Agenda item

The Area Council Manager introduced the item reminding members that the information related to quarter one, as information relating to quarter two was still being processed.

In relation to an overview of performance, Members were reminded that providers had to alter their delivery in light of the pandemic.  However, the outcomes being delivered were commendable.  A number of areas of success were highlighted including that four business had been engaged in improving their local environment, three full time jobs had been created, and 14 people had received training through virtual means. 

Members were reminded that the report featured the first quarter of the new contract with Twiggs Grounds Maintenance.  Though restrictions due to Covid-19 had impacted on the work, the team had engaged with groups, Parish Councils and Businesses.  Support had also been provided to Neighbourhood Services cleaning up targeted areas and others identified as needing some attention.

Support had been provided in innovative ways, often through the use of technology, and consideration was being given to establishing an equipment bank in order for volunteers to have access to the relevant tools.  Members noted how appreciative the community were for the continued hard work of the team.

The contract with Age UK Barnsley was in its second year and had refocused of late to support the most vulnerable.  Staff had worked with the Area Team, Social Prescriber and Age UK Barnsley staff based more centrally to ensure those who required support received it.

39 volunteers had been engaged in delivering the contract with 417 interventions to support 94 older people.  The service had supported residents throughout the area.

Feedback from service users was extremely positive, however it was noted that there had been a number with complex needs.  In these cases referrals were made to other agencies where appropriate.  Members noted that issues due to lack of mobility were increasing due to the current restrictions.

It was noted that 14 service users had received information and advice from Age Uk Barnsley.  This had resulted in £41,422 of additional benefits being gained.  In addition, clients had been referred to other services such as Warm Homes where relevant.

Age UK Barnsley had also been innovative in engaging older and vulnerable people as conventional groups could not be convened.  This had included a number of home activity clubs, including a pudding club which was very well received.

Contacts had been maintained in smaller communities contacts

and adaptations made so residents could carry on with activities in their own homes where possible.

Members noted that the PenPals project had been postponed as schools had not been in session.  It was hoped that this could be resurrected now pupils had returned to school.

The Supporting Older People in the Penistone Area network had not been able to meet, but a virtual meeting was being planned.  The group would be considering the winter period and coordination of winter warmth activities.  Members noted the benefit of the presence of Age UK in the area, and the support given to those utilising the service.

The contract delivered by DIAL continued to be well subscribed with telephone and online appointments being offered.  Approximately £155,000 of additional benefits had been claimed, with over £70 claimed for £1 of Area Council investment.

The service provided by CAB had seen a significant uptake, with 78 clients being assisted since October, 2019 and £70,000 of debt now managed. £128,000 in additional benefits had also been claimed.  During the past quarter 51 clients had been supported.

Members noted that advice services continued to be promoted in the area and discussions were taking place as to how these could be better connected with services providing employment support.

Members considered the service provided by South Pennine Community Transport.  It was noted that a final report had been requested but had yet to be received.

The Area Council Manager provided feedback on the work of the Area Team, which had provided support to the Community Responders and community volunteers.   Though requests for support had reduced, contact had been maintained with service users with a view to them being able to access support if required as winter approaches.  Contact had also been maintained with groups to continue to offer support if possible.

Members were made aware of an additional resource, for a Community Engagement Officer in the Area Team, which was funded by Public Health.  This role would be hands on, gathering community intelligence and advising on the impact of Covid-19.  They would also be able to assist in reaching out to more remote residents to advise them on services available.

Members praised the impact of all services commissioned by the Area Council, and thanks were given to all involved, including the Area Team.

RESOLVED: that the report be received.