West Wiltshire Crematorium’s new manager feels privileged
The new site manager of West Wiltshire Crematorium, near Trowbridge, says she feels privileged to be able to serve local families and be at the heart of the community.
The role is Louise Belsey’s first job with Westerleigh Group, the UK’s largest owner and operator of crematoria and cemeteries, with 35 sites in England, Scotland and Wales, all set within beautifully-landscaped gardens of remembrance which provide pleasant, peaceful places for people to visit and reflect.
Louise brings more than 20 years’ management experience, in both the public and private sector, to her new job, including work with Avon Fire & Rescue Service, the NHS, Gatwick Airport and the Co-operative Group.
This is her first role in the bereavement sector but she is excited about the future.
She said: “At each stage of the recruitment process, Westerleigh’s staff were so friendly and helpful that I found I wanted the role more as I progressed through it.
“I have a strong interest in communications and engagement, learning and development and I am really keen that West Wiltshire Crematorium uses its position at the heart of the community positively.
“This year is the 25th anniversary of this crematorium’s opening, and I want to encourage local groups and charities to get in touch to see if we are able to assist them in any way.”
As far as the core business of the crematorium is concerned, Louise said: “It is a privilege to be able to assist families during very difficult times for them and do everything we can as a team to help the service be as personal as it can be.
“This is a role with great responsibility but I believe it will also be rewarding.”
As she settles into her new job, she said: “I’d like to get a lot more involved in the local community.
“I’m so lucky that our ten acres of grounds are well established, looked after with great care, and provide beautiful places for people to come and sit and remember their loved ones.
“I’m looking forward to working within the team, collaborating with local funeral directors and, most importantly, providing exceptional levels of service to the bereaved and everyone else visiting our site.
“West Wiltshire is one of the oldest crematoriums in Westerleigh Group, with over 2000 families in its care each year. In addition to our day to day work of supporting the bereaved families, we are proud to support many local charities with donations. I am looking forward to being able to resume face-to-face services, with our special Christmas event and, in the new year, Covid-permitting, tours of the crematorium. I’m very proud to be working for Westerleigh Group.”
