Agenda item

The Bereavement Services Manager, Graham Harrison asked Members to note the performance figures from April 2013 to May 2013 and the comparison to the same period for 2012, highlighting that there was a net increase of 28 cremations, with a total of 393, with 115 from Durham and 278 from outside of the area.

Members were also asked to note that the number of memorials sold had increased in comparison to the same period the previous year, with sales being £5,937.05 greater than the comparable period last year. 

The Joint Committee was informed that the vacant position of Superintendent and Registrar had been advertised internally at both Authorities and as no suitable applications were received the position was advertised externally through the usual channels and trade press with the deadline for applications being 4 July 2013.  Members noted that the interview process, involving both the Chair and Vice-Chair on behalf of the Joint Committee, would begin the 11 July 2013.  The Bereavement Services Manager referred to the last meeting of the Joint Committee where it was agreed for a Business Administration Apprentice post to be established.  It was explained that the job description for the role had been completed and recruitment would take place during July.

The Joint Committee noted that arrangements had been made for the Chair, Vice-Chair and the Bereavement Services Manager to attend the Institute of Cemetery and Cremation Management (ICCM) Learning Convention and Exhibition 2013 being held 30 September – 2 October 2013 at the Forest Pines Hotel, North Lincolnshire.

The Bereavement Services Manager noted the presentation in February by the then Chairman of the Durham County Council, Councillor L Marshall, of the Chairman’s Medal, to Geoffrey Gregg, who had played the organ at the Crematorium Chapel on a voluntary basis, most Sunday afternoons for the last 16 years.

The Joint Committee were informed of the Open Evening held on 20 May 2013, which served as an opportunity to thank the outgoing Superintendent and Registrar, Alan José for his 24 years of service to the Crematorium and to provide information on the proposals as regards the Crematorium moving forward to Funeral Directors, Clergy and Funeral Celebrants.

Resolved:

That the Joint Committee note:

(i)         The update report in relation to current performance of the         Crematorium.

(ii)        The update as regards the current recruitment exercises.

(iii)       The arrangements for representation at the ICCM Conference.

(iv)       The award of the Durham County Council’s Chairman’s Medal to Geoffrey Gregg.