Agenda item

The Joint Committee considered a joint report of the Corporate Director of Neighbourhoods and Climate Change and the Corporate Director of Resources and Treasurer to the Joint Committee which set out details of a proposed mid-year increase in cremation fees for the Central Durham Crematorium for 2024/25, as agreed at the January 2024 meeting of the Joint Committee (for copy see file of minutes).

The Finance Manager, Neighbourhoods and Climate Change advised that benchmarking with other crematoriums across the region showed that 2024/25 cremation fees at Durham were £162 lower than the average for the region and this gap had widening over recent years. Fee increases were usually only implemented in April, however, a mid-year fee increase of £80 effective from 1 October 2024 was proposed to help prevent the gap from widening further. It was noted that Durham fees would still be £82 below the regional average. 

The charges for direct cremations and discounted earlier slots to allow for choice and help families with cheaper options were proposed to remain the same for 2024/25.

The Joint Committee discussed the proposed increase and the varying levels of options available. It was felt that the proposed increase of £80 (9.70%) would put too much pressure on families that were already struggling in some of the most deprived areas of the country.

The Finance Manager, Neighbourhoods and Climate Change reiterated that there would be no increase to the discounted earlier slot and direct cremations which would help families and allow for choice. He added that the increase would help to reduce the gap from widening as other facilities would be increasing charges further and it would provide stability for the crematorium and help alleviate financial pressures with regards to new initiatives.

The Chair advised that the gap had almost doubled in recent years which was almost 20% behind the regional average. He added that Durham Crematorium provided a good quality service and value for money, however was concerned that the low cost could be perceived as providing a substandard service if fees fall too far behind other facilities. The percentage of cremation costs in terms of the overall funeral cost and the importance of determining the right balance was noted.

Councillors proposed that the increase be reduced to £50 (6.06%) which was agreed by the Joint Committee.

Resolved:

i)           That an increase of £50 per cremation from £825 to £875 (inclusive of £30 medical referee fee) be approved;

ii)          That off peak slots (£715) and direct cremations (£660 attended and £520 unattended) remain the same for 2024/25 to support choice and help with overall funeral costs;

iii)         That the fee increase be reflected in the forecast of outturn for Durham Crematorium which would be reported to the September 2024 meeting of the Joint Committee;

iv)        That plans for the use of the additional income be considered at the September 2024 meeting, alongside the Budget Strategy report which was supported by the SAMP (Service Asset Management Plan).