Adopt a Grave

Richmond is the first council to launch a scheme such as this. Whilst council staff maintain the overall appearance of the cemeteries, it is simply not possible to weed, plant or water individual plots. It is hoped that people who may already visit a cemetery on a regular basis may give a little time and attention to help restore graves, or to look after a grave.

Many people, groups and organisations have already been involved in this initiative. For example, private adoptees, schools, Scouts movements, Princes Trust workers, Royal Engineers and the 57 Olpherts Battery.  

There are many graves of people of note which could be adopted, for example the grave of R.D.Blackmore, who wrote Lorna Doone, could be adopted by a class at a school, led by a History or English lesson. Some memorials are unusual, with sculptures of Jesus, or animals, and some memorials which are placed at the pathsides of main entrances could be improved to provide the most visual impact.

How you can help

You may wish to plant new bulbs or plants on a grave, and keep it weed free; you could water existing plants, or wash the memorial occasionally. People who are unable to get involved could still help by donating to the scheme, and any money raised will be used to make repairs, or buy new plants.

Many people who would like to tend their family graves may be unable to do so due to illness or distance. It would give loved ones that extra peace of mind to know that their grave is being cared for.

The cemetery office will send you a form to ask you how you would like to help. The records will be checked to see if a registered Owner is alive.  If so, they will need to give their permission before the grave is adopted. Any memorial on the grave will be checked to make sure it is safe before the grave can be adopted. Once these checks have been made, the adoption can go ahead.

Victoria Cross graves

The graves of five holders of the Victoria Cross have been restored to their former glory.

Getting involved

If you would like to get involved, or would like a family grave adopted, please contact the Cemetery Office or the Environment Trust for Richmond Upon Thames.