The Mountsett Crematorium Joint Committee meeting scheduled for Monday 29 June 2026 was set to review the crematorium's financial performance, governance, and operational matters. Key discussions were expected to include the annual internal audit report, changes to the committee's constitution, and the forward plan for the upcoming year.

Annual Internal Audit Report 2025/26

The committee was scheduled to consider the Annual Internal Audit Report for the financial year 2025/26. This report, prepared by the Chief Internal Auditor and Corporate Fraud Manager, provides an opinion on the adequacy and effectiveness of the Joint Committee's framework of governance, risk management, and control. The report indicated a Moderate overall assurance opinion, suggesting that while there is a basically sound system of control, some weaknesses exist that expose objectives to risk. The report recommended that members note its content and the provided opinion.

Changes to the Constitution/Terms of Reference

A report from the Clerk to the Joint Committee was scheduled to detail a review of the Mountsett Crematorium Joint Committee's Constitution. This review is conducted annually in accordance with the requirements of the Annual Governance Statement. The report indicated that the existing constitution, last updated on 3 July 2019, reflects the constituent legal titles, expenditure, and surplus distribution arrangements on a 65/35 basis between Durham County Council and Gateshead Council, respectively. The review had not highlighted any requirements for change, and the report recommended reaffirming the continuation of the existing constitution and governance arrangements.

Forward Plan 2026/27

The Corporate Director of Resources and Treasurer to the Joint Committee was set to present a suggested forward plan for the Joint Committee's meetings for the forthcoming year, 2026/27. This plan outlines a proposed schedule of meetings and the reports that will be presented at each, including those for the next Annual General Meeting in June 2027. Members were asked to note and approve this proposed schedule.

Quarterly Performance and Operational Report

The Bereavement Services Manager and Registrar was scheduled to provide an update on performance and operational matters for the period of 1 April to 31 May 2026. This report was expected to detail the number of cremations undertaken during this period, comparing it to the same period in the previous year, and provide a breakdown of the geographical origin of the families served. It was also to report on the number and value of memorial plaques sold and address staffing issues, including proposals for a team leader role and a transition from casual contracts to annual hours contracts for crematorium attendants. Additionally, the report was to cover attendance at the Institute of Cemetery and Crematorium Management (ICCM) Learning Convention and Exhibition 2026.

Annual Governance Statement 2025/26

A joint report from the Corporate Director of Neighbourhoods and Environment and the Corporate Director of Resources and Treasurer was to present the Annual Governance Statement (AGS) for the year April 2025 to March 2026. This statement demonstrates how the Joint Committee complies with the Accounts and Audit Regulations 2015 regarding the annual review of its system of internal control. The AGS is based on seven assertions relating to good governance, financial management, and internal control. The report noted that the annual Internal Audit report provided a Moderate overall assurance opinion, indicating some weaknesses that expose objectives to risk, and that plans are in place to address these concerns. Members were recommended to note the content of the AGS and approve it as part of the consideration of the Joint Committee's Annual Return.

Revenue Outturn and Joint Committees Annual Return for the Financial Year Ended 31 March 2026

This joint report from the Corporate Director of Neighbourhoods and Environment and the Corporate Director of Resources and Treasurer was to present the Joint Committee's Annual Return for the financial year ended 31 March 2026, along with details of the final outturn position against approved budgets. The report indicated a surplus of £595,267 against a budgeted surplus of £420,132, which was £175,135 more than budgeted. It also detailed the funds and reserves of the Joint Committee at the end of the financial year, showing total reserves and balances of £1,096,588. Members were recommended to note the revenue outturn position and approve the Annual Governance Statement and Accounting Statements as part of the Annual Governance and Accountability Return.