Exhumation
Exhumation is the removal of human remains from their place of
interment. The need to exhume is not a common occurrence and is
only allowed in exceptional circumstances. However, when
exhumation is required then it will be carried out with the
greatest dignity and respect and with all the necessary legal
licences and documentation duly completed.
Reasons why exhumations are required
There are a number of reasons why exhumation may be required.
Recent exhumations from the City of Carlisle
have been carried out because burials have taken
place and the family have been unhappy with the location or have
decided that they would prefer a full sized grave rather than a
cremated remains grave.
Licences to exhume
It is an offence to disturb human remains (human remains include
cremated remains) without the correct lawful
permissions. The Ministry of Justice decide
applications for exhumation licences.
Which licence to use depends on the location of the grave, i.e.
whether it is located in a consecrated or non-consecrated area of
the cemetery. Under certain circumstances both of the above
licences may be required before an exhumation can take place.
How to arrange an exhumation
The first step is to contact Bereavement Services and we will
advise what legal documentation and what permissions need to be
obtained. Application must normally be made by the next of
kin of the deceased, or with the written authority of the next of
kin attached to the application. The registered owner of the grave
if not the next of kin must also give written permission for the
exhumation to take place. If there is more than one
registered grave owner then all owners must give written
permission.
Apply for
a Single Exhumation
Once all the legal documentation has been obtained, permissions
by the grave owners, any fees paid (an exhumation fee is provided
on application), a time and date will be set by us in liaison with
an outside company who specialise in exhumations (only necessary
for body exhumations) cremated remains exhumation will be carried
out by Carlisle City Council employees.
The day of exhumation
Exhumations take place early in the morning before the cemetery
is open. This is for the sake of decency and also health and
safety.
An environmental health officer for the area (City of Carlisle)
will attend any full body exhumation. Should the EHO decide that
the removal of the coffin is a health hazard he/she may stop the
exhumation.
A personal representative appointed by the next of kin/applicant
may witness exhumation.
