Published: Wednesday, 20th May 2026
Mintlyn Crematorium, owned and operated by the Borough Council, has donated £17,000 to the 8:56 Foundation — the largest contribution it has ever awarded through the national ICCM scheme.
The funding will support the charity’s ongoing work to improve men’s mental health across West Norfolk.
Cllr Simon Ring, Deputy Leader and Cabinet member for Business, said:
“The 8:56 Foundation delivers invaluable, life‑changing work across West Norfolk, supporting men who are struggling with their mental health. Their focus on reducing suicide rates, breaking the stigma around mental health, and tackling loneliness is making a real difference in our communities.
“I’m proud that we can make this contribution — the largest ever through this scheme — during Mental Health Awareness Month. This funding will directly strengthen the support they provide and help more men access the help they need.”
Abbie Panks, Trustee of the 8:56 Foundation, said:
“We are incredibly grateful to Mintlyn Crematorium for this generous donation, which will enable us to provide 485 additional therapy sessions for men who need them. Every session represents a chance for someone to feel heard, supported, and guided through some of the toughest moments of their lives. This contribution will have a profound and lasting impact on the wellbeing of local men and their families.”
Twice a year, ICCM invites its members to nominate local organisations for funding. Mintlyn Crematorium has now donated more than £215,000 through this scheme and selected the 8:56 Foundation — a King’s Lynn charity dedicated to reducing suicide rates, breaking the stigma of mental health, and combating loneliness.
The donation is made possible through a national charitable scheme run by the Institute of Cemetery and Crematorium Management (ICCM). With the consent of bereaved families, metals recovered following cremation are recycled, and the proceeds are distributed to local charities that support people affected by bereavement or terminal illness.