Issue - meetings

The Overview and Scrutiny Panel is asked to consider and comment on the approach set out in the report.

Executive Councillor: B Pitt

By means of a report and presentation by the Interim Corporate Director (People) (copies of which were appended in the Minute Book), the Support to the Financially Vulnerable Report was presented to the Panel.

Councillor Kerr observed that the positive difference in the community is already noticeable and praised the good work undertaken so far.

Following a question from Councillor Cawley, the Panel heard that a case management approach was being taken to ensure best practice with partners to develop a pathway in place of referrals. It was further advised that the challenge was not underestimated but that by being engaged with partners it was possible to move forward together for the benefit of residents.

In response to a question from Councillor Alban on bed blocking, the Panel were advised that by working with partners in health, it is possible to manage the realisation of an ageing population within the district by building in success instead of responding to failure. The work being undertaken ensures that the Council are shaping this agenda and leading the conversation. 

The Panel were further advised that the Council were supporting partners to ensure they have everything needed to support residents. 

Following a question from Councillor Bywater, the Panel heard that spending was on track and that outcomes would be monitored and reported on in due course. The Panel were further assured that the providers had been appointed across the district to ensure that the outcomes were deliverable to all residents and that community groups were being supported to enable self sufficiency in the long term with clear deliverables.

In response to a question from Councillor Hunt, the Panel heard that contacts were being developed and opportunities maximised to the benefit of local communities and providing the best support for local residents.

The Panel were supportive of the work undertaken to date and shared best practice examples from their local communities.