Minutes:
Neil Spencer and Andy Hodgkinson were welcomed to the meeting to update Members on the work of Hoyland Milton and Rockingham Ward Alliance.
The presentation focused on the work to deliver winter warmer packs to those in fuel poverty. In addition support was given to refer individuals to the One Stop Shop for additional advice regarding benefits, and a ‘pop up’ session with Barnsley Citizen’s Advice Bureau was arranged to support changing fuel suppliers.
The project delivered 500 packs to those in the wards with an income of less than £7,000 per annum, and at least 27 volunteers were engaged as part of the initiative.
Initially data was used the Research and Intelligence Team to identify those, in, or at risk of, fuel poverty, but this had to be enhanced with local intelligence when the available data sources did not provide sufficiently accurate information.
The response from recipients was positive, with many saying they were lonely and appreciated the company. It also allowed volunteers to have a discussion with residents and gather intelligence about the area. It was stressed that the project helped to show that the Council cared about its residents.
Members heard how plans were being developed to undertake a similar initiative this winter, which was likely to be around tackling the social isolation, an issue which was identified by volunteers throughout the project.
RESOLVED:-
(i) That thanks be given for the presentation;
(ii) That loneliness and isolation in the South Area be an item for discussion on a future agenda.