The Central Durham Crematorium Joint Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 28 January 2026 to discuss a range of financial and operational matters for the upcoming year. Key topics include the crematorium's performance, financial monitoring, support services, fees and charges, and the revenue and capital budgets for 2026/27. The committee will also review the Internal Audit Charter.

Quarterly Performance and Operational Report

The committee will receive an update on the crematorium's performance and operational matters for the period of September to December 2025. This report, presented by Graham Harrison, Bereavement Services Manager & Registrar, details the number of cremations undertaken, comparing figures to the same period in the previous year. It also outlines the sales of memorial plaques, showing an increase in both the number sold and the income generated. Operational matters to be discussed include staffing, the continued success of the Green Flag Award, and the recycling of metals scheme. The report also seeks a decision on whether to revise the terms and conditions to allow plastic, silk, or artificial flowers.

Financial Monitoring Report

A financial monitoring report will be presented, detailing the provisional outturn position for the financial year 2025/26 up to 31 December 2025, and projecting the revenue and capital outturn for the year ending 31 March 2026. Jointly reported by Mark Jackson, Corporate Director of Neighbourhoods and Environment, and Paul Darby, Corporate Director of Resources and Treasurer, the report indicates a projected revenue surplus of £1,307,995, which is £63,941 more than budgeted. The report also details the forecast position of the Joint Committee's funds and reserves, which are projected to be £2,898,070 at the year-end.

Provision of Support Services 2026/27

The committee will consider a proposed Service Level Agreement (SLA) for support services to be provided by Durham County Council for the period April 2026 to March 2027. This SLA covers essential functions including Management Services, Financial Services, Administration Services, Creditor Services, Payroll Services, and Human Resources Services. The proposed charge for 2026/27 is £43,576, representing a 4.0% increase on the previous year's recharge, which takes into account pay and price inflation.

Fees and Charges 2026/27

A report will be presented outlining proposed fees and charges for the Central Durham Crematorium for 2026/27. The proposals include an increase in cremation charges by £50, bringing the fee to £1,025, which is noted as being £15 above the current regional average but expected to remain among the lowest compared to neighbouring facilities. Other fees and charges, including those for the Book of Remembrance and memorial plaques, are also proposed for increase, with some fees remaining unchanged to maintain competitiveness.

2026/27 Revenue and Capital Budgets

Proposals for the 2026/27 revenue and capital budgets for the Central Durham Crematorium will be presented for consideration. The proposed revenue budget includes increases for employee costs, premises, supplies and services, and support service costs. The income budget has been increased, primarily due to a projected rise in cremation fees following the approved increase. The capital budget will be financed through reserves, with a significant portion allocated to cremator re-lining. The report also details the projected level of reserves at 31 March 2027.

Internal Audit Charter

The committee will be asked to approve the Internal Audit Charter, which defines the purpose, authority, and responsibility of the Internal Audit Service. This updated charter reflects changes in the Global Internal Audit Standards and CIPFA's Code of Practice for the Governance of Internal Audit in UK Local Government. The charter outlines the service's commitment to adhering to these standards, its mandate, and its reporting relationships, ensuring independent and objective assurance on governance, risk management, and internal controls.