Provision of public funeral service

The London Borough of Camden ('the Council') is seeking to award a contract for the provision of Public Funeral Services. Personal Finance Service administers the Public Funeral Services which is an externally focussed, statutory service, for the burial or cremation of persons whose demise is within the boundary of Camden and where no next of kin exists, or is willing or able, to arrange, or fund a funeral. There are approximately 120 funerals per annum which are covered by the Public Health Act 1984 (Control of Diseases). If the deceased leaves no estate (funds) the Local Authority bears this cost under its statutory duty. Camden Officers instruct the appointed funeral director to arrange a public funeral. The demands on the service vary from year to year. Referrals come from Coroners, hostels, General Practitioners Surgeries, Camden hospitals - UCLH, Royal Free, National Hospital, Marie Curie hospice, social workers and residential homes. There are approximately 120 funerals per annum which are covered by the Public Health Act 1984 (Control of Diseases).