Agenda item

The Area Council Manager introduced the item, referring to the changes in staff delivering the Advice Services contract.  Recruitment for the generalist advisor had taken place and the incoming member of staff had experience working within Mexborough CAB. The outgoing member of staff, Zoe Ellis-Georgiou, had secured a more permanent position within CAB Barnsley.  Members gave thanks for her commitment to the service, and it was agreed that this be put in writing.

Sessions in Wombwell and Hoyland continued to be oversubscribed, though there remained space in Darfield.  It was noted that further consideration would be given to the venue and time of the session held in Darfield.  Members heard of the increase in clients presenting with mental health and physical disabilities, and discussed possible reasons for this.   Also noted were the high numbers of those attending who were in work.

Members considered the performance against the Tidy Team contract, noting that additional resources were still being deployed in order to engage businesses.  Members heard how the steering group had been poorly attended, and that the next meeting of the steering group would consider winter planning and scheduling. It was agreed that details of this be circulated to all Members.

Those present discussed the issue of litter associated with food outlets located near Junction 36.  Despite efforts by Kingdom Enforcement and the Tidy Team, the area continued to be problematic.  It was suggested that a more strategic approach be considered, and that a group be convened to consider the issue in more detail.

Members noted the changes in staff in relation to the contract with Kingdom Security, and those present heard how the service had recently been very responsive to requests from the Area Team.

RECOMMENDATION:-

(i)            that the report be noted;

(ii)          That a letter of thanks be given to Zoe Ellis-Georgiou in recognition of her commitment whilst employed as part of the Advice Service in the South Area;

(iii)         That details of the next Tidy Team steering group be circulated to all Members;

(iv)         That a group be convened to consider the issue of litter from food outlets near Junction 36 in more detail.