Agenda item

The Area Council Manager introduced the item, drawing attention to Part A of the report, which provided a cumulative overview of performance.  Noted were the indicators relating to the ‘Improving our local environment’, which now included those relating to the service provided by the Private Sector Housing Officer.

Members noted the income from enforcement activity, and that this had to be spent according to guidelines set by DEFRA.  A number of Members mentioned that they knew of projects that could potentially benefit from this finance.

The meeting then considered Part B of the report which provided an update on each of the contracted services. 

It was noted that the new contract for advice services would commence 1^st July, 2017 and would be delivered by Citizen’s Advice Bureau, who would be employing a welfare rights worker directly.  It was hoped that there would be minimal disruption between contracts. 

The meeting discussed whether variations could be made to where the advice sessions were held.  It was noted that for this to be considered, there would need to be a proven need in the area in question, and access to an appropriate venue.

Members went on to consider the Tidy Team 2 contract, which had been in operation since 1^st August, 2016. Within the quarter the team had engaged with 97 new volunteers, 45 of these were adults and 52 were young people.

Members commented on the responsive and high quality service provided by the Tidy Team, praise was also given for their work supporting apprenticeships. 

The meeting noted that there were significant demands placed on the team, and it was essential to ensure the service was used appropriately. Members discussed the increase in fly tipping across the borough, and the need for this to be reported through the correct channels.  It was suggested that contact details for reporting could be included in a future edition of the community magazine, and be distributed via social media.

Members noted the more recent statistics relating to the contract with Kingdom Security, with 2,120 Fixed Penalty Notices and 619 Parking Charge Notices issued since the inception of the service.

It was noted that the contract with C&K Careers was still in operation, and that the destinations of young people would be reported in autumn, 2017.

With regards to the Private Sector Housing Enforcement Officer, the meeting heard how the service was making a positive impact, supporting landlords and tenants.  To date there had been 47 requests for service, and 35% of households engaged had been identified as vulnerable.

It was noted that the service had been rated as ‘Amber’ in relation to outcome indicator targets met, however it was recognised that the targets were stretching.   Feedback from Members in relation to the service was extremely positive, and qualitative feedback on the work of the officer was encouraged to provide a balanced view of performance.

RESOLVED that the report be received.