URL: https://democracy.dacorum.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=2624

Decision Maker: Strategic Director - Neighbourhood Operations

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose: Background The Bereavement Services Manager has been off work due to long-term sickness since April 2025. The role is key to ensuring the smooth operations of the Council’s cemeteries (five in total) and ensuring the Council complies with the relevant burial legislation. In order to ensure business continuity, the Council approached the Institute of Cemetery and Crematorium Management (ICCM) to initially see whether they could provide interim/consultancy cover for the role; they were unable to do so. Lee Snashfold Crematoria Management and Consultancy Ltd were identified as a specialist agency offering qualified and experienced cemetery staff cover. Lee Snashfold Crematoria Management and Consultancy Ltd were able to place an experience Bereavement Services Manager with the Council who has been working with us since late July 2025. As well as providing cover for the Bereavement Services Manager role, they have also assisted with the updating of the Cemetery Rules and Regulations and putting in place service improvements aim at improving the resilience of the service and enhancing the service we offer to customers Reason The total contract value exceeds the Council’s tender threshold of £83,333 ex. VAT and the Public Contract Regulations threshold. However, the risk of challenge is low, and should be balanced against the risk of not extending the contract at this time and the associated service and reputational risk.

Content:

Date of Decision: May 19, 2026