Issue - meetings

The Bereavement Services Manager presented a report seeking approval of the fees and charges for the crematorium from 1 January 2023 and approval for delegated authority to be given to the Manager to introduce an “Energy Cost Surcharge” according to any increases in Gas and Electricity Prices over and above what has been budgeted for.

The recommendations were;

·        To approve Fees and Charges for 2023 according to Appendix A of the officer’s report

·        To introduce a new Band A – Direct Cremation (Unattended) Fee of £385.00

·        To introduce Band B – Direct Cremation (Attended) Fee of £485.00

·        To introduce ‘Cancellation of Cremation Service Fee Within 2 Working Days’ of £100.00

·        To introduce an ‘Out of Time’ Penalty, remitted to the waiting family of £100.00

·        Delegated Authority be given for the Manager to introduce an “Energy Cost Surchage”during 2023 but with suitable notice given to Funeral Director’s before any surcharge is made. Any decision will be taken in consultation with the Treasurer, Chair of the Committee and Lead Authority Service Director

It was noted that the fees had been based on a robust estimate of the impact of cost increases and demand within the services and the Committee’s overall financial position.  It was estimated that, should the recommended Fees and Charges be approved, an additional £150,000 income would be raised in the 2023/24 Financial Year. The Standard Cremation Fee would raise by around 10% from £830.00 to £905.00.

Members sought clarification on the proposed new fees and how they would be introduced.  The Bereavement Services Manager confirmed details of each proposed fee and what the next steps would be.

Councillor Holmes questioned the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) study into the funerals market in the UK and proposed a freeze on current charges.

RESOLVED –

That all recommendations detailed in the officer’s report from paragraphs 2.1 to 2.6 be approved.

Councillor Holmes requested that his vote against the recommendation at paragraph 2.1 be recorded.

REASON FOR DECISION –

To ensure sufficient funds to maintain high levels of standards for the bereaved, reach a balanced budget and to maintain sufficient reserve levels to meet any future pressures.