Agenda item

The report was received by Members. The consensus was that the current service was being delivered effectively and allowed for local flexibility. However, the potential of learning from other areas and for economies of scale were noted.   It was acknowledged that the report had already been considered by other Area Councils who had all preferred their services to be locally procured and managed.

Members noted the continued and increasing need for the service, and a suggestion was made to consider more evening and weekend provision so those working could be able to access.

Noted was the significant underclaiming of Pension Credit, and that, once in receipt, this could lead to being eligible for other benefits.  The need to highlight this issue wherever possible was acknowledged.

RESOLVED that the Area Council continues to commission a welfare provision service for the South Area on an independent cycle, based on local need.