Rev. Kevin Leavesley, MTheol (Hons), MSBP (Acc)
KL Ceremonies
Originally from Ilkley, West Yorkshire, I was awarded my MTheol (Hons) degree by the University of St. Andrews in 2000. My ministry was based at Middlesbrough Baptist Church, Cambridge Road from 2001-2010 (I was ordained as a Baptist minister in May 2009) and, from 2008-2010, I served as an honorary chaplain at The James Cook University Hospital, Middlesbrough.
Now independent of any church or denomination (no longer a Baptist minister) I focus all of my time on funeral services and bereavement care and, having conducted almost 4500 funeral services, I am very experienced in working with those who have been bereaved in a wide range of contexts.
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My most recent training has included the spiritual and pastoral care of dying people and their families.
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In April 2012 I was elected to Professional Membership (now Accredited Membership) of the Society of Bereavement Practitioners - MSBP (Acc). This indicates not only a high level of personal achievement and expertise but also a commitment to the highest professional standards and personal integrity.
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I attended the First National Convention for Celebrants in September 2017.
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At the Second Convention (September 2018) I attended a Dementia Friends Information Session and signed up as a Dementia Friend, agreeing to help tell people about this initiative. If you would like to find out more then please click on the Dementia Friends logo here ...
In 2022 I became a member of the International College of Professional Celebrants. As well as providing me with practical business support and celebrant resources, as well as connection and interaction with other celebrants, this gives me insurance cover, as detailed on the Documents page.
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I am a season ticket holder at Middlesbrough Football Club and on a quest to see Boro play at all of the current 92 league grounds ... 60 so far, so I'm almost two thirds of the way through. I enjoy walking long distance footpaths. I am a competent pianist (having been awarded a distinction in my ABRSM Grade 8). For a number of years I have been learning Spanish. My latest venture, together with my wife, is our 'County Countdown' - aiming to visit all 48 ceremonial counties of England whilst we are both 48.
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Now based near to Yarm, I am available to help families and work with funeral directors mainly across Teesside, North Yorkshire and County Durham.