Caring for a
loved one's grave

We understand how important it is to tend the grave of a loved one. For many, visiting the churchyard is part of the ongoing journey of grief—a time to remember, reflect, and feel connected. We want St Laurence Churchyard to be a place where such care and remembrance can happen with peace and dignity.

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Because our churchyard is a shared sacred space, there are simple but essential guidelines in place. These follow the national guidance of the Church of England, as adopted by the Diocese of Worcester. They are designed to uphold beauty, safety, biodiversity, and the dignity of all who are remembered here.

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Our PCC has also adopted a Churchyard Policy, which will be available to download on this page shortly. It outlines how we aim to keep these guidelines fairly and consistently.

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Grave Ownership and Responsibility

While each memorial belongs to the family of the deceased, the land remains the legal property of the Church—held by the Incumbent and Parochial Church Council (PCC). Families are responsible for the safety and upkeep of any approved headstone or flower container.

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Please note: Where items are placed on graves that do not comply with national guidelines, this is done at the family's own risk.

 

The PCC cannot accept responsibility for any damage, breakage, theft, or removal of such items—whether caused by weather, wildlife, maintenance work, or other visitors.

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Why These Guidelines Matter

These rules are not designed to restrict your grief or personal expression. Rather, they exist to ensure that the churchyard remains:

• Safe and accessible for all who visit

• Easier to maintain with dignity and consistency

• A haven for nature and biodiversity, especially birds, insects, and small animals

• Protected from hazards, such as sharp broken glass or loose ornaments

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We know that each act of remembrance comes from love. These guidelines help us care for every grave—and the people who visit them—with fairness and kindness.

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Summary of Key Guidelines

Here is a gentle overview of what is permitted:

• The area in front of a headstone should be left grassed, with no planting, edging, or stone chippings.

• Only fresh flowers are allowed. Artificial, silk, or plastic flowers should not be placed.

• Any vase must be either part of the approved headstone design or a removable container fully sunk into the ground (and within size limits).

• Ornaments and decorative items, including lights, statues, toys, or wind chimes, are not permitted and may be removed without notice.

• Glass containers or reflective objects are not allowed due to the risk of injury and breakage.

 

For full details, please see the diocesan booklet:
Churchyard Memorials: A Guide for the Bereaved

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Let’s Talk

We know that these matters can be sensitive, especially when grief is fresh or traditions feel deeply personal. If you are unsure whether a memorial, object, or practice is permitted—or if something already placed may not comply—please do speak to us. We are here to walk with you.

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Contact the Church Office: church-beoleyandalvechurch@outlook.com / 0121 447 7955
Or speak with the Vicar or a Churchwarden.

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Churchyard Policy (coming soon)

We will shortly upload our full Churchyard Policy, which sets out how the PCC seeks to apply national guidelines with pastoral sensitivity and consistency.

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Together, may we continue to make our churchyard a place of peace, respect, and shared care for all who rest and remember here.