Issue - meetings

The Panel is invited to comment on the contents of the report and consider the Report Recommendations.

Executive Councillor: S Howell

By means of a report and presentation by the Public Protection Manager (copies of which are appended in the Minute Book), an update on Community Health and Wealth Building was presented to the Panel.

Concern was expressed about residents in rural villages along the districts borders in particular the lack of public transport to these areas which affected residents of all ages. It was noted that it was good to see projects relating to employment, especially for young people and school leavers.

The Panel queried the social value engine challenge and how the social return on investment would be ascertained. It was noted that this was in its infancy but that further details would be made available to Members in due course as the project progressed. It was further advised that this method was used by other Councils and helped distinguish a likely return on investment, thus allowing Officers to make an informed decision on the value projects would provide. It was also advised that the tool would allow projects to be geotagged therefore flagging to local ward Members for their involvement if appropriate.

The impact of social inclusion for young people, in particular school leavers was discussed, with importance being given to a pathway to employment, improvements to mental health, physical activity and social connections.

The Panel also discussed creating a legacy with projects which would then continue beyond the funding and creating spaces and opportunities for communities to come together across all age groups.