Newcastle Council to inspect gravestones to prevent public injury in cemeteries

Trained council staff will be carrying out assessments on all gravestones over two feet tall assessing the condition and identifying any defects. 

The work involves staff carrying out a gentle hand push test to ensure the memorials are secure, which the Council stresses is in line with government safety guidance.

The inspections follow high profile tragic cases across the UK where children have been seriously injured or killed when an unstable gravestone has toppled over.

The work involves staff carrying out a gentle hand push test to ensure the memorials are secure. Photograph: Newcastle City Council

In September 2025, the parents of four-year-old Eli Testa, who died after a gravestone fell on him, called for the law to be changed so headstones are laid flat.

Cllr Peter Lovatt, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods and Local Services, said: “National legislation on this matter is clear and there have been some tragic cases elsewhere in the country that show the importance of these inspections.

“We have a duty of care to all visitors, as well as our colleagues who tend to these sites, and if such a tragedy took place in our cemeteries questions would be asked.

“That is why we are carrying out these important inspections and taking the necessary action should any headstones need to be repaired.”

The Council has put out a public call to reassure residents that inspections will be carried out with respect and sensitivity. Although the programme has been ongoing for the past three years, Lovatt said they wanted to now communicate with residents the reasons for the tests.

“In the past, seeing gravestones laid down in our city’s cemeteries has led to residents raising concerns and we understand it can be upsetting for families,” said Lovatt.

Any headstones that need to be repaired will be supported by wooden stakes and bands to keep them stable.

Staff will also place temporary notices on the memorial asking the plot holder to contact the council’s bereavement service.

“We know how important and personal the final resting place of a loved one is to people, and we’re keen to make sure residents can pay their respects safely across our cemeteries,” added Lovatt.