Agenda item

The Joint Committee received a report of the Bereavement Services Manager and Registrar which provided an update relating to performance and other operational matters (for copy see file of minutes).

The Finance Manager, Neighbourhoods and Climate Change reported that 405 cremations were undertaken during the period 1 April to 31 May 2024 which was an increase in 30 cremations compared to the comparable period last year. It was noted that 118 families were from Durham, 14 from Spennymoor and 273 families were from other areas.

The number and value of memorial plaques sold were 47 / £11,891 compared to 41 / £10,347 in the comparable period last year, an increase of 6 memorials sold and £1,544 in terms of income.

As in previous years, arrangements would be made for representation at the Institute of Cemetery and Crematorium Management ICCM Learning Convention and Exhibition which was being held at Chesford Grange Hotel, near Kenilworth from the 23-25 September 2024. It was proposed that the Bereavement Services Manager and the Chair attend the conference to represent the Central Durham Crematorium Joint Committee.

Durham Crematorium had been part of the Durham Heritage Open Weekend for several years and had agreed to participate this year which would be held from 12-15 September 2024.

With regards to the recycling of metals scheme, the nominated charities for 2024 were the Bradley Lowery Foundation and the British Heart Foundation. 

Members were advised at the last meeting, that they were in the process of implementing a new software system, PlotBox, to replace the existing BACAS system which would go live in October 2024. Durham County were currently in the process of transferring them to Oracle which would provide improvements in the way the crematorium operate, standardise reporting and increase efficiency.  

Following the implementation of Plotbox, it was recommended that the Crematorium also move from using Sage as their financial system to using the Oracle system. Plotbox could then be fully integrated with Oracle for the crematorium, as well as the Burials Team, who already used the system. A 2025/26 implementation date for the Oracle system would allow time for bedding in the Plotbox system and reduce pressure on crematorium staff. A progress update would be provided at a future meeting.

Responding to a query regarding financial implication in relation to the integration of the Oracle system, the Finance Manager, Neighbourhoods and Climate Change advised that any costs would be absorbed by the existing system, therefore there would be no additional costs.

Resolved:

i)             That the current performance of the crematorium be noted;

ii)            That attendance at the Institute of Cemetery and Crematorium Management ICCM Learning Convention and Exhibition 2024 be noted;

iii)           That the date of the Heritage Open Weekend be noted;

iv)          That the distribution of recycling income and subsequent charity nominations be noted;

v)            That the financial integration of the Crematorium onto Durham County Council’s Oracle software system in 2025/26 be approved.