Please contact: Tessa Gilder-Smith
Please email: Tessa.Gilder-Smith@north-norfolk.gov.uk
Please direct dial on: 01263 516047
04 March 2014
A meeting of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee of North Norfolk District Council will be held
in the in the Council Chamber at the Council Offices, Holt Road, Cromer on Wednesday 12th
March 2014 at 9.30a.m.
At the discretion of the Chairman, a short break will be taken after the meeting has been running
for approximately one and a half hours.
Members of the public who wish to ask a question or speak on an agenda item are requested to
arrive at least 15 minutes before the start of the meeting. It will not always be possible to
accommodate requests after that time. This is to allow time for the Committee Chair to rearrange
the order of items on the agenda for the convenience of members of the public. Further information
on the procedure for public speaking can be obtained from Democratic Services, Tel: 01263
516010, Email: democraticservices@north-norfolk.gov.uk
Sheila Oxtoby
Chief Executive
To: Mrs A Claussen-Reynolds, Ms V R Gay, Mrs A Green, Mr B Jarvis, Mrs B McGoun, Mr P
Moore, Mr J H Perry-Warnes, Mr R Reynolds, Mr E Seward, Mr R Shepherd, Mr N Smith, and Mr P
Terrington.
All other Members of the Council for information.
Members of the Management Team, appropriate Officers, Press and Public.
If you have any special requirements in order to attend this
meeting, please let us know in advance
If you would like any document in large print, audio, Braille, alternative
format or in a different language please contact us.
Chief Executive: Sheila Oxtoby Corporate Directors: Nick Baker & Steve Blatch
Tel 01263 513811 Fax 01263 515042 Minicom 01263 516005
Email districtcouncil@north-norfolk.gov.uk Web site northnorfolk.org
AGENDA
1.
TO RECEIVE APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE
2.
SUBSTITUTES
3.
PUBLIC QUESTIONS
To receive questions from the public, if any
4.
MINUTES
(Page 1)
(9.30 – 9.35)
To approve as correct records the minutes of the meeting of the Overview and Scrutiny
Committee held on 15 January 2014
5.
ITEMS OF URGENT BUSINESS
To determine any other items of business which the Chairman decides should be
considered as a matter of urgency pursuant to Section 100B(4)(b) of the Local Government
Act 1972.
6.
DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST
Members are asked at this stage to declare any interests that they may have in any of the
following items on the agenda. The Code of Conduct for Members requires that
declarations include the nature of the interest and whether it is a disclosable pecuniary
interest.
7.
PETITIONS FROM MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC
To consider any petitions received from members of the public.
8.
CONSIDERATION OF ANY MATTER REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE BY A MEMBER
To consider a matter referred to the committee by Councillor Philip High, regarding the
application of the Living Wage at North Norfolk District Council, following a
recommendation made by the Joint Staff Consultative Committee.
(Note: A report on this item is to follow)
9.
RESPONSES OF THE COUNCIL OR THE CABINET TO THE COMMITTEE’S REPORTS
OR RECOMMENDATIONS
To consider any responses of the Council or the Cabinet to the Committee’s reports or
recommendations.
10.
THE CABINET WORK PROGRAMME
(Page 11)
(9.35 – 9.40)
To discuss the Cabinet Work Programme and to consider the programme of business for
Cabinet, Overview and Scrutiny, and Full Council
11.
PRESENTATION BY THE AMBULANCE SERVICE
(9.40- 10.20)
To receive a presentation from Mr B Norton, Assistant General Manager of the East of
England Ambulance Service, regarding ambulance services in the district
12.
HEALTH UPDATE
(Page 14)
(10.20-10.35)
To note and discuss the received update by the Health and Communities Officer
13.
BUDGET MONITORING 2013/14 – PERIOD 10
(10.35 – 10.45)
(Cabinet Agenda p. 18)
(Appendix A – p.28) (Appendix B – p. 29) (Appendix C – p. 32) (Appendix D – p. 34)
Summary:
This report summarises the budget monitoring position for
the revenue account to the end of December 2013.
Options considered:
Not applicable
Conclusions:
The overall position at the end of period 10 shows a
forecast under spend of £169,455 for the current financial
year on the revenue account
Recommendations:
It is recommended that:
Cabinet note the contents of the report and the current
budget monitoring position.
16.
Reasons for
Recommendations:
To update Members on the current budget monitoring
position for the Council.
Cabinet Member(s)
Ward(s) affected
Contact Officer:
Telephone number
Email:
Cllr W Northam
All
Malcolm Fry
01263 516037
malcolm.fry@north-norfolk.gov.uk
ANNUAL ACTION PLAN 2014/15
(11.00-11.15)
(Cabinet Agenda page 64)
(Appendix E – p.67) (Appendix F – p.75)
Summary:
This report presents the Annual Action Plan for 2014-15 for
approval
Conclusions:
A rigorous development process has resulted in a balanced
and effective Annual Action Plan for 2014 -15 and
associated performance indicators to deliver the priorities
and objectives as laid out in the Corporate Plan 2012-2015.
Recommendations:
Cabinet is recommended to approve the Annual Action
Plan 2014-15 as set out in Appendix E and the targets
and recommendations for performance indicators as
set out in Appendix F.
Cabinet Member(s)
Ward(s) affected
Contact Officer:
Telephone number
Email:
All
All
Helen Thomas
01263 516214
helen.thomas@north-norfolk.gov.uk
17.
OVERVIEW AND SCRUTINY UPDATE
(11.15 – 11.20)
(Page 19)
(Appendix A –p.21) (Appendix B –p.24) (Appendix C- p.25)
Summary:
This report updates the Committee on progress with topics in its
agreed work programme (attached at Appendix A) and invites
Members to identify any arising items for future meetings. The
Scrutiny Committee’s working style and role is attached at
Appendix B.
Conclusions:
That progress is being made in some areas, others need to be
monitored and opportunities for scrutiny should be discussed.
Recommendations:
That Members should consider any follow-up actions required
on these topics.
Cabinet Member(s):
Ward(s) affected
Contact Officer
telephone number
and email:
19.
Mr R Oliver
All
Emma Denny
01263 516010
emma.denny@north-norfolk.gov.uk
EXCLUSION OF THE PRESS AND PUBLIC
To pass the following resolution, if necessary:
“That under Section 100A(4) of the Local Government Act 1972 the press and public be
excluded from the meeting for the following items of business on the grounds that they
involve the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in paragraph _ of Part I of
Schedule 12A (as amended) to the Act.”
20.
TO CONSIDER ANY EXEMPT MATTERS ARISING FROM CONSIDERATION OF THE
PUBLIC BUSINESS OF THE AGENDA
Agenda item no._______4_______
OVERVIEW AND SCRUTINY
Minutes of a meeting of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee held on 12 February
2014 in the Council Chamber, North Norfolk District Council, Holt Road, Cromer at
9.30 am.
Members Present:
Committee:
Mr P W Moore (Chairman)
Mrs A Claussen-Reynolds
Ms V R Gay
Mrs A Green
Mrs B McGoun
Mr J H Perry-Warnes
Mr R Reynolds
Mr R Shepherd
Mr N Smith
Mr P Terrington
Officers in
Attendance:
The Chief Executive, The Head of Finance, The Head of Organisational
Development, The Chief Accountant, The Technical Accountant, The
Democratic Services Team Leader, The Democratic Services Officer.
Members in
Attendance:
Mrs L Brettle, Miss B Palmer, Mr T FitzPatrick, Mr A Yiasimi, Mr P Williams,
Mrs A Moore, Mr P High, Mr D Young, Mrs P Grove-Jones, Mr R Stevens,
Mr W Northam.
Democratic Services Officer (TGS)
129. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE
Mr B Jarvis
130. SUBSTITUTES
None received.
131. PUBLIC QUESTIONS
None received
132. MINUTES
With regards to item 125, the Waste Contract Update, Mrs A Claussen-Reynolds request
the minutes be amended to show that her question at point two was raised following a
report she read in that morning’s news.
Mr R Reynolds wished to point out that regarding point 11 under item 127, the Car
Parking Review, he had not received any information regarding Hall Staithe as of yet.
Mr E Seward queried if the recommendation made under the Car Parking Review would
Overview and Scrutiny Committee
1
12 February 2014
be coming back to the committee. The Democratic Services Officer replied that the
relevant officers were aware of the recommendation and were preparing the information
for the committee.
Mr G Jones wished for point 3 under item 126, the Environmental Sustainability Update,
to be amended to show his interest in the creation of Local Enterprise Centres in the
district in order to further support both environmental and economic sustainability.
The minutes were approved and signed as a correct record of the meeting.
133. ITEMS OF URGENT BUSINESS
None received.
134. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST
None received.
135. PETITIONS FROM MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC
None received.
136. CONSIDERATION OF ANY MATTER REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE BY A
MEMBER
None received.
137. RESPONSES OF THE COUNCIL OR THE CABINET TO THE COMMITTEE’S
REPORTS OR RECOMMENDATIONS
None received.
138. THE CABINET WORK PROGRAMME
The Committee considered the Cabinet Work Programme and noted its content.
139. PRESENTATION BY THE POLICE AND CRIME COMMISSIONER
The Chairman introduced Mr S Bett, the Police and Crime Commissioner for Norfolk and
thanked him for attending the committee. Mr S Bett thanked the Chairman and
introduced his role as PCC to the committee. He commented that there was no template
or job description to being the PCC, but rather he acted as a ‘victims champion’ and put
a spotlight on issues which the county deemed important, cutting across all public
services in the county. He explained that whilst he had no power to force services to
change the way they work, he did have the power to scrutinise issues of importance,
and to raise publicly when the service might not be working suitably. He summarised by
suggesting he used his role to focus on services that proved wasteful or lacked
efficiency in providing resources to the public. He further explained that he was also
responsible for signing off the complete police budget in the county.
Mr S Bett then went on to give a number of examples of his work in his tenure as PCC
so far. He first discussed domestic violence, suggesting that its prevalence and
perception of its normality in the county was shocking. He explained that when attending
a county school to discuss such issues, one group of 40 pupils, aged 11-17, had nearly
all raised their hands when questioned if domestic violence took place in their
Overview and Scrutiny Committee
2
12 February 2014
household. He further explained that many of them perceived this as normal, which
could often create a cycle of violence in a child’s life, which he intended to try and
prevent via giving doctors surgeries and other frontline services the resources to train
people to recognise the signs of domestic violence. He commented that at the PCC he
had provided these institutions with the funds and within the first week of this being
commissioned 65 individuals had started their training. He further explained that the
county currently had 200 trained individuals across a range of institutions. He concluded
by saying that he hoped this would help prevent and resolve domestic violence issues
before police intervention, saving time, money and resources in the long term.
He then went on to discuss mental health in the county, explaining that approximately
40% of all of those brought into police custody had some form of mental health issue.
He explained that he wanted all police control rooms to have access to a mental health
worker, who in contact with the Police Investigation Centres 24 hours a day, could be a
resource when individuals with mental health issues were brought in. He further
explained that he would be utilising charities, voluntary networks, and mental health
teams to ensure this was appropriately covered. He concluded by suggesting that if
individuals were given correct care and their issues recognised immediately, often it
could prevent them from progressing further into a system which may not be beneficial
to them.
Mr S Bett’s third example regarding his work as the PCC was around the rehabilitation
of offenders, particularly those with sentences of 12 months or less. He explained that
following release from prison there was currently no suitable follow up system, and
many of those released reoffended or harmed themselves due to a lack of options. Mr S
Bett explained that he called a conference with all the relevant parties, so they could
organise a system to incentivise inmates released to keep away from reoffending,
providing the resources for these groups to do this. He explained that individuals often
felt lost after release from prison due to a lack of housing, no support system, often
mental health issues, and of particular importance, no employment. He explained that
he wished to provide individuals with hostels following their release, and opportunities
for employment to gain skills and training. One aspect of this was the opening of a
bakery in the Chapelfield Shopping Centre in Norwich was offered opportunities for
prison inmates to learn relevant employment skills. He explained that of those who had
used the ‘straight to work’ system, 70% had not reoffended and had successfully reengaged in society.
He concluded by explaining that the PCC could not work alone, but he felt his role was
important in providing resources and delegating to professionals, to empower them to
make decisions without the fear of repercussions should they make mistakes. He
wished to ensure lines of communication were open between different organisations,
providing multi-agency hubs for the relevant services to work together in the same room.
He concluded by suggesting that he would be happy with the remainder of his time in
office if policing in Norfolk continued to successfully make savings and cut down
bureaucracy whilst providing an efficient and effective service to members of the public.
The Chairman thanked Mr S Bett for his informative presentation and invited members
to ask questions.
1. Mr R Reynolds explained that he was a member of the Norfolk Community Safety
Partnership Scrutiny Panel, and commented on some aspects of his attendance at
the most recent panel. He explained that the work of the panel fitted in well with the
role of the PCC, ensuring Norfolk remained a safe place to live and work, and
worked with a number of statutory authorities to ensure this continued. He
Overview and Scrutiny Committee
3
12 February 2014
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
commented that he believed all the examples Mr Bett raised were of importance to
keeping Norfolk safe, and thanked Mr Bett for his hard work.
A number of questions had been received from members prior to the meeting,
including ones from Mr E Seward and Mr N Smith. Mr E Seward’s question noted
the improved statistics of 19% to 41% crime ‘clean-up’ in North Walsham since the
introduction of CCTV, and queried if the PCC would be able to help town councils
with their initial capital costs of taking control of the CCTV system. Mr N Smith’s
question suggested that CCTV reduced police costs in solving crime and queried if
the PCC would be able to contribute also. Mr S Bett replied that he had spoken to
the leader of the council and members of the Cabinet, and had explained that within
his budget, there were not the resources to cover CCTV service, particularly as it
may set a precedent for providing funds elsewhere in the county. He commended
market towns for their decision to take on CCTV themselves but explained that they
may have to fund this. He further explained that occasionally CCTV increased police
costs due to increasing police avenues of interest, and occasionally the poor quality
picture that CCTV provided. He explained that whilst he thought CCTV was
important it was not currently a priority, which meant that with his reduced budget he
did not have the resources to fund it.
Mr J Perry-Warnes had also submitted a question, querying if the mental health
workers due to be installed in police control rooms would also be working on the
front line. Mr S Bett explained that they would not be working on the front line of
police service, but would be dealing with calls into the control room, and assessing
whether those individuals who had been arrested would need assistance when they
attended the PICs. He further explained that the charity UK Together and the Mental
Health Trust were working with the PCC to put this in place.
Mr G Jones had also submitted a question, querying if police artificially supressed
crime figures to present a reduction of crime in the county, providing anecdotal
evidence for this. Mr S Bett explained that police did not artificially supress data, and
in fact explained a phenomenon he termed the ‘Savile Effect’ wherein police were
actually having more individuals coming forward with information on crimes that
could be 40 years old. He explained that often these crimes were difficult to
prosecute and gather evidence around, due to their age and nature of the crime. He
explained that police were now learning how best to deal with these enquiries, and
also to provide the best care for victims. He commented that he hoped to place careworkers within the PICs to give those arrested help and understanding, as they
could be victims also. With regards to Mr G Jones’ anecdote, Mr S Bett explained
that often the CPS would refuse to prosecute without 100% certainty of conviction,
but that he would take details of Mr G Jones’ information and attempt to investigate
it further.
Mr P Williams cited a study done at a Wiltshire Category C prison which suggested
that 70% of inmates had some form of learning difficulty. He stated his concern that
often prison was not the correct way to deal with these individuals, and was pleased
with the PCC’s initiative to provide inmates with skills and training following release.
He queried if it might be possible for when health practitioners were dealing with
these individuals to perform a simple eye test which identified a prevalent but often
missed eye condition which prevented individuals from being able to see, and
therefore read and write, effectively. Mr S Bett commented that he was not aware of
this particular condition; however he would be happy to take information from Mr P
Williams to pass onto rehabilitation coordinators, to ensure this test could be
identified.
Mrs B McGoun thanked the PCC for his refreshing approach for dealing with crime
and disorder. She commended the PCC for having a female deputy, and queried
why there were not more female members of the county Police and Crime Panel. Mr
S Bett explained that the district and county councils had responsibility for
appointing to the PCP but that he agreed that a female presence was important for
Overview and Scrutiny Committee
4
12 February 2014
the panel to have. He also commented on having a female deputy, explaining that
she was very competent, and with regards to her political mindset, provided a
balance to himself. He explained that she often acted as a mediator and provided
particular knowledge with regards to social care. He confirmed that he was very
pleased to have appointed her.
7. Mr E Seward raised the possibility of the police looking again at providing funding for
CCTV, reasserting its position as a capital contribution. Mr S Bett commented that
Mr E Seward might find it useful to look into the Norfolk Community Foundation, who
had been allocated £100,000 to fund projects which combatted crime and disorder
for up to £10,000 each. He recommended Mr E Seward contact Mr Graham Tuttle at
the foundation for advice and information. Mr E Seward went on to raise the issue of
noise pollution in market towns, explaining he had been made aware of a device
which could be used to measure noise. Mr S Bett asked Mr E Seward to provide him
with details of this and he would look into it.
8. Mr W Northam gave his thanks to Mr S Bett for attending the committee, stating that
he had found his visit very worthwhile.
9. Mrs A Claussen-Reynolds asked for further information on the Norfolk Community
Foundation panel. Mr S Bett explained that it was his intention that a panel should
consider all applications received for the allocation of funds up to £10,000, and that
these projects would be reviewed on a 6-monthly basis in order to ensure growth
and success. He asked the committee to get in contact with his PA, Ms Kerry
Wright, should they want further details.
Mr P Moore thanked Mr S Bett for answering members’ questions and invited him to reattend the committee in the future to provide an update on his valuable work.
140. BUDGET MONITORING 2013/14- PERIOD 9
The portfolio holder for finance introduced this report. He commented that this report
summarised the position to the end of December 2013. He explained that costs of the
tidal surge so far were covered in the report, as well as service area costs in table 1. He
explained that for the current year, the report projected an under spend of £163,455. The
Chairman then invited members to ask questions.
1.
2.
3.
Mr E Seward queried if the advice from the government, which required local
authorities to publish annual reports on car parking figures had been implemented.
The Head of Finance replied that whilst they did currently show figures of gross
expenditure and income in their outturn report, they were looking at what other
transparency requirements had been put in place that would need to be
implemented. She further commented that she would follow this up with the Assets
and Leisure team. The Leader of the Council, Mr T FitzPatrick, commented that
should there be any new statutory requirements the authority would put them in
place as necessary.
Ms V Gay commented that there being new transparency requirements had also
been her understanding. She went on to query the figures cited on page 17 of the
report, regarding funds received from the Youth Advisory Board income awaiting
allocation. She asked if this was the first such payment received by the authority or
if they had received one last year. The Chief Accountant commented that he
believed it was the first such payment but that he would check the information.
Mr G Jones commented that at the last meeting of the committee, they had
received information regarding income and expenditure on car parking, but that the
portfolio holder for assets and leisure had agreed to review these figures under the
budget process. He stated concern that this had not taken place. He also
commented on the need for a risk assessment regarding council dependency on
parking income. The Chief Executive referred back to Mr E Seward’s earlier
Overview and Scrutiny Committee
5
12 February 2014
question, stating that she believed the new transparency guidelines were regarding
on street parking as opposed to off street parking, but that any information the
authority held regarding figures, members could of course request. She also
commented that following the previous committee meeting, the committee had
resolved to receive a further car parking report which was being put in place. She
also replied that the portfolio holder for assets and leisure had put in place a review
of car parking charges, but as the review recommended that no changes were
made, there was no clear identification of this in the budget report. She did suggest
that it would be possible to consult the minutes to see however, if anything different
had been put in place. The Leader of the Council reiterated this and commented
that no recommendations had been made out of the budget process, hence no
changes to the charging system. The Chief Executive further reiterated if any
member wanted further information, they could request it from the relevant officers.
The Chairman thanked members for their comments and the committee
NOTED
The report with two abstentions.
141. TREASURY MANAGEMENT STRATEGY STATEMENT 2014/15
The portfolio holder for finance introduced this item. He commented that the strategy
presented an appropriate balance between risk management and cost effectiveness, and
that the report complied with all statutory requirements for the Code of Practice of
Treasury Management. The Chairman invited members to ask questions.
1.
2.
3.
The
Mr E Seward commented on low interest rates of return, asking if anything could be
done differently. The Chief Executive replied that the recently approved Local
Investment Strategy would result in commercial interest rates for the authority,
creating a commercial rate of return. The Technical Accountant commented that
whilst these rates were low, their property fund was currently doing well, and the
authority’s priority was security of funds and balancing risk. He did comment they
were always looking out for higher rates.
Mrs A Moore queried if the council was borrowing money in order to lend to fund the
Local Investment Strategy. The Chief Executive replied that it was internal
borrowing, and that no external borrowing was planned. The Chairman commented
that work may need to be done to ensure that this was clear within the reports,
potentially with clear English guidance.
The Chief Executive again commented on the authority’s property fund, stating that
interest rates were currently at 5.4%, which was a good rate for the authority. She
further commented that whilst property funds had been volatile a number of years
ago, there had been a correction in the market and the authority had invested in
them at the right time. The portfolio holder for Finance agreed and commented that
there had been a £58,104 increase in the value of their property funds.
Chairman
thanked
members
for
their
comments
and
the
committee
RESOLVED
To support the Cabinet recommendations to Full Council.
Overview and Scrutiny Committee
6
12 February 2014
142. 2014/15 BUDGET REPORT
Member Briefing- Affordable Housing
Before discussing the 2014/15 Budget Report, The Chief Executive discussed a briefing
on affordable housing which had been brought to committee, following a question from a
member at the previous meeting. The Chief Executive explained that the briefing outlined
where funds from the housing stock transfer in 2006 had been allocated, as well as
amounts spent on affordable housing in the district since this time. She noted that of the
funds received from the stock transfer, £1 million had been ring-fenced for affordable
housing. She explained that to the 31st March 2013, £4.1 million had been received from
Preserved Right to Buy receipts, and £3.7 million from VAT Shelter receipts. Following
the stock transfer agreement, therefore, the authority received £8.7 million. Total housing
expenditure and budgeted from 2006/07 to 2015/16 was £19.2 million, of which £5.7
million had been financed externally. Therefore £13.5 million had been allocated by the
authority, from authority funds, to spend on housing in the district, including £3.5 million in
loans to registered providers and £5.1 million in housing association grants.
The Chief Executive explained that the importance of the Local Investment Strategy,
which would allow the authority to offer loans to housing associations, was that they could
recycle the money invested in affordable housing through the interest gained off of these
loans. The Chairman thanked the Chief Executive for her comments and invited members
to ask questions.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Mr J Perry-Warnes queried what period the preserved Right to Buys covered. The
Chief Executive explained they covered the period from the stock transfer, February
2006, until the present day. Mr J Perry-Warnes then queried if they had received
any expressions of interest in the Local Investment Strategy from housing
associations. The Chief Executive replied that they had received one expression of
interest.
Mr R Reynolds queried what the rate of return would be on the Local Investment
Strategy loans. The Head of Finance replied that it would be an annual commercial
rate in the region of 4% to 5%.
Mr D Young referred to paragraph 8.2.3 on page 53, regarding Housing
Renovations Grants, querying when the policy regarding these grants had ended.
The Chief Executive replied that the authority had not renewed the policy which
would have come under the budget process.
Mr G Jones queried if for every affordable house built in the district, the authority
received a grant from the government. The Chief Executive explained that it was
housing associations which received this grant, and that the authority covered much
of the difference in funding for housing associations. She further explained that as
this grant was now going, the authority could offer housing associations loans
instead, and that the gap in funding was often being plugged by housing disposals
programmes. She further commented on the New Homes Bonus, of which 80% was
taken into the authority’s base budget, and 20% was earmarked for spending.
Mr P Williams queried if the Local Investment Strategy was being opened up to
small housing providers and the Head of Finance replied that all registered housing
providers had been invited to express an interest.
The Chairman thanked the Chief Executive and the Head of Finance for their update on
affordable housing. He proposed the committee moved on to considering the substantive
details of the 2014/15 budget.
Overview and Scrutiny Committee
7
12 February 2014
2014/15 Budget Report
The portfolio holder for finance introduced this item. He explained that the budget had
already been considered by the Cabinet and was due to go to the February meeting of
council for final approval. He explained that the budget set out the impact of the tidal
surge in December as well as setting out the recommendations as outlined in the cabinet
papers. Before inviting members to ask questions, the Head of Finance dealt with a
number of questions which had previously been submitted to her.
1. Mr E Seward had previously queried what the average increases for parish and town
council precepts was, as well as requesting information regarding the Bellwin scheme
and the funds the authority could claim back following the December tidal surge.
Regarding town and parish precepts, the Head of Finance explained that the
authority could not influence them, nor were town and parishes subject to the need to
hold a public referendum should they decide to raise their precept above 2%. She
explained the average increase across parish and town councils for band D
equivalents were 11.17%, (equating to £4.47 per annum) with an average increase of
7.96% in parishes (equating to approximately £2.50) and 13.9% in towns, (equating
to an approximate £7.31). Regarding the Bellwin scheme, the Head of Finance
explained that the cost to the authority from the tidal surge had been approximately
£2.8 million, of which £823,918 was covered by insurance. From the Bellwin scheme,
the Head of Finance explained that the authority may be able to claim approximately
£82,470 back. The Leader of the council further reiterated that he would continue to
lobby central government for further funds to help support repairs in the district and
that he would keep all members updated.
2. The Head of Finance then went on to answer queries from member Mr D Young who
had submitted questions in advance. The first query asked if earmarked reserves
were funds which had been committed to certain projects. The Head of Finance
explained that whilst they weren’t ring fenced, they had been committed to certain
projects, for example the Big Society Fund, which was returned to the district by
Norfolk County Council. The second query asked if town and parish councils were
subject to the need for a referendum should they raise their council tax precept above
2%. The Head of finance explained that whilst town and parish councils were not
restricted by this need for a referendum, Minister Brandon Lewis had suggested that
this restriction could be applied to larger town and parish councils if it was thought to
be necessary in future years. The third query referred to Table 4 on page 50,
regarding non-service expenditure, asking why this had increased to £8.5 million. The
Head of Finance explained this aspect of the 2014/15 budget included loans to
registered providers and also covered improvements and enhancements costs under
the coast protection scheme. She also explained that the difference between the total
net costs from the 2013/14 budget to the 2014/15 budget was due to differences in
parish precepts. The fourth query, regarding point 8.2.13 on page 54, was explained
as not being new funds received by the council, but funds allocated by the
Environment Agency for repairs to sea defences. The Head of Finance also
explained that further emergency works claims had also been put in place following
the December tidal surge. The fifth query related to point 10.2.7 on page 59, Second
Homes money from the county council. The Head of Finance explained that whilst
there was no proposed change to this in the 2014/15 budget (the authority would still
receive 50% of the discretionary elements (45%) of the Second Homes charge from
Norfolk County Council), there had been proposals which would change this funding
in the 15/16 budget to 25%, and to 0% in 16/17, but this would not become clear until
later in the year. Finally the Head of Finance explained that the query regarding the
Overview and Scrutiny Committee
8
12 February 2014
3.
4.
5.
6.
note to the figures on page 90, appendix H, was an error and should read £36,769 in
both places.
Mr D Young thanked the Head of Finance for her responses. He queried if the
committee should consider a recommendation to put the allocation of earmarked
funds on hold until the authority was aware what funds they were receiving from the
government regarding the tidal surge. The Head of Finance explained that general
reserve was in place for contingency situations, and regarding the tidal surge they
would be looking at the general reserve to fund some of this in the short term, should
further funding not be received. The Chief Executive further explained that the
Section 151 officer would ensure that the authority was being practical and
responsible in terms of its financial position, and would report to the relevant
committees should changes need to be made. The portfolio holder reiterated this and
commented that he had confidence that officers would ensure fiscal responsibility.
Ms V Gay referred to page 63 of the Cabinet report, querying what ‘Savings Bid
ECD2’ referred to. The Head of Finance explained that this was a reduction in the
services provided to the Cromer museum. The Leader of the Council commented that
he would clarify this further for the meeting of full council. Ms V Gay further queried if
the Arts and Entertainments team was undergoing a restructure. The Head of
Finance replied that this was detailed in appendix G with savings of approximately
£74,000. The Chief Executive clarified that there was a detailed consultation
document which she could share, and which showed that whilst there would no
longer be a dedicated arts officer, the authority was still able to provide resources for
these services.
Mr G Jones queried if the rise in parish council precepts would affect the district
council. The Chief Executive explained that it would affect the bills of individuals in
parishes and towns where there had been a raise, but would show on the bill as one
figure; which some may interpret as a rise by the district council. Mr G Jones went
onto query why staff pay hadn’t increased recently. The Chief Executive explained
that pay was set by a national agreement and not set locally. However on a national
basis, employer and union opinions were always taken into account. Mr G Jones
further queried where budget information on Sheringham Little Theatre, the Cromer
Tennis Club, and the Pier Pavillion could be found. The Head of Finance explained
that budget information regarding the Little Theatre could be found on page 63 under
arts and entertainments, Cromer Tennis Club on page 69 under ‘other sports’ and the
pier pavilion also on this page under its own heading.
Mr E Seward requested an update regarding CCTV budgeting under the 2014/15
Budget Report to be received by the upcoming meeting of Full Council, and it was
agreed to action this.
The Chairman thanked members for their comments and the committee thanked finance
service area for their work. Mr J Perry-Warnes and Mr R Shepherd seconded and it was
RESOLVED
To support the Cabinet recommendations to Full Council, with 3 abstentions
143. MANAGING PERFORMANCE Q3 2013/14
The Leader of the Council introduced this item. He commented that there had been a
number of changes to the report structure since the update in Q2. He explained that the
colour charts had been updated to make them more understandable and to increase
clarity. He commented that there had been a number of progressions against the
corporate plan and that 35 out of 49 of the performance quotients were on track and the
relevant officers were monitoring those which were not on track. He highlighted that
Overview and Scrutiny Committee
9
12 February 2014
planning delivery had improved, and that staffing gaps following the extra staffing needs
of the tidal surge had been closely monitored and put into place successfully. The
Chairman then invited members to ask questions.
1. Mr G Jones queried how it was decided what performance targets were monitored
and queried when they had last been reviewed. The Chief Executive explained that
the Scrutiny committee had the power to add different progress monitoring targets
and that the committee should request more details, and if the authority was
equipped to provide them, they could be included in the future. She explained the
framework for performance management had recently been reviewed and they were
not monitoring as many activities as previously, however this could be adapted. She
also explained that transactional based activities lent themselves to being monitored
more simply, and for example, Economic Development was often less tangible in
terms of providing monitoring activity. The Leader of the Council reiterated this and
also commented that members could speak to the Cabinet or relevant portfolio holder
if they so wished. Mr G Jones queried what the most recent thing the committee had
asked to be monitored. The Chairman replied that they had asked for planning
performance figures, and the Chief Executive replied that the Waste Updates came
out of poor contractual performance. The Leader of the Council again reiterated that
if members wanted further data or information, the authority would do their best to
provide it.
The Chairman thanked members for their comments and the committee
NOTED
The report
144. OVERVIEW AND SCRUTINY UPDATE
The Democratic Services Team Leader introduced this item. She commented that it may
be useful for the committee to invite the Police and Crime Commissioner back to the
committee at some point, and the committee agreed it would be useful for him to return to
provide an update. The Democratic Services team agreed to action this. The Democratic
Services Team Leader also updated the committee on the item on the Internal Boards.
She explained that she still need to collate the terms of reference from the boards, but
that she would provide an update at the following committee meeting and that questions
could be directed to the Monitoring Officer during the informal April meeting. She further
confirmed that the ambulance service would be attending the March meeting of the
committee to provide a presentation. She updated the committee on the current work
programme, stating that the tourism item had been moved to May to allow the
Communities team to collect more relevant data, and that the Equalities report would
come to the committee as an item for information only.
The meeting concluded at 12.35pm
____________________
Chairman
Overview and Scrutiny Committee
10
12 February 2014
North Norfolk District Council
Cabinet Work Programme
For the Period 01 March 2014 to 31 May 2014
Decision Maker(s)
Meeting
Date
Subject &
Summary
Cabinet
Member(s)
3 Mar 2014
Annual Action Plan
Corporate
Plan Priority`
Lead Officer
Status
All
Helen Thomas
Policy & Performance
Management Officer
01263 516214
Annual
Revenues & Benefits
shared services
Wyndham
Northam
Steve Blatch
Corporate Director
01263 516232
March 2014
Cabinet
12 Mar 2014
30 Apr 2014
Cabinet
3 Mar 2014
Scrutiny
12 Mar 2014
Cabinet
3 Mar 2014
New Telephony
System
Russell Wright
Nick Baker
Corporate Director
01263 516221
Cabinet
3 Mar 2014
Budget Monitoring
Period 10
Wyndham
Northam
Scrutiny
12 Mar 2014
Karen Sly
Head of Finance
01263 516243
Key Decision – a decision which is likely to incur expenditure or savings of £100,000 or more, or affect two or more wards. (NNDC
Constitution, p9 s12.2b)
* Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972 (As amended by the Local Authorities (Access to Information) (Exempt Information) (England) Order
2006)
11
North Norfolk District Council
Cabinet Work Programme
For the Period 01 March 2014 to 31 May 2014
Decision Maker(s)
Meeting
Date
Subject &
Summary
Cabinet
Member(s)
Corporate
Plan Priority`
Lead Officer
Cabinet
3 Mar 2014
S106 Agreements –
Affordable Housing
Provisions
Trevor Ivory
Nicola Turner
Team Leader –
Strategy
01263 516222
Cabinet
3 Mar 2014
S157 Restrictions
Trevor Ivory
Nicola Turner
Team Leader –
Strategy
01263 516222
Business Grants &
Loans
Russell Wright
Jill Fisher
Head of Economic and
Community
Development
01263 516080
Status
April 2014
Cabinet
May 2014
Cabinet
12 May 2014
Overview & Scrutiny
20 May 2014
Business
Transformation
update
Nick Baker
Corporate Director
01263 516221
Key Decision – a decision which is likely to incur expenditure or savings of £100,000 or more, or affect two or more wards. (NNDC
Constitution, p9 s12.2b)
* Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972 (As amended by the Local Authorities (Access to Information) (Exempt Information) (England) Order
2006)
12
North Norfolk District Council
Cabinet Work Programme
For the Period 01 March 2014 to 31 May 2014
Decision Maker(s)
Meeting
Date
Subject &
Summary
Cabinet
Member(s)
Cabinet
12 May 2014
Energy Strategy
John Lee
Scrutiny
20 May 2014
Steve Blatch
Corporate Director
01263 516232
Cabbell Park
Tom
FitzPatrick
Duncan Ellis
Head of Assets &
Leisure
01263 516330
To be confirmed:
Cabinet
Corporate
Plan Priority`
Lead Officer
Status
Key Decision – a decision which is likely to incur expenditure or savings of £100,000 or more, or affect two or more wards. (NNDC
Constitution, p9 s12.2b)
* Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972 (As amended by the Local Authorities (Access to Information) (Exempt Information) (England) Order
2006)
13
North Norfolk District Council – Health and Wellbeing Report
NNDC contributes to the health and wellbeing agenda though direct service provision as well
as engagement with partners at both a strategic and local level.
The main focus of our work is on the wider issues that affect a person’s health such as the
external environmental, working and living conditions, economic status, activities,
opportunities and services available within the local community to promote physical, social,
mental and economic health for people of all ages.
This report provides a brief update on some of the strategic as well as local projects and
initiatives that support health and wellbeing.
General overview
As part of NNDC’s contribution and responsibility within the health and wellbeing agenda we
work in partnership and have regular contact with a range of voluntary and community
organisations. In addition we are increasingly being contacted by members of the public
requesting advice and support in relation to health and wellbeing issues either for
themselves or a relative.
There is a growing issue of voluntary and community groups who provide vital services often
to vulnerable elderly or young people struggling to keep their service open because of
reduced funding. Many of the people to whom they provide services do not meet Norfolk
County Council Critical and Substantive eligibility criteria however they still have significant
need.
Critical and Substantive need is identified as:
Critical when:
Life is, or will be, threatened
Significant health problems have developed or will develop
There is or will be little or no choice or control over vital aspects of the immediate
environment.
Serious abuse or neglect has occurred or will occur
There is or will be an inability to carry out vital personal care or domestic routines
Vital involvement in work education or learning cannot or will not be sustained.
Vital social support systems and relationships cannot or will not be sustained
Vital family and other social roles and responsibilities cannot or will not be
undertaken.
Substantial when:
There is or will be only partial choice or control over the immediate environment.
Abuse or neglect has occurred or will occur
There is or will be an inability to carry out the majority or personal care or domestic
routines.
Involvement in many aspects of work, education or learning cannot or will not be
sustained.
The majority of social support systems and relationships cannot or will not be
sustained.
The majority of family and other social roles and responsibilities cannot or will not be
undertaken.
1
14
People meeting these criteria should be offered help and support but this is subject to a
financial assessment.
If people do not meet the eligibility criteria they can still access services if they are able to
fund them.
An example of the impact of this is that some organisations such as Age UK North Norfolk
have reduced the geographical area and the range of services they offer.
I am increasingly receiving often quite distressing phone calls from members of the public
who are in significant need of help and support but do not meet NCC eligibility criteria and
are their income is just above the financial threshold for benefit support. If they require
support services that do not fall within the Councils remit, wherever possible they directed to
other sources of help but with services diminishing this is becoming harder.
It is interesting to note that there are an increasing number of applications to the North
Norfolk Big Society Fund from voluntary organisations requesting grants for support services
for vulnerable people. Often these are services that would either have been run by Norfolk
County Council or funded by them and delivered through a voluntary organisation. The
majority of these fall outside the current scope of the Fund.
Norfolk Health and Wellbeing Board
The Board considered the draft Joint Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2014 – 17 at their last
meeting in January. The Strategy identifies actions for each of the three priority areas: early
life (0-5), obesity and dementia. District Councils are identified as having a key responsibility
in relation to several of action points in particular in relation to obesity.
NNDC is represented at the Health and Wellbeing Board by Cllr. Fitch – Tillet and at the
officer working group by Sonia Shuter
A Housing Information sub group has been set up to develop the information held on Norfolk
Insight as part of the Joint Strategic Needs Assessment (JSNA) relating to housing and the
impacts of housing on health and wellbeing. NNDC is represented by Karen Hill.
North Norfolk and rural Broadland Strategic Partnership Group – Nick Baker
Nick Baker is the NNDC representative on this group. Other partners include North Norfolk
Clinical Commissioning Group (NNCCG), Norfolk County Council and Broadland District
Council. It aims to identify partnership opportunities and provide local strategic direction,
priorities for action and current activities within key areas.
A working sub group has been formed to develop commissioning strategies for housing and
housing related support services which will also identify opportunities for integration of
services as part of the wider transformation agenda. NNDC is represented by Karen Hill.
North Norfolk Health Improvement Forum - Nick Baker and Sonia Shuter
The Forum held a themed meeting on obesity when it met in October 2013. Of particular
concern was the lack of local support programmes for children identified as part of the
national schools measurement programme as being outside the accepted weight ratio for
their age.
This identified need contributed to the decision to run a Fit4it child health programme in
Cromer. NNDC actively helped promote and advertise this programme which started in
January 2014.
2
15
Community Led Health Improvement
The Norfolk Health and Wellbeing Board agreed that each district council area would be
awarded one off funding for locally led health improvement initiatives that met at least one of
the Boards priorities. North Norfolk allocation was £30,000. Following discussions with
partner agencies it was agreed the funding should be used to support initiatives aimed at
reducing obesity. Members of the Strategic Partnership Group and the Health Improvement
Forum were asked to identify potential projects that met the criteria. Karl Read on behalf of
NNDC identified 3 potential initiatives focussing on a school based health and activity
programme, a range of non sport based activities and classes which could be held in sports
centres or other venues particularly aimed at people who currently identify themselves as
inactive, a cycle based programme aimed at encouraging families to cycle safely.
These were the only projects suggested. The Strategic Partnership Group for North Norfolk
and Broadland endorsed the school and activity classes’ projects; further discussion is taking
place regarding the cycling initiative.
Whilst this was partnership funding NNDC has proactively taken the lead in progressing this
time limited funding opportunity for the benefit on local residents.
Coastal Communities Fund (CCF) - Sonia Shuter and John Mullen
With a disproportionate and increasing elderly population many of whom have complex
needs there is a need to increase the work force in respect of trained carers and provide
support to nursing, residential and domiciliary care providers. NNDC worked with Norfolk
and Suffolk Care Support in 2013 to submit a funding bid to address this issue which
unfortunately was unsuccessful. A revised bid will be submitted when the fund opens again
shortly.
Grow Your Community – Sonia Shuter
Broadland District Council invited NNDC to work in partnership on a Grow Your Community
initiative in Hoveton and Wroxham. The aim of GYC is to work with the local community to
identify strengths within the community, challenges the community is facing and identify local
solutions. Progress so far has been positive and this may be a model which can be used in
other areas of North Norfolk to promote and encourage community involvement and action.
Warm and Well in Norfolk – Karen Hill
Due to the responsibility for the Public Health function transferring to the County Council
there was no Department of Health funding for Warm and Well in 2013/14. The County
Council has focused the 2013/14 Warm and Well campaign on education of professionals
working with vulnerable people through an e-learning tool and of vulnerable people through
information placed in repeat prescription pharmacy bags distributed through targeted
pharmacies. Rollover of underspend from 2012/13 means that the free low level insulation is
still available via Age UK North Norfolk and grants towards emergency boiler and heating
repairs are still available by North Norfolk District Council. The portable heaters are also still
available for loan. We have been fortunate in that this winter has been very mild
Strong and Well – Karen Hill
The County Council agreed funding for an 5 year initiative to support the over 75’s to remain
living independently in the community and avoid the need to move into residential or nursing
care through the delivery of a basket of measures and a focus on building community
capacity enabling communities to look after ‘their own’. This initiative has been cut back due
to the need to make savings but £500,000 of revenue and at least £500,000 of capital is
3
16
available to support this objective over the coming 12/18 months. The Council is a member
of the Strong and Well reference group and is contributing ideas on how best any money
allocated to the North Norfolk locality could be best utilised.
Falls Pathway Planning – Karen Hill
A Norfolk wide Falls Group has been established to increase the focus on the development
of pathways for accessing Falls Services. This group has encouraged the development of a
Falls Group in each of the CCG localities. The North Norfolk Group has met twice and is
starting to map out pathways into the Falls Service in the area. The Council is represented
on the group and is keen to look at how these services link in to the North Norfolk Integrated
Housing Adaptations Team whereby a high proportion of service users are requesting
adaptations as a result of a fall or a fear of falling. The group will be seeking to shift the focus
of services away from treating those who have had injurious falls to falls prevention.
Integrated Housing Adaptations Service
The Government funding for Disabled Facilities Grant will from 2015/16 move from the
Department for Communities and Local Government to the Department of Health. The
Department of Health will distribute this funding to localities through the newly introduced
Better Care Fund. The funding will then be re-distributed to the district councils and in the
first year it has been agreed that this will be re-distributed as per the current allocations from
the Department for Communities and Local Government, there is also a clear message that
the Clinical Commissioning Groups may also wish to increase the funding available for
adaptations.
Big Switch and Save - Karen Hill
The second Big Switch and Save campaign closed on 18 November 2013.
The contract with ichoosr ends in March and a decision needs to be made as to whether the
Council will continue to support the Norfolk Big Switch and Save. There is no cost to the
Council other than the resource it makes available to assist residents and any publicity and
promotion of the scheme. The Council does however receive an introduction fee for
residents who switch and this will offset any costs.
The Norfolk authorities have discussed the possibility of having one annual switch
opportunity in the early autumn and linking the promotion of this with other countywide
initiatives in particular Warm and Well.
Southrepps Energy Event – Saturday 15 March – Karen Hill
The Council has previously undertaken to support local communities in holding energy
events. An Energy Event is being held in Southrepps on Saturday 15 March and the Council
has been invited to attend the event and to provide information on energy efficiency and fuel
poverty initiatives. The event will also be supported by Norfolk Rural Community Council.
Norfolk County Council Community Services Overview and Scrutiny Fuel Poverty Panel –
Karen Hill
Norfolk County Council’s Community Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee set up a
Fuel Poverty Panel in July 2013 to examine;
Reasons why Norfolk has the highest level of fuel poverty in East Anglia
Services currently working to alleviate fuel poverty
4
17
What more could be done by the County Council and other organisations and agencies
to alleviate fuel poverty
A wide range of organisations and agencies attended to give evidence to the panel including
the district councils, the Norfolk Alliance (housing providers), Eastern Landlords (private
landlords), the Federation of Master Builders, Age UK Norfolk, the Norfolk Community
Foundation, Norfolk Rural Community Council and a number of services within the County
Council. The largest energy companies, UK Power Networks and National Grid were also
invited to attend but did not respond to the invitation.
The panel produced a report and made 14 recommendations, 5 of which were to be
delivered by district councils;
That all County Council departments, district councils, housing associations, NHS and
third sector organisations and agencies who send staff into people’s homes make use of
the Warm and Well e-learning module and ensure that staff are signposting people at
risk of fuel poverty toward the available help
That the district councils and Norfolk Rural Community Council continue to promote
collective switch and save and that Norfolk County Council also helps to promote future
rounds of the Big Switch and Save
The housing associations, district councils with housing stocks and private landlords
ensure that new tenants are given clear written instructions for their boiler and central
heating system and that one to one instruction is given where necessary
That district councils consider allowing their logo to be used in promotion of the Green
Deal in their area
That the district council’s consider each others’ HECAs (Home Energy Conservation Act
reports) and whether some of their neighbours’ ideas would work in their area
. All districts were asked to confirm their acceptance of the recommendations with comments
on any which were already being implemented and if any are not accepted to explain why by
14 February. The Council has responded to accept the recommendations.
Further statistically information in relation to Disabled Facilities Grants and the Big Switch
and Save is appended to this report.
5
18
Overview and Scrutiny Committee
12 March 2014
OVERVIEW AND SCRUTINY UPDATE
Summary:
This report updates the Committee on progress with
topics in its agreed work programme (attached at
Appendix A) and invites Members to identify any
arising items for future meetings. The Scrutiny
Committee’s working style and role is attached at
Appendix B.
Conclusions:
That progress is being made in some areas, others
need to be monitored and opportunities for scrutiny
should be discussed.
Recommendations:
That members should consider any follow-up
actions required on these topics.
Cabinet Member(s):
Ward(s) affected
Mr R Oliver
All
Contact Officer:
Telephone number:
Email:
Emma Denny
01263 516010
emma.denny@north-norfolk.gov.uk
1.
Introduction
The Scrutiny Update report is a standing item on all Overview and Scrutiny
Committee agendas. The report updates Members on progress made with
topics on its agreed work programme and provides additional information
which Members may have requested at a previous meeting.
2.
Progress on topics since the last meeting
2.1
Car parking update
Following the discussions regarding the car parking review document at the
Overview and Scrutiny meeting held on 15 January 2014 officers were asked
to provide the following information;
The resolution to produce a comprehensive review of car parking, covering
the following aspects of:
a) The cost of enforcement versus the income to the authority, particularly
with regards to evening tariffs, seasonal income, and geographical areas
(inland versus coastal tariffs).
b) The cost benefit of each car park with a map.
c) To fully consider the viability of the introduction of seasonal charging.
It is proposed to bring forward the additional information in a report to the
Overview and Scrutiny meeting to be held on 20 May 2014.
19
Overview and Scrutiny Committee
2.2
12 March 2014
Police and Crime Commissioner
At the request of members, the Police and Crime Commissioner will be
attending the Overview & Scrutiny Committee meeting on 19th June.
2.3
Equalities Data Report
Rather than bring the full Equalities Data Annual report to the Committee for
consideration, as we did last year, it was felt that the best approach would be
to direct members to the draft version on the website. It can be accessed via
the following link:
http://www.northnorfolk.org/community/9388.asp
If member have any queries regarding this document please let me know and
I will forward them on to the relevant officer.
2.4
Norfolk Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee – outcomes and
actions
The latest list of outcomes and actions from the NHOSC is attached at
Appendix C.
3.
Internal Boards
A summary of the Internal Boards, together with their terms of reference and
a covering note from the Monitoring Officer is attached as a separate
document.
4.
The Work Programme and Future Topics
Members are reminded that the April meeting of the Committee is set aside to
look at the work programme for the forthcoming year.
The current work programme is attached at Appendix A. Please note that
some items have been moved to make sure that the schedule for each
meeting is not too heavy.
20
Appendix A
OVERVIEW AND SCRUTINY COMMITTEE WORK PROGRAMME 2013/2014
Period March 2014 – October 2014
March
Presentation on the Ambulance
Service
Annual Action Plan 2014/15
Budget Monitoring Period 10
Health Update
Equalities Data Annual report
April
East of England Ambulance Service
Requested
Julie Cooke
Tom FitzPatrick
Malcolm Fry
Wyndham Northam
Annual
Council Approval
Cabinet Approval
Cyclical
Sonia Shuter
Angie Fitch-Tillett
Julie Cooke
Tom FitzPatrick
Sheila Oxtoby
Tom FitzPatrick
Cyclical (info only)
Annual (info only)
Internal Boards – to cover
Functions/powers, who sits on
them, and where the minutes go
WORK
PROGRAMME
PRESENTATION BY THE
David Johnson
MONITORING OFFICER ON
Emma Denny
PROCESS AND GOVERNANCE
Tessa Gilder-Smith
Request by Committee
member (info only)
Housing Allocations Scheme
Annual (Requested)
SETTING
Development
May
Energy Strategy
Update on Tourism across the
Nicola Turner
Trevor Ivory
Steve Blatch
John Lee
Jill Fisher
21
Council Decision
Requested
District – overview of the 2013
season. Include figures for
Mundesley & Wells TICs.
Challenges & progress in
addressing shortcomings. To
include presentation on the
DMO.
Planning service – Overview &
future
Car Parking Update Following
Scrutiny Recommendation
Business Transformation
Project- Six Monthly Update
New Telephony System
(Business Transformation
Stream)
Revs and Bens Shared Service
Update
Russell Wright
(Moved from March)
Nicola Baker
Benjie Cabbell-Manners
Duncan Ellis
Rhodri Oliver
Nick Baker
Tom FitzPatrick
Nick Baker
Russell Wright
Moved from March
Steve Blatch
Wyndham Northam
Cabinet item (O&S for
information)
Enforcement Board update- to
include an update on the Empty
Homes Policy with information
included on the impact of
Council Tax premiums on
reducing empty homes.
Steve Hems
Nicola Turner
Nick Baker
Cyclical and requested.
Requested
Requested by the
committee
Requested (For information
Only)
June
Also information on derelict
land and derelict shops.
Big Society Fund – Annual
Trevor Ivory
Rob Young
22
Annual (info only)
Review
Trevor Ivory
October
Leisure Services – an overview Karl Read
of the leisure services across
the District – to include
costings, input by stakeholders,
profit etc.
Also figures on running of Pier
Theatre and Openwide contract
Profile of those using leisure
centres
Requested by the
committee
TBC
Customer Service Update
Customer Access Strategy
Nick Baker
Russell Wright
23
Annual
Appendix B
Working Style of the Scrutiny Committee
Independence
Members of the Scrutiny Committee will not be subject to whipping arrangements by party groups.
Member leadership
Members of the Committee will take the lead in selecting topics for scrutiny and in questioning
witnesses. The Committee will expect members of Cabinet, rather than officers, to take the main
responsibility for answering the Committee’s questions about topics, which relate mainly to the
Council’s activities.
A constructive atmosphere
Meetings of the Committee will be constructive, and not judgmental, accepting that effective
scrutiny is best achieved through challenging and constructive enquiry. People giving evidence at
the Committee should not feel under attack.
Respect and trust
Meetings will be conducted in a spirit of mutual respect and trust.
Openness and transparency
The Committee’s business will be open and transparent, except where there are sound reasons
for protecting confidentiality. In particular, the minutes of the Committee’s meetings will explain
the discussion and debate in a balanced style, so that they could be understood by those who
were not present.
Consensus
Members of the Committee will work together and, while recognizing political allegiances, will
attempt to achieve consensus and agreed recommendations.
Impartial and independent officer advice
Officers who advise and support the Committee will give impartial and independent advice,
recognizing the importance of the Scrutiny Committee in the Council’s arrangements for
governance, as set out in its Constitution.
Regular review
There will be regular reviews of how the scrutiny process is working, and a willingness to change
if it is not working well.
Programming and planning
The Committee will agree the topics to be included in its published work programme and the
extent of the investigation to be undertaken in relation to resources, and the witnesses to be
invited to give evidence.
Managing time
The Committee will attempt to conclude the business of each meeting in reasonable time. The
order of business will be arranged as far as possible to minimize the demands on the time of
witnesses.
26
24
Appendix C
Outcomes and Actions
Norfolk Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee (NHOSC)
27 February 2014
Agenda Report Title
Item
Number
Outcomes and Actions
Action By Whom
5.
The Chairman tabled proposed revisions to the terms of reference for
Great Yarmouth and Waveney Joint Health Scrutiny Committee.
Members of NHOSC to send any comments to Maureen Orr by 16
April 2014.
Members of
NHOSC
NHOSC agreed to make the following comments to the Health and
Wellbeing Board regarding the draft strategy:-
Lucy MacLeod /
Maureen Orr
6.
Chairman’s announcements
Norfolk Health and Wellbeing
Strategy 2014-17
(a) Integration, making services more joined up for those receiving
them, is one of the overarching goals of the Health and
Wellbeing Strategy 2014-17 but the County Council has
recently taken the decision to end a contract with Norfolk and
Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust (NSFT) for integrated mental
health and social care for around 1,600 people per year. In
view of this, will the Health and Wellbeing Board specifically
address the need for integrated mental health and social care
services in the Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2014-17?
(b) Data protection issues can be an obstacle to integrated
services. It is very important for the Strategy to address these
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Appendix C
issues.
(c) The Strategy needs to be clear on how outcomes will be
measured and to start with adequate baseline data.
(d) There needs to be clarity on how the priorities and overarching
goals of the Strategy and the action plans associated with it will
be communicated from Board level to ‘floor’ level.
(e) It is important for the Health and Wellbeing Board to be
particularly aware of looked after children, for whom the local
authority is a corporate parent, and to put emphasis on their
wellbeing as part of the Strategy.
A copy of Lucy MacLeod’s presentation to be circulated to NHOSC
Members.
Maureen Orr
Lucy MacLeod to send a briefing to the district councils setting out the
broad priorities and goals in the Health and Wellbeing Strategy.
Lucy MacLeod
NHOSC suggested that the District Councils would welcome specific
targets in the strategy as to what was expected of them and in this
respect it was noted that, when finalised, the strategy would include
hyper-links to District Council strategy documents.
NHOSC also suggested that the District Councils would welcome
regular briefing notes on the activities of the Health and Wellbeing
Board.
Lucy MacLeod is already arranging meetings with all the district
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Appendix C
council Chief Executives to discuss the Health and Wellbeing Strategy
2014-17 and how best to work with the district councils.
NHOSC also suggested that it is important of keeping Parish and
Town Councils informed of developments on public health related
issues.
NHOSC asked for the Health and Wellbeing Board to update it on
progress with the 2014-17 Strategy on 4 September 2014. NHOSC
would like the Chairman, or another representative of the Board, to
accompany the Director of Public Health on that occasion.
7.
Forward work programme
The following changes to the forward work programme were
approved:Delayed Discharge from Hospital in Norfolk – the report of the joint
task & finish group to be received at a later meeting (i.e. May or July
2014).
Use of the Liverpool Care Pathway in Norfolk’s hospitals – an update
on practices regarding end of life care in hospital to be received later
in the year (i.e. after 17 April 2014)
Wheelchair provision by the NHS – to be brought forward to 17 April
2014 meeting.
Hospital complaints processing and reporting – added to the forward
work programme for 29 May 2014.
Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2014-17 – a progress update to be
27
Lucy MacLeod
Appendix C
received on 4 September 2014.
Copied to:Representatives attending the NHOSC meeting for NHS / other organisations
Chairman of NHOSC
District Council Members of NHOSC
Member Support Officer - Christine Byles
CCG engagement contacts (x5)
Health and Wellbeing Board support officer – Linda Bainton
Healthwatch Norfolk – Chris MacDonald
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