The Central Durham Crematorium Joint Committee meeting on 28 June 2024 covered several key topics, including the quarterly performance and operational report, financial monitoring, and an update on the risk register. The committee also discussed the annual internal audit report and addressed a letter regarding the potential sale of the crematorium.

Quarterly Performance and Operational Report

The Bereavement Services Manager and Registrar presented the Quarterly Performance and Operational Report, noting that 677 cremations were carried out between 1 January and 31 March 2024. This figure represents a decrease of 65 cremations compared to the same period last year. The total number of cremations for the fiscal year 2023/24 was 2,433, down from 2,513 in 2022/23. Despite this, the actual number of cremations exceeded the budgeted assumption of 2,200, resulting in an overachievement of cremation fee income by £137,234.

The report also highlighted an increase in direct cremations, with 138 conducted in 2023/24, up by 36 from the previous year. The number of memorial plaques sold decreased slightly, with 82 plaques sold generating £23,274, compared to 97 plaques and £26,798 the previous year.

Staffing updates included the departure of a casual relief crematorium attendant and the appointment of two new casual relief attendants who began their duties on 2 April 2024. Additionally, the crematorium is transitioning to a new software provider, Plotbox, which is expected to be fully operational by September 2024.

In response to a query from Town Councillor D Ranyard about the new software, the Bereavement Services Manager confirmed that training had been provided. Town Councillor C Maddison asked whether direct cremations impacted the crematorium's operations. The Bereavement Services Manager clarified that direct cremations are scheduled for earlier time slots and do not affect regular service times, with additional fees applicable for extra services.

Financial Monitoring Report - Provisional Outturn as at 31 March 2024

The committee reviewed the Financial Monitoring Report presented by the Corporate Director of Neighbourhoods and Climate Change and the Corporate Director of Resources. The report detailed the provisional outturn position for 2023/24 and projected reserves and balances as of 31 March 2024.

Town Councillor D Ranyard inquired about the halted improvement work on the garden fountain. The Bereavement Services Manager explained that Northumbrian Water had stopped the work due to additional compliance requirements and higher-than-expected costs for a new fountain.

Risk Register Update 2023/24 Review 2

The committee received an update on the Risk Register from the Corporate Director of Neighbourhoods and Climate Change and the Corporate Director of Resources. The half-yearly risk review conducted in March 2024 was discussed, and the updated position was noted.

Annual Internal Audit Report 2023/24

The Chief Internal Auditor and Corporate Fraud Manager presented the Annual Internal Audit Report, which provided a 'Substantial' overall assurance opinion on the adequacy and effectiveness of the committee's governance, risk management, and internal control arrangements for 2023/24. The report concluded that a sound system of control was in place.

Letter Regarding Potential Sale

The committee was informed of a letter received inquiring about the purchase of the crematorium. The Bereavement Services Manager responded to the letter, stating that the crematorium was not for sale.