Please contact: Emma Denny
Please email: emma.denny@north-norfolk.gov.uk Please direct dial on: 01263 516010
12 March 2013
A meeting of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee of North Norfolk District Council will be held
in the Council Chamber at the Council Offices, Holt Road, Cromer on Wednesday 20 March
2013 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. Coffee will be available in the staff restaurant at 9.30 a.m.
and at the break.
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, Mr P Moore, Mr J H PerryWarnes, Mr R Reynolds, Mr E Seward, Mr B Smith, Mr N Smith, Mr R 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 – 9.40)
To approve as correct records, the minutes of the meeting of the Overview and Scrutiny
Committee held on 20 February 2013.
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 any requests made by non-executive Members of the Council, and notified to
the Monitoring Officer with seven clear working days notice, to include an item on the
agenda of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee.
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 10)
To discuss the Cabinet Work Programme and to consider the programme of business for
Cabinet, Overview and Scrutiny, Audit and Full Council.
11.
OVERVIEW AND SCRUTINY UPDATE
(Page 13)
(Appendix A – p.17) (Appendix B –p.19) (Appendix C – p.22) (Appendix D – p.25)
(9.40 – 10.10)
Summary:
This report updates the Committee on progress with topics in
its agreed work programme (attached at Appendix C) and
invites Members to identify any arising items for future
meetings. The Scrutiny Committee’s working style and role is
attached at Appendix D.
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.
12.
Cabinet Member(s):
Ward(s) affected
Mr R Oliver
All
Contact Officer
telephone number
and email:
Emma Denny
01263 516010
emma.denny@north-norfolk.gov.uk
ANNUAL ACTION PLAN 2013-14
(Cabinet Agenda 4th March p. 34)
(Updated Appendix E – p. 26)
(10.10 – 10.40am)
Summary:
Conclusions:
This report presents the Annual Action Plan for 2013-14.
A rigorous development process has resulted in a balanced and
effective Annual Action Plan for 2013-14 and associated
performance targets to deliver the priorities and objectives as
laid out in the Corporate Plan 2012-2015
Recommendations: I propose that you approve the Annual Action Plan 2013-14
as set out in Appendix D and the targets and
recommendations for performance indicators as set out in
Appendix E.
Cabinet Member(s)
Ward(s) affected
Contact Officer:
Telephone no:
Email:
13.
All
All
Helen Thomas
01263 516214
Helen.thomas@north-norfolk.gov.uk
BUDGET MONITORING REPORT 2012/13 – PERIOD 10
(Cabinet Agenda 4 March 2013 – p. 12)
(10.40 – 11.00am)
Summary:
This report summarises the budget monitoring position for the
revenue account and capital programme to the end of January
2013.
14.
Conclusions:
The overall position at the end of period 10 shows a forecast
under spend of £18,935 for the current financial year on the
revenue account. The overall position will continue to be
monitored for the remaining periods of the current financial year.
Recommendations:
It is recommended that:
1) Cabinet note the contents of the report and the current
budget monitoring position;
2) Cabinet note the current position in relation to the 2012/13
capital programme, and approve the amendments to the
capital schemes as identified in paragraph 6.3.
Reasons for
Recommendations:
To update Members on the current budget monitoring position for
the Council.
Cabinet Member(s)
Ward(s) affected
Contact Officer:
Telephone no:
Email:
Cllr W Northam
All
Karen Sly
01263 516243
Karen.sly@north-norfolk.gov.uk
HEALTH STRATEGY UPDATE
(Page 28)
(11.15 – 11.45am)
This report provides an update on some of the strategic and multiagency work as well as
direct services that the Council provides which impact on health and well - being.
(Source: Sonia Shuter, Health Improvement Officer, sonia.shuter@north-norfolk.gov.uk,
tel: 01263 516173 and Karl Read, Sports and Leisure Services Manager, karl.read@northnorfolk.gov.uk, 01263 516002)
15.
ANNUAL EQUALITY REPORT
(Page 37)
(Appendix F – electronic only)
(11.45 – 12.15)
Summary:
The Equality Act 2010 requires the Council to publish equality data,
on an annual basis, demonstrating how it fulfils the public sector
equality duty. The data is appended and the report highlights areas
of work to ensure full compliance with this particular aspect of the
Act’s specific duties.
Conclusions:
The Overview and Scrutiny Committee should note the publication
of equality data and work being progressed to address data gaps.
Recommendations: The report recommends that Committee notes the report.
Reasons for
To ensure the Overview and Scrutiny Committee is aware of the
Recommendations: publication of the Council’s equality data.
Cabinet Member(s)
Ward(s) affected
Contact Officer:
Telephone no:
Email:
Cllr T FitzPatrick
All
Kate Sullivan
01263 516052
Kate.sullivan@north-norfolk.gov.uk
16.
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.”
17.
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 20 February
2013 in the Council Chamber, Council Offices, Holt Road, Cromer at 9.30 am.
Members Present:
Committee:
Mr E Seward (Chairman)
Ms V R Gay
Mrs A Green
Mr B Smith
Mr R Smith
Mrs A Claussen-Reynolds
Mr R Reynolds
Mr N Smith
Officers in
Attendance:
The Chief Executive, Corporate Director (NB), the Head of Finance, the
Head of Organisational Development, the Policy and Performance
Management Officer, the Sustainability Assistant and the Scrutiny Officer.
Members in
Attendance:
Mrs L Brettle, Mr P W High, Mr R Oliver, Miss B Palmer, Mrs A Sweeney,
Mr S Ward, Mr G Williams and Mr D Young
Democratic Services Officer (IV)
135 APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE
Mr B Jarvis, Mr P W Moore, Mr J H Perry-Warnes, Mr P Terrington and Mr M Baker
(who had been nominated as a substitute for Mr Terrington).
136 SUBSTITUTES
Miss B Palmer for Mr J H Perry-Warnes and Mr D Young for Mr P W Moore.
137 PUBLIC QUESTIONS
None received.
138 MINUTES
The minutes of the meeting of the Committee held on 16 January 2013 were approved
as a correct record and signed by the Chairman.
139 ITEMS OF URGENT BUSINESS
None received.
140 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST
Overview and Scrutiny Committee
20 February 2013
1
None received.
141 PETITIONS FROM MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC
None received.
142 CONSIDERATION OF ANY MATTER REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE BY A
MEMBER
None received.
143 RESPONSES OF THE COUNCIL OR THE CABINET TO THE COMMITTEE’S
REPORTS OR RECOMMENDATIONS
None received.
144 THE FORWARD PLAN AND DEMOCRATIC SERVICES WORK PROGRAMME
The report was noted.
145 OVERVIEW AND SCRUTINY UPDATE
The Scrutiny Officer provided an update on the costs of the Revenues and Benefits data
transfer back to North Norfolk. Costs remained within the overall budget of £30,000.
A response was still awaited to the outstanding request for details of a typical day at the
Cromer Ambulance Station. A further ambulance had now been made available, but
staffing difficulties had prevented its take up thus far.
The Chairman reported on the meeting of the North Norfolk Transport Task and Finish
Group. A proposal from the meeting that a more integrated approach be taken to the
funding of community transport was currently under consideration. It was noted that the
Leader and Deputy Leader had agreed to meet with representatives of the organisations
involved prior to a report to Cabinet. The minutes of future meetings of the Task and
Finish Group would be brought to the Overview and Scrutiny Committee.
Members were thanked for their responses to the request for information on mobile
phone reception black spots. Details would be forwarded to Norfolk County Council.
Following a comment from Mr D Young, the reference to “Upper Kelling” on the list was
amended to “Kelling”.
A report from the Big Society Review Panel would be going to Cabinet in April and the
Overview and Scrutiny Committee in May.
On the subject of Disposal of Affordable Dwellings, there was general agreement with
the Chairman’s observation that Members should be kept abreast of Victory Housing
Trust’s potential disposals. The Chairman was surprised at the suggestion that no
objection would be raised to the disposal of three-bedroomed properties, other than in
specific circumstances. He asked that the Housing Team Leader-Strategy be invited to
attend the next meeting to discuss this matter.
Overview and Scrutiny Committee
20 February 2013
2
146 ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY UPDATE
The Sustainability Assistant gave an update on activities on corporate sustainability over
a period of just over six months, as well as a revised edition of the Strategy designed to
cover the two years from April 2013. The Strategy had been due for review and would
be reported to Cabinet for approval. Meanwhile comments were welcomed.
The Committee noted recent staffing changes. The Sustainability Assistant was now
sole contact for Environmental Sustainability and had moved from Environmental Health
to the Planning Policy Team forming part of the new Economic and Community
Development Section.
Among the actions reported, the officer highlighted projects contributing to a 7.7%
reduction in carbon dioxide emissions since 2008/9, leading to savings of around
£22,000 per annum on head office electricity bills; the Green Deal (the Government
flagship policy), where a watching brief was being kept; the Greenbuild exhibition event
organised by the Council; the initiation and implementation of a project to identify and
reduce water-associated costs, with Anglian Water due to report back next week; the
RevActive business resource efficiency support project, now 75% complete; and
Collective Energy Switching.
Mr G Williams, referring to a large number of sustainable energy development proposals
currently being experienced, thought that the NNDC Planning Policy on promoting
renewable energy, although assisting in an enabling role, provided insufficient guidance
on how to deal with planning applications for renewable energy schemes. Mr Oliver
agreed that it would be useful to provide additional planning policy guidance in order to
give more clarification to officers and Members involved in making planning decisions.
The Corporate Director explained that there may be a fundamental problem in doing
this, in that the level of detailed guidance had to take account of national policy (which
was currently in favour of such development) and the requirement for Planning
Inspectorate approval may not be met if such local guidance conflicted with national
guidance or policy. Therefore, any proposal for local policy would need to carefully
balance these issues.
Ms V Gay queried the target of 33% reduction in carbon dioxide emissions by 2014,
which had appeared to be optimistic when the current Carbon Management Plan was
introduced. The Sustainability Assistant believed there had been an error in the first
year’s reporting. This had led to a higher carbon reduction figure being initially reported
in that year, which had subsequently been reduced. He undertook to check and provide
a written response to Members. Ms Gay then expressed concerns insofar as the
Strategy was aspirational, concentrating on ends rather than means, and wondered
whether the means to achieve these ends were available. The Corporate Director, in
confirming that there were no plans to fill the vacant position, explained that many of the
points of strategy introduced some five years ago were now embedded in practice,
rather than forming specific projects. The authority was now a lot more energy
conscious, for example in the procurement and operation of the waste and leisure
contracts, looking at business support and generally adopting a more ‘enabling’
approach for residents. He agreed that the figures mentioned by Ms Gay, including the
7.7% reduction in emissions so far, needed to be checked as soon as possible; but in
any case the authority had to remain consistent in continuing to seek savings in energy
costs. A significant reduction had already been made and other avenues, for example
water costs, as mentioned above, were being explored.
Mr R Reynolds enquired as to progress on Collective Energy Switching and whether
there had been any feedback from town and parish councils. The Sustainability
Overview and Scrutiny Committee
20 February 2013
3
Assistant said that letters had been sent to local councils and a number of responses
had been received from those who wished to promote both Energy Switching and
Energy Boxes. Other Members commented that they had attended parish council
meetings within their wards and as yet had not heard the matter raised. In reply to a
question from Mrs Green, it was agreed that the letter sent to town and parish councils
would be copied to Members.
Collective Energy Switching was being entered into by five Norfolk District Councils,
drawing on the best practice and experience of Norwich City Council in this field. The
project would use the brand name ‘Norfolk Big Switch and Save’.
Mr D Young observed that a large number of participants were needed in order to make
the scheme work. He wondered whether there was provision for other people to join
once a scheme had been implemented. The Sustainability Assistant then explained the
process for introducing a scheme, involving an application window where residents
expressed an initial interest. When that window closed, a national ‘reverse auction’
would be carried out in April; where the best available tariff from energy suppliers would
be offered to those signing up. Following completion of this process, it would be possible
to set up further windows for application and collective agreements to be offered. The
requirement upon the individual was to sign up for one year. There was no provision for
an individual to join at any other time, to take advantage of any preferential rate
currently on offer.
Mr N Smith was concerned that Energy Switching was placing supply into the hands of
a monopoly and asked what could be done to ensure that the scheme remained
competitive. The Sustainability Assistant explained that the company responsible for
assembling the collective contract would be going to the energy market and inviting
suppliers to tender. The lowest tariff offered would be accepted. More schemes could be
advertised at a time chosen by the Councils involved.
In reply to a further question from Mr Reynolds on reduced office energy costs, the
Sustainability Officer confirmed that savings had been extended to other Council
buildings and were not restricted to the headquarters office. Following a request from
the Chairman, it was agreed that Members would be given details of the other properties
being considered for energy/water reduction measures.
Mrs A Claussen-Reynolds referred to the £22,000 annual saving on electricity bills at the
head office and asked if it was possible to break this figure down. The Sustainability
Assistant said that it would be difficult to be specific within the cumulative effect of the
overall reduced electricity bill; he was, however, able to report on projects which it had
been technically unfeasible to pursue, eg insulation and to anticipate more cost effective
additional projects yet to be identified.
Mr R Smith pointed out that the Green Deal was an initiative still in its infancy. Firms first
had to be assessed before being able to participate. At present, nobody in the East of
England had signed up to the scheme and he wondered what could be done to
encourage businesses to become involved. The Corporate Director reported on
correspondence with Norman Lamb MP, which had elicited a positive response and
more information was now awaited from the Department of Energy and Climate Change.
The initiative seemed to lend itself more to urban areas, but it was possible that more
local interest could be generated by promotion through the Greenbuild event.
Overview and Scrutiny Committee
20 February 2013
4
RESOLVED
1. That the contents of the report be noted
2. That the Environmental Sustainability Strategy 2013-15 be noted
3. That future updates are presented to Overview and Scrutiny Committee annually
instead of six-monthly.
147 PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT – DELIVERY OF ANNUAL ACTION PLAN 2012/13
QUARTER 3
The Policy and Performance Management Officer introduced the report, which gave an
overview of progress in delivering the Annual Action Plan. The report showed issues
which had been identified as potentially affecting delivery and steps taken to address
these.
On AAP-HC01: encouragement of the development of neighbourhood planning, the
Chairman asked about the apparent lack of interest beyond that expressed by Holt
Town Council. The Chief Executive stated that a seminar had been held for town and
parish councils, when one or two of the councils represented had expressed interest.
The recent peer review had raised questions as to whether the District Council should
be more proactive. She added that funds were available to support this.
Ms Gay enquired as to progress on AAP-JB04: working with local businesses and
identifying funding to support apprenticeships and work experience. The Chief Executive
said that the Business Forum was holding an event which would be looking into what
needed to be done. She agreed to forward details to Members.
The Chairman asked what progress had been made in respect of AAP-LA01, relating to
the running of services by town and parish councils. The Chief Executive replied that a
paper would be coming forward to Council in April, bringing together all of the statutory
guidance. Dealing with the recent bid from Wells Town Council had shown that a clear
protocol was needed and also helped identify where a procurement exercise would be
necessary. In response to the Chairman, she pointed out that the list of community
assets that might be made subject to this process would include County Council and
privately-owned facilities, as well as the District Council’s properties.
In response to a comment from Mr G Williams that action to maximise development
opportunities (AAP-HB02) should be a priority, the Chief Executive explained that this
had been delayed, but a lot of work was going on. There were currently two major
applications where Section 106 agreements and possible clawback were being
investigated.
Mr R Reynolds asked whether there were any guidelines or history as to the incidence
of redundancies to assist in advice and support to those affected (AAP-JB02). The Chief
Executive said she could circulate information on individuals and companies who had
received support under this activity.
The Chairman referred to Activities AAP-LB04 and LB05 relating to working with key
organisations in North Walsham to implement actions identified through the “Leadership
of Place” project and in respect of the realisation of opportunities for North Walsham
Town Centre. He regretted that it had not been possible so far to find a suitable site for
town centre redevelopment.
Overview and Scrutiny Committee
20 February 2013
5
Mrs A Claussen-Reynolds enquired as to progress on AAP-VE04 relating to the
encouragement and rewarding of staff. The Chief Executive indicated that this would slip
into 2013/14, when it would form part of a workforce development strategy. In response
to a further question from Mrs Claussen-Reynolds, the Chief Executive felt that current
staff morale was mixed. She regularly talked to staff, individually and through UNISON;
concerns expressed were less related to pay and grading than to uncertainty in their
roles, against an unpromising economic background. It was, however, clear that staff
wanted to be here and were proud of what they did. This view was confirmed by the
Corporate Director, who said it was clear, through team briefings, that staff just wanted
to get on with their jobs and that change affected their certainty. An Investors In People
assessment was due in June and this would provide a clearer picture. Mr N Smith
informed the Committee that the subject of morale had come up at the recent Joint Staff
Consultative Committee meeting; he had reported at the time on a survey which had
revealed that North Norfolk staff showed a higher level of positivity than the average
findings indicated.
Ms V Gay pointed out that sickness absence rates were rising. The Chief Executive was
aware of every instance of long term sickness; not all were stress-related and each case
was being dealt with individually. Following an enquiry as to whom staff could talk to
about any problems, the Head of Organisational Development said that staff could come
to Human Resources or contact the employee assistance programme run by Validium.
(details on the intranet).
RESOLVED
That the report be noted.
148 TREASURY MANAGEMENT STRATEGY STATEMENT AND INVESTMENT
STRATEGY 2013/14 to 2015/16
In the unavoidable absence of Portfolio Holder Mr W Northam, Mr R Oliver presented
this item, along with those at minutes 149 and 150 below, referring to the detailed
reports accompanying the agenda for the Cabinet meeting on 4 February.
The annual preparation of a Strategy Statement and Prudential Indicators was a
requirement of the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy’s Code of
Practice.
The Chairman pointed out that, in future, this would be considered by the Audit
Committee.
In considering the Annual Investment Strategy, the Chairman and other Members
expressed interest in the option to provide loan finance to housing associations. The
Chief Executive explained that this was a concept under investigation, with various legal
aspects and procurement issues to be explored and had the potential to unlock the
delivery of a mix of housing on land currently unavailable, thereby supporting one of the
authority’s corporate objectives. It was anticipated that a full report would be forthcoming
within six months.
Following a question from Mr D Young, the Head of Finance outlined the factors to be
taken into account in investing with LAMIT, which sought a total fixed investment, with
the option to withdraw from the arrangement, and the fixed term loan that would be
agreed with Registered Providers. The Chief Executive added that, bearing in mind
fluctuations in value, capital investment with LAMIT required the confidence to enter a
minimum three year term.
Overview and Scrutiny Committee
20 February 2013
6
RECOMMENDED TO FULL COUNCIL
That the Treasury Management Strategy Statement and Investment Strategy and
Prudential Indicators, for 2013/14 to 2015/16, are approved.
149 BUDGET MONITORING REPORT 2012/13 – PERIOD 9
The report was presented by Mr R Oliver, who drew attention to various aspects on
behalf of the Portfolio Holder. A projected overspend of £19,400 on the revenue budget
in the current period was being closely monitored and achievement of the overall budget
for the complete financial year was on course.
The Head of Finance pointed out that the figure shown in both paragraphs 5.2 and 6.1
of the report should be corrected to £19,400 (projected overspend).
The Chairman mentioned the removal of the budget for Community Transport, which he
presumed was related to the proposed transfer of responsibilities, as discussed earlier.
The Chief Executive pointed out that this was now funded through the Big Society. A
proposal affecting this funding was coming forward in April and, in the meantime, the
budget was protected.
In reply to a question from Mr D Young on Citizens Advice Bureaux funding, the Chief
Executive explained that this was retained within the existing budget. Work was
proceeding on a service level agreement with the Bureaux.
Mr Young asked how much of the increased revenue on car parking was due to fixed
penalty charges. The Head of Finance said that details could be provided. The Chief
Executive thought it would be helpful to provide Members with a full breakdown of car
parking charges and this was agreed.
RESOLVED
That the contents of the report and the current budget monitoring position be noted.
150 2013/14 BASE BUDGET AND PROJECTIONS 2014/15 to 2016/17
Mr Oliver, in presenting the report, mentioned the factors and assumptions which had
affected budget preparation. The Government grant settlement had reflected Council
tax reform, the Council tax support scheme and changes to business rates. A base
budget for the next year, requiring no Council tax increase and showing a surplus of
£240,009, was being recommended. The report outlined the risks facing the Council in
setting the budget and forecasting future spending plans and resources.
The Chairman referred to the effects of the continued downward pressure on public
finances as reflected in the new funding arrangements described in the report. The fact
that the distribution formula was to be frozen for seven years meant that any adverse
impact contained in it would remain until 2020. In reply to his enquiry as to the inherent
risks in the revised approach to National Non-Domestic Rates, taking effect in April
2013, the Head of Finance explained the mechanism whereby 50% of the income
collected would be retained locally and split with the County Council. The effect of this
on the budget bottom line would need to be monitored closely.
Mr Young was concerned at the damping figure in the provisional settlement and its
Overview and Scrutiny Committee
20 February 2013
7
effect in masking changes to sparsity indicators. He noted that this had been raised by
the Council in its response to the provisional settlement and wondered whether there
had been any reaction. The Head of Finance stated that SPARSE, the organisation for
rural authorities, had made representations and, in the final settlement, the Government
had recognised that more needed to be done to help such areas. Unfortunately the
one-off funding made available did not make up for that lost through the damping
mechanism. The Chief Executive explained that this additional funding of £8.5 million
was in the form of a rural efficiency grant; pressure needed to be continued in order to
influence next year’s outcome.
In reply to a question from Ms V Gay on savings on dual use sports centres contained
in the summary for the years 2013/14 to 2016/17, the Chief Executive said that the
annual saving of £40,000 related to Cromer and Stalham and the savings at these
facilities through revised arrangements. The renegotiation of the North Walsham
agreement was anticipated to bring the total saving up to £80,000. In reply to a question
from Mr R Smith regarding the Splash centre at Sheringham, which was managed
through DC Leisure, the Chief Executive explained that the contract was being
reviewed along with the future of the facility. The contract ended in March 2014 and
included provision for an extension, which would probably be taken up for 6-12 months.
A report would be submitted to Cabinet before then. Members would be kept fully
informed.
Mr R Smith enquired as to the income from the sale of Lockerbie Flats. The Head of
Finance replied that the £1.3 million from the sale would be treated as a capital receipt
and incorporated into the capital programme. Part had been earmarked for the Skate
Park.
On the subject of investment returns, and in response to a question from Mr Reynolds,
the Head of Finance confirmed that the assumption had been made in the budget that
returns would remain low for the forthcoming years.
Mr Young sought further details on various figures in the General Fund Summary. The
Head of Housing explained that the VAT Shelter contribution from the Capital Projects
Reserve was linked to the Capital Programme and that the proposed contribution to the
Big Society Fund was subject to the continuation of the current arrangement.
The Chief Executive replied to an enquiry from Mrs Claussen-Reynolds regarding the
increase showing for Organisational Development in the 2015/16 projection by
explaining that this budget head covered Electoral Services and the figure included
provision for the elections due that year.
RECOMMENDED TO FULL COUNCIL:
1. Approval of
a. The 2013/14 revenue account budget as outlined at Appendix A of the report and
that the surplus of £240,009 be allocated to the general reserve.
b. The demand on the Collection Fund, subject to any amendments as a result of the
final precepts, be:
(a) £5,082,610 for District purposes;
(b) £1,450,000 (subject to confirmation of the final precepts) for Parish/Town
Council precepts
c. The fees and charges as included in Appendix D of the report with effect from 1
April 2013.
Overview and Scrutiny Committee
20 February 2013
8
d. The statement of and movement on the reserves as detailed in Appendix F of the
report, with the addition that £100,000 in the New Homes Bonus Reserve be used
in order to assist with the delivery of new housing and other economic measures.
e. The updated Capital Programme and financing for 2012/13 to 2015/16 as detailed
at Appendix G of the report.
f. The new capital bids as detailed at Appendix H to be financed from capital
receipts.
2. That Members note the current projections for 2014/15 to 2016/17.
3. That the Constitution be updated to reflect the arrangements for delegation of the
setting of fees and charges for the waste service to the Corporate Director, as set out
within paragraph 6.2 of the report, on a permanent basis.
151 GLOSSARY
Mrs Claussen-Reynolds asked whether it would be possible to incorporate a glossary of
terms into future agendas to assist Members in interpreting the numerous acronyms
referred to in reports. It was agreed that Democratic Services should look into this.
The meeting concluded at 12.42 pm.
____________________
Chairman
Overview and Scrutiny Committee
20 February 2013
9
North Norfolk District Council
Cabinet Work Programme
For the Period 01 March 2013 to 30 June 2013
Decision Maker(s)
Meeting
Date
Subject &
Summary
Cabinet
Member(s)
Corporate Plan
Priority`
Lead Officer
April 2013
Cabinet
15 April 2013
The Council’s
approach to
initiatives arising
from Community
Rights under
Localism’
Trevor Ivory
Localism
Robert Young
Coast & Community
Partnerships Manager
01263 516162
Cabinet
15 April 2013
Review of Big
Society Fund
Trevor Ivory
Localism (C)
Overview & Scrutiny
21 May 2013
Cabinet
15 April 2013
Louise
Wolsey
Cabinet
15 April 2013
Discretionary
Housing Payments
Policy
Community
Transport
Robert Young
Coast & Community
Partnerships Manager
01263 516162
Louise Wolsey
Trevor Ivory
Localism
Robert Young
Coast & Community
Partnerships Manager
01263 516162
May 2013
Cabinet
13 May 2013
Housing Renewal
Policy
Trevor Ivory
Housing &
Infrastructure
Overview & Scrutiny
21 May 2013
Karen Hill
Housing Team Leader
– Health & Wellbeing
01263 516183
Full Council
22 May 2013
Status
Key Decision
* Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972 (As amended by the Local Authorities (Access to Information) (Exempt Information)
(England) Order 2006)
10
North Norfolk District Council
Cabinet Work Programme
For the Period 01 March 2013 to 30 June 2013
Decision Maker(s)
Meeting
Date
Subject &
Summary
Cabinet
Member(s)
Cabinet
13 May 2013
MRF Procurement
John Lee
Full Council
22 May 2013
MRF – Award of
Contract
Nick Baker
Corporate Director
01263 516221
June 2013
Cabinet
10 June 2013
Outturn Report
Wyndham
Northam
Overview & Scrutiny
19 June 2013
Karen Sly
Head of Finance
01263 516243
Full Council
24 July 2013
Cabinet
10 June 2013
Debt Management
Annual Report
Wyndham
Northam
Cabinet
10 June 2013
Treasury
Management
Annual Report
Wyndham
Northam
Louise Wolsey
Revenues & Benefits
Services Manager
01263 516081
Karen Sly
Head of Finance
01263 516243
Full Council
July 2013
Cabinet
24 July 2013
Budget Monitoring
Period 4
Wyndham
Northam
8 July 2013
Corporate Plan
Priority`
Lead Officer
Status
Karen Sly
Head of Finance
01263 516243
Key Decision
* 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 2013 to 30 June 2013
Decision Maker(s)
Meeting
Date
Subject &
Summary
Cabinet
Member(s)
September 2013
Cabinet
2 Sept 2013
Overview & Scrutiny
11 Sept 2013
Investing in
Housing
Associations
Full Council
18 Sept 2013
Scrutiny
17 July 2013
Cabinet
2 Sept 2013
Full Council
To be confirmed
Cabinet
Corporate Plan
Priority`
Lead Officer
Status
Wyndham
Northam
Karen Sly
Head of Finance
01263 516243
Proposed
report – could
come to
Cabinet earlier
CCTV Working
Party –
recommendations
Rhodri Oliver
Nick Baker
Corporate Director
01263 516221
Cromer to
Winterton Study
Angie FitchTillett
Coast,
Countryside &
Built Heritage
Rob Goodliffe
Coastal Community
Projects Manager
01263 516321
Key Decision
* Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972 (As amended by the Local Authorities (Access to Information) (Exempt Information)
(England) Order 2006)
12
Overview and Scrutiny Committee
20 March 2013
Agenda Item No _11__
OVERVIEW AND SCRUTINY UPDATE
Summary:
This report updates the Committee on progress with
topics in its agreed work programme (attached at
Appendix C) and invites Members to identify any
arising items for future meetings. The Scrutiny
Committee’s working style and role is attached at
Appendix D.
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
and 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
Community Transport
This issue is time-sensitive. It is anticipated that discussions will be held with
community transport providers prior to a report going to Cabinet in April. As
there is no scheduled meeting of Overview and Scrutiny Committee in April,
the Chairman requested that Rob Young, the Coast and Community
Partnerships Manager attends the March meeting to update members on the
current situation.
2.2
Review of the Big Society Fund
This issue is also time-sensitive. As the Overview and Scrutiny Committee is
represented by two members on the Big Society Fund Review Panel, it was
felt that it was not necessary for a full report on their decision to come to
13
Overview and Scrutiny Committee
20 March 2013
Committee. Following a meeting of the Panel in March, a report will be going
to Cabinet in April making recommendations as to the future of the Big
Society Fund. The Coast and Community Partnerships Manager is attending
the Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting on 20th March to update
Members on the meeting of the Big Society Fund Review Panel.
2.3
Disposal of affordable dwellings
At the meeting on 20th February 2013, the Chairman requested that the Team
Leader – Housing Strategy attend the March meeting to provide further
information to Members on changes in the way the Council will respond to
Housing Association property disposals in the future. Having discussed the
issue with the Team Leader – Housing Strategy it was felt that she would not
be able to provide any further information to the Committee. The Chairman
has suggested that the following three options are now available to Members:
•
•
•
2.4
The Committee can accept the changes and monitor the situation and
the number of disposals
The Committee can request that Victory Housing contacts Members
directly for their comments before proceeding with a disposal
The Committee can recommend that additional resources are provided
within the Housing Team to ensure that Members can continue to be
notified prior to a disposal
Environmental Sustainability
At the Overview & Scrutiny meeting of 20th February 2013, Members
requested details of Council-owned assets and where carbon reduction
measures had been implemented. A full breakdown has been provided by the
Sustainability Assistant and is attached at Appendix A.
2.5
Information on redundancies
At the meeting on 20th February, a request was made for more information on
the number of individuals affected by redundancy who have been supported
by the North Norfolk Learning and Skills Project. John Morgan, the project
manager, has provided the following information:
As at end of February 2013, we have so far assisted 68 individuals who have
been affected by redundancy. Of these we have data on 23 who have been
supported into new employment. The employment details we have are
detailed in the table below:
QryRedundantcyEmployment201213 Notes
Roys North Walsham
Kier
18 hours pw
18 hours pw
agency four day shift work
14
Overview and Scrutiny Committee
20 March 2013
QryRedundantcyEmployment201213 Notes
Alan & Page in Shippham as a Forklift driver
Dalmeny House Sheringham
Heinz, through agency
Pike Partnership
CAB North Norfolk
Heinz factory operative
IchiBahn
Masons Burdell ft
Costessy recycling center on the Maintenance team
care work Woodspring House
NNDC benefits
Waitrose
MB Electrical
Beeston Hall School
employment Greggs
Trend Marine
NNUH adult social care team
2.5
Car Parking
In response to the request on income from car parking the Head of Finance
has included additional information in the latest budget monitoring report
(period 10) that went to Cabinet on 4th March, as this takes into account the
latest reported position ie at period 10. Further information was requested in
respect of season tickets for which the position at period 10 is outlined below:
2012/13 Season Ticket Information 2008/09 to P10 2012/13 Annual Half Year Quarterly Weekly Other 2008/2009 2009/2010 2010/2011 2011/12 2012/2013 to P10
(152,886.64) (158,818.62) (169,174.49)
(10,308.63) (10,101.56)
(10,509.07)
(11,833.80) (9,508.31)
(4,659.69) (5,097.85)
(5,635.50)
(6,195.80) (6,568.99)
(8,076.36) (8,104.18)
(6,079.24)
(7,906.28) (7,806.65)
2,846.97 849.26 800.50
(7,872.34) (3,545.31)
(173,084.35) (181,272.95) (190,597.80)
15
(162,188.11) (127,495.05)
(195,996.33) (154,924.31)
Overview and Scrutiny Committee
3.
20 March 2013
Norfolk Police and Crime Plan 2013-17
The Draft Police and Crime Plan 2013-17 has been submitted to the Norfolk
Police and Crime Panel for consideration before it is published on 31 March.
The draft plan is a strategic document and is the first Police and Crime Plan
for Norfolk. It defines how the Commissioner will approach business over this
crucially important first full year in office and sets out three objectives for
crime and disorder reduction in Norfolk (listed below) and objectives for
policing in Norfolk:
•
•
•
Reducing priority crime, anti-social behaviour and reoffending.
Reducing vulnerability, promote equality and support victims.
Reducing the need for service, through preventative and
restorative approaches and more joined up working with partners;
protecting the availability of front line resources.
North Norfolk District Council is represented at officer level on the Panel by
Steve Blatch and at member level by Richard Shepherd. If the Committee
wishes to be updated on the work of the Police and Crime Commissioner I
can arrange for regular feedback from the Panel to be provided.
4.
The latest set of outcomes and actions from the Norfolk Health Overview and
Scrutiny Committee are attached at Appendix B. I would draw Members’
attention to item 6: Ambulance Turnaround times at the Norfolk and Norwich
Hospital.
5.
Changes to the Work Programme and Future Topics
There is no meeting scheduled for the Committee in April. This is to allow
Members the opportunity to take time to consider the work programme for the
ensuing year. If members are in agreement we could hold a short informal
meeting to consider the work programme and which new topics if any, that
members would like to see included. The most suitable date seems to be 17th
April.
16
Appendix A
In the Overview & Scrutiny meeting of 20th Feb 2013, Members requested details of Council‐owned assets and where carbon reduction measures had been implemented. The chart below shows the breakdown of all carbon emissions from NNDC’s operations. The majority of emissions (44%) result from the three Leisure Centres (these have a high energy use, for instance due to the need to heat swimming pools etc.). After this, the refuse & grounds maintenance contract (operated by KIER) makes up 34% of our emissions, primarily due to the large amount of fuel used by the refuse trucks. Council‐owned buildings make up 18% of our emissions. The majority of measures to reduce our carbon emissions have been targeted at Council‐owned buildings (as demonstrated by the fact that the above 18% figure has been reduced from 22% before the Carbon Management Plan was implemented). Below is a list of Council properties and which measures have been implemented in each: Change in carbon emissions from 2008/9 to 2011/12 Location Head Office: 20% reduction Splash Leisure Centre 7% reduction Explanation The following carbon reduction measures were implemented: • Staff Energy Campaign • Voltage Optimisation • Server room ‘Free Cooling’ system • Insulation of boiler room flanges & valves • Server Virtualisation • Printer Rationalisation The following carbon reduction measures were implemented: • Voltage Optimisation • Installation of Variable Speed Drives 17
Appendix A
It should be noted that reductions in energy use have been made despite increased visitor numbers Victory Leisure Centre 15% reduction The following carbon reduction measures were implemented: • Voltage Optimisation • Installation of Variable Speed Drives • Building Management System improvements It should be noted that reductions in energy use have been made despite increased visitor numbers Fakenham Leisure 4% increase The following carbon reduction measures were Centre implemented: • Voltage Optimisation • Installation of Variable Speed Drives • Building Management System improvements It is unknown why an increase in energy use was seen at this site. It may be that this is as a result of increased visitor numbers. North Walsham New 41% reduction A reduction was seen at this site for unknown reasons. It Road may for example be as a result of reduced occupancy levels. Fakenham Connect 81% reduction The following carbon reduction measures were implemented: • Server room ‘Free Cooling’ system A particularly high reduction at this site is most likely due to infrequent meter readings, which led to a particularly high one‐off bill in the first year of the Carbon Management Plan. Tourist Information 58% increase No specific measures have been implemented at the Centres and NNIC Tourist Information Centres. An overall increase in Cromer emissions is most likely due to the fact that in the first year of the Carbon Management Plan, the Cromer TIC was replaced by the NNIC, which uses electricity instead of gas for its heating – a more carbon intense fuel. Public conveniences 25% reduction There are around 70 public conveniences and other and other small assets electricity‐using assets such as fountain pumps etc. owned by the Council. A reduction in the carbon emissions at these sites is likely due to some site closures, as well as ongoing replacement of older equipment (lights, hand dryers etc.) A full Carbon Emissions report for each year since the start of the Carbon Management plan, as reported to government, is available on our website at http://www.northnorfolk.org/environment/624.asp. A more detailed internal report detailing carbon emission increases and reductions every year and the reasons for these is available from the Sustainability Assistant on request. Note: Cllr Virginia Gay was correct in pointing out that the 7.7% carbon reduction figure cited for 2008/9 to 2011/12 sounded similar to an initially reported figure of 7.1% in 2009/10. Unfortunately the 7.1% figure was partially based on some incorrectly input data for Refuse Collection & Grounds Maintenance fuel use in the first year of reporting, which was corrected during auditing of the data and led to the revising of this 7.1% figure to 3%. 18
Appendix B
Outcomes and Actions
Norfolk Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee
7 March 2013
Agenda Report Title
Item
Number
Outcomes and Actions
Action By Whom
4.
Urgent business
NHOSC nominated Cllr James Joyce as a replacement substitute
Member for the Norfolk and Suffolk Joint Scrutiny Committee on
Radical Redesign of Mental Health Services 12 March 2013, should it
be necessary for a replacement substitute to attend to make up the
quorum of Norfolk Members.
Maureen Orr
6.
Ambulance turnaround times
at the Norfolk and Norwich
hospital
Agreed that the commissioners, N&N and ambulance service should
return to the Committee on 5 September 2013 to report on progress
with ambulance turnaround times at the N&N, including an update on
Project Domino.
Chris Cobb
Andrew Morgan
Di Chan
Oskan Edwardson
Dr Pam Chrispin
Jonathon Fagge
NB this is subject to the County Council’s decision on 25 March 2013
regarding the future of NHOSC and the Committee’s approval of the
forward work programme following the County Council election on 2
May 2013.
19
Appendix B
7.
Forward work programme
Agreed the forward work programme with the following revisions:-
Maureen Orr
Access to NHS dentistry to be postponed from 11 April to 30 May
meeting.
New health scrutiny regulations will be the first item on 11 April
agenda
Ambulance turnaround times at the Norfolk and Norwich hospital to be
added to 5 September 2013 agenda (with the proviso noted above).
8.
New health scrutiny
regulations
Item postponed to 11 April 2013 meeting.
9.
Nomination of formal link
Members between the
committee and clinical
commissioning groups
The following nominations were made for April, bearing in mind that
NHOSC will need to confirm or make new nominations after 2 May
2013 County Council election:-
Maureen Orr
North Norfolk CCG – Mr David Harrison (substitutes – Mr John Bracey
and Mr John Perry-Warnes)
South Norfolk CCG – Dr Nigel Legg
Great Yarmouth and Waveney CCG – Mrs Marlene Fairhead
West Norfolk CCG – Mr Michael Chenery of Horsbrugh (substitute –
Mr Tony Wright)
Norwich CCG – Mr David Bradford (substitute Mr Richard Bearman)
Members to be informed if the CCG to which they have been
nominated as NHOSC formal link member is meeting in public in April
2013.
20
Maureen Orr
Appendix B
Copied to:Chairman of Norfolk Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee (NHOSC)
District Council Members of NHOSC
Member Support Officer - Christine Byles
NHS Norfolk and Waveney
Norfolk LINk
21
Appendix C
OVERVIEW AND SCRUTINY COMMITTEE WORK PROGRAMME
2012/2013
GUIDANCE FOR REVIEWING THE WORK PROGRAMME
In setting future Scrutiny topics, the Committee is asked to:
a) Demonstrate the value any investigation would have to the Council’s Community
Leadership Role.
b) Consider the relationship any future topic may have with the work of the Cabinet’s Work
Programme and the Council’s Corporate Plan
c) Be mindful of the public’s priorities.
d) Provide reasons for the investigation (so that Officers/Witnesses can assist Members to
reach an outcome).
e) Consider the outcomes required before commencing an investigation.
f) Balance the need for new topics with existing items on the Scrutiny Work Programme.
g) Consider whether it would be helpful to time limit investigations or break down some topics
into smaller areas.
h) Provide sufficient notice, where possible, in order that the Cabinet Member with
responsibility for the subject, Officers and outside witnesses/attendees can fully assist the
Committee.
Date of
Meeting
Topic
March 20
2013
Budget
Monitoring
Period 10 (Jan –
March)
May 2013
Organisation/
Officer/
Responsible
Portfolio Holder
Karen
Sly/Wyndham
Northam
Links with
Corporate Plan
Notes
Delivering the
Vision E
Cyclical
All
6 monthly update
Health Strategy
Update
Angie FitchTillett/Sonia
Shuter
Annual Equality
Report
Kate Sullivan
Annual Action
Plan 2013/14
Helen Thomas
Delivering the
Vision
Car Park
Charges
Rhodri Oliver/
Duncan Ellis
Delivering the
Vision E
Review of the
Big Society
Fund
Housing
Renewal Policy
Rob Young/
Trevor Ivory
Localism
Annual report
Karen Hill/Trevor
Ivory
22
Review requested by
Members
Date of
Meeting
Topic
Performance
Management
June 2013
July 17
2013
Sept 25
2012
Jan 2014
TBA
Organisation/
Officer/
Responsible
Portfolio Holder
Helen
Thomas/Tom
FitzPatrick
Links with
Corporate Plan
Notes
Delivering the
Vision A - E
Quarterly update
Complaints,
Compliments
and
Suggestions
Tom
FitzPatrick/Estelle
Packham
Delivering the
Vision B
(Outturn Report)
Final Accounts
2011/12
Karen Sly/
Wyndham
Northam
Delivering the
Vision A - E
Performance
Management –
Annual report
Julie Cooke /
Tom FitzPatrick
RIPA/
Surveillance
Nick Baker/John
Lee
Coast,
Countryside and
Built Heritage A
Annual
Future of the
Happisburgh
Steps
Brian Farrow /
Angie Fitch-Tillett
Coast,
Countryside and
Built Heritage
Request by Coastal
Management Board
(Nov.12)
CCTV Working
Party
Budget
Monitoring
Period 4 (April –
July)
Duncan Ellis
Karen Sly/
Wyndham
Northam
Delivering the
Vision E
Cyclical
Happisburgh
Beach Access
Steps
Monitoring
Report
Angie FitchTillett/Brian
Farrow
Coast,
Countryside and
Built Heritage C
Undertaking to monitor
made to Cabinet on
10 September 2012 –
request by Coastal
Management Board to
consider in June 2013
Update Housing
Allocations
Scheme (tbc)
Trevor Ivory /
Nicola Turner
Update Empty
Homes Policy
(tbc)
Trevor Ivory/
Nicola Turner
Customer
Access Strategy
Tom
FitzPatrick/Estelle
Packham
23
Annual
Annual
Delivering the
Vision B
Date of
Meeting
Topic
Item on
All
Scrutiny
agendas
Scrutiny
Committee
Work
Programme
Organisation/
Officer/
Responsible
Portfolio Holder
Tom FitzPatrick/
Scrutiny Officer
24
Links with
Corporate Plan
Notes
All
At Committee
Appendix D
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
25
Annual Action Plan - Performance Indicators and Measures
Reference
Name
J 001
Percentage of Loans fund that can be reapplied
J 002
Appendix E
Target 2012/13
Targets 2013/14
c. 20%
20%
Number of businesses who access loans & grants under the
Coastal Pathfinder scheme
15
25
J 004
Number of businesses assisted to retain jobs and/or increase
employment each year
25
25
H 002
Number of long term empty homes (6 months or more) brought
back into use (as at October each year)
Reduction of 40 from base
4
Carry out trend analysis
3 (Land North of Rudham Stile Lane,
Fakenham (F01), Land at Heath Farm /
Hempstead Road, Holt (H01), Land at
Norwich Road / Nursery Drive, North
Walsham (NW01))
H 003
Number of development briefs produced on allocated sites
H 007
Number of affordable homes built
Review and report
Carry out trend analysis
C 002
Percentage of planning appeals allowed (Low is Good)
Review and report
Review and report
C 003
Percentage of MAJOR planning applications processed within
thirteen weeks
Review and report
80% (Target to be reviewed following
response to consultation on "Planning
Performance and the Planning Guarantee")
72%
72%
80%
80%
4 (Cromer, Sheringham, Walsingham
and Wells)
3 (Sheringham, Walsingham and Wells)
100%
95% (100% not realistic)
Target not set
Review and report
Target not set
Carry out trend analysis
Review and report
0
Review and report
0
4
3 (This target will reduce by 1 from the
previous year as a new testing regime has
been introduced from April 2013 and the
Council has already been informed that the
previous Blue Flag award for Mundesley is
being withdrawn. The target will relate to
maintaining the current awards at
Sheringham, Cromer and Sea Palling.)
2 (new flag at Sadlers Wood, North
Walsham)
2 (This target is being held at 2 as, although a
new application for Green Flag status is
currently being completed for Pretty Corner
woods in Sheringham, it is unlikely to be
successful in its first year.)
C 004
C 005
Percentage of MINOR planning applications processed within
eight weeks
Percentage of OTHER planning applications processed within
eight weeks
C 006
Conservation Area plans that have been completed or reviewed
C 007
Target response time to fly tipping and all other pollution
complaints (within 2 working days)
C 008
Number of pollution enforcement interventions
C 009
C 010
C 010
C 012
C 013
Number of fixed penalty notices for litter, graffiti, fly posting
and dog offences issued
Number of defaults issued to the waste and related services
contractor for cleanliness (Low is Good)
Number of defaults issued to the waste and related services
contractor for cleanliness (Low is Good)
Blue flag accreditation: Resort Beaches
Number of Green Flag accreditations for parks and countryside
Page 1
26
Reference
L 005
L 006
V 001
V 002
Name
Number of grants awarded to local communities from the Big
Society Fund
Amount of funding investment in community projects (from the
Big Society Fund) (£)
Percentage of (Medium Priority) audit recommendations
completed on time
Percentage of (High Priority) audit recommendations completed
on time
V 003
Number of actions identified in the Annual Governance
Statement action plan completed on time
V 004
Percentage of audit days delivered
V 005
V 006
Target 2012/13
Targets 2013/14
Target not set
Review and report
Target not set
Review and report
80%
80%
100%
100%
Derived from the Annual Governance
Statement in June 2012
Derived from the Annual Governance
Statement in June 2013
100%
100%
Review and report
Review and report
Review and report
Review and report
Level of overspend/ (underspend) (£) by the new service
groupings
Level of overspend/ (underspend) (%) by the new service
groupings
V 007
Working Days Lost Due to Sickness Absence (Whole Authority
days per Full Time Equivalent members of staff) (Low is Good)
Review and report
6 days per Full Time Equivalent employee
V 008
Level of overspend/ (underspend) (£) total
Review and report
Review and report
V 009
Level of overspend/ (underspend) (%) total
Review and report
Review and report
J D NEW
Number of member businesses of the Destination Management
Organisation (DMO) for the North Norfolk coast and
countryside
250
Page 2
27
Agenda Item 14 North Norfolk District Council – Health and Wellbeing Report
This report provides an update on some of the strategic and multiagency work as well as
direct services that the Council provides which impact on health and well - being.
Health Strategy Key strategic priorities
1. Localism of health delivery by all relevant stakeholders
2. Prevention of ill health and promotion of healthy lifestyles
3. Maintaining activity, independence and support for older people
Localism of health delivery by all relevant stakeholders
This strategic priority recognises within a rural area such as North Norfolk the need to
ensure that where ever possible organisations responsible for health, social care and
wellbeing services work together to offer and deliver coordinated, local services.
From 1st April 2013 NHS Norfolk as a Primary Care Trust will be abolished. It will be
replaced by North Norfolk Clinical Commissioning Group (NNCCG) which is a formal
collaboration of 20 GP Practices covering all of North Norfolk and parts of Broadland District
Council areas.
It has been agreed that NNDC and NNCCG will hold a strategic meeting every six months to
improve organisational and service understanding and identify partnership opportunities
within our geographical district area.
In addition, to provide local strategic direction and priorities for action for the whole of the
NNCCG area, a North Norfolk and Rural Broadland Strategic Partnership Group has been
formed by the NNCCG. Organisations on the group, which will meet bi-monthly, include,
Broadland and North Norfolk District Councils as well as Norfolk County Council.
Some representatives on the Partnership Group also attend the Norfolk Health and
Wellbeing Board and North Norfolk Health Improvement Forum (NNHIF). This enables a link
to be established between the Board and the NNHIF who will be responsible for operational
delivery of the partnership Group’s agreed actions.
The Norfolk Health and Wellbeing Board recently agreed eleven priorities for the County
Health and Wellbeing Strategy. The Partnership Group has agreed three areas for more
local action, based on local needs within the umbrella of the Health and Wellbeing Board’s
emergent priorities. These are:
•
•
•
Physical Activity, Healthy Eating and Weight Management
Supporting independence at home, better support for people with long term
conditions, and addressing the needs of adult and young carers.
Creation of good developmental and learning outcomes for children and young
people.
Initial areas of activity in relation to the priority areas have been identified and an action plan
containing a number of challenging outputs, outcomes and delivery timescales is being
developed.
1 28
Agenda Item 14 Local Strategic and Operational Structure Norfolk Health and Wellbeing Board NNDC Rep: Cllr. Fitch –Tillett Quarterly County wide strategic North Norfolk and rural Broadland Strategic Partnership Group NNDC, Broadland DC, NNCCG and Norfolk County Council Bi monthly ‐ strategic and operational NNDC and NNCCG NNDC – CLT ,Leader and Portfolio member NNCCG CEO and Chair Six monthly ‐ strategic North Norfolk Health Improvement Forum Quarterly multiagency operational delivery NNDC Work Supporting Identified Priorities
Prevention of ill health and promotion of healthy lifestyles
North Norfolk Activity Referral Scheme – participation in the activity referral scheme
continues to increase. The scheme was revised and re launched in August 2012, all
surgeries in North Norfolk were contacted and encouraged to refer eligible patients. Between
September 2011 and January 2012, 665 people participated in the scheme. This almost
doubled to 1,231 people between September 2012 and January 2013, Victory continues to
experience the most significant increase in participation. Two community gyms at Stalham
and Neatishead which have been established and supported by the NNDC mobile gym
service will also be joining the scheme offering residents in these areas a more local service.
North Norfolk Work Out Project – NNDC led involvement in this externally funded project
which ended on 30th September 2012. A core group of volunteers have formed a separate
community group and are continuing to run the project. An agreement has been reached
with the Council whereby the group carry out work each month on NNDC sites in exchange
for some limited office support. To improve and expand our countryside offer a successful
bid for Supporting Change funding of £10,000 will enable the Council to set up a new
conservation volunteer group, which is called Muddy Boots Volunteers and will attract
volunteers to our countryside sites. A Muddy boots club for children with an award scheme
for conservation achievements will also be established. Participating in conservation
activities enables people to improve their health and wellbeing as well as maintain and
improve our natural environment.
North Norfolk Health Trainer Service This NHS Norfolk service is based at the Council. In
addition to the benefits of working in partnership the Council receives income from the NHS
for the office space and associated support services. The service was established in
November 2011 and started fully seeing clients in April/May 2012. The Service covers the
2 29
Agenda Item 14 North Norfolk Clinical Commissioning Group which means the service encompasses North
Norfolk and parts of rural Broadland District Council area.
•
•
There are four qualified health trainers covering the NNCCG area.
283 referrals have been received. 65.01% of these have been through self-referrals
the other 34.99% are directly received from Health Professionals of other referrers.
From the 1st March 2013 Mytime Active will manage the Health Trainer contract in Norfolk
and Waveney. The service is currently commissioned by NHS Norfolk and Waveney which
will change to Norfolk County Council from 1st April 2013 as part of the national transfer of
Public Health to Local Authority.
The service has good links with the Broadland and North Norfolk Activity Referral Schemes,
Council sports and leisure centres and the mobile gym. The Service has worked extensively
with North Norfolk District Council to make a real improvement in people’s health, lifestyle
and wellbeing.
Maintaining activity, independence and support for older and vulnerable people
Warm and Well in Norfolk – Following another successful multi agency bid in 2012 Norfolk
received £283, 570 to implement a range of county wide prevention, safety net and legacy
interventions to reduce the incidence in vulnerable people of preventable illness and death in
which cold housing was a contributing factor. In North Norfolk the grant has enabled:
• The distribution of 300 warm packs.
• Free low level insulation via Age UK North Norfolk
• Establishment via Parish Councils and voluntary organisations of a portable heater
loan scheme.
• Grants towards boiler / heating repairs
• Emergency heating oil
• Loan scheme for heating oil
• Surviving Winter Fund via Age UK Norfolk.
Integrated Housing Adaptations Team - The Integrated Housing Adaptations Team
established in November 2012 brings together in one place all officers (County Council,
District Council and Home Improvement Agency) involved in the provision of Disabled
Facilities Grant. It is expected that this will improve communications between agencies and
result in the quicker delivery of adaptations and an improved customer experience. The team
will assist disabled people in moving to more suitable accommodation where this is either
necessary or proves a better option. – Lead officer Karen Hill
Big Switch and Save – A successful bid to the Department for Energy and Climate Change
secured £18,500 to establish a switch and save scheme to help North Norfolk residents
save money on their energy bills. A website (www.bigswitchandsave.co.uk) has been set up
where residents will be able to submit their details to be included in a ‘reverse auction’ to find
the cheapest energy tariff for those householders. By grouping hundreds or even thousands
of households together, it is possible to negotiate much lower energy tariffs than if an
individual was changing supplier on their own. Schemes elsewhere in the country have seen
residents save an average of £171 per year on their bills! The scheme opened on 1 March
and then after the scheme closes for online applications on 8 April, energy suppliers
compete in the auction to make the best offer to those customers who applied. This deal is
then offered back to those who signed up, who will then see how much they could save
3 30
Agenda Item 14 compared to their existing tariff, and be able to make a decision on whether to change to the
new tariff. If the householder opts to change to the new tariff, the switch of supplier will be
carried out automatically.
The more households who join, the stronger the bargaining power to drive down individual
energy bills, and so NNDC has teamed up with other Norfolk councils under the banner of
‘The Big Switch and Save’.
The funding has also enabled Energy Boxes to be purchased which contain a
comprehensive folder of thematic information and advice sheets on issues such as heating,
insulating and keeping warm in your home, meters, bills and tariffs, Green Deal and
renewable energy. The Energy Box also contains an OWL energy monitor and home
thermometer. Town and Parish Councils will be offered a box to use within their
communities. – lead officer Peter Lumb
Local Health Service Update
North Norfolk Clinical Commissioning Group has recently been granted authorisation from
the NHS Commissioning Board to commission healthcare services from 1st April 2013.
Authorisation is granted after following a rigorous assessment and assurance process to
ensure the CCG is safe and effective. This including reviewing the CCG’s policies, carrying
out detailed site visits, interviewing and assessing its leaders and assessing its work with
stakeholders and patients.
The CCG has recently held a public consultation on its Commissioning Strategy 2012 2016. The strategy identified the strategic goals and initiatives the CCG has developed to
respond to the health needs of their population. The strategy focuses on five programme
areas:
• Older people
• Mental health
• Planned care
• Unplanned care
• Children
Key initiatives have been identified to support the delivery of each programme area. The
Councils response to the consultation was published in the Member’s Bulletin. Overall it was
felt that the five programme areas were appropriate but suggested some additional issues to
be considered within the priorities.
A presentation was made by the East of England Ambulance Service to Scrutiny in
December 2012. As reported in the media there are still significant issues with the service in
particular in relation to emergency response vehicles. In every month of this financial year
the trust failed to reach its eight-minute and 19-minute targets for responding to category A
patients – those in a life-threatening condition. This failure contributed to the Care Quality
Commission – finding the trust non-compliant when it comes to the care and welfare of
patients when it made an unannounced inspection of its Cambourne headquarters, near
Cambridge, last month.
The new 24 hour NHS 111 free phone telephone service has started. This offers a service
for people who need medical help but it’s not a 999 emergency. The aim is to reduce the
number of people calling 999 or going to Accident and Emergency departments
unnecessarily. Callers are assessed, given advice and directed to the most appropriate local
4 31
Agenda Item 14 service. If the NHS 111 advisers think people need an ambulance they will arrange for one
to be sent.
District Action on Public Health
From April 2013 Public Health will again become a statutory function of unitary and upper
tier local authorities.
In two-tier areas, achieving improvements across the Public Health Outcomes Framework
Indicators will be dependent upon the delivery of district frontline statutory and discretionary
services, innovative use of its public assets and utilisation of its local partnerships. With public
sector resources shrinking, demand growing and health inequalities widening, Health and
Wellbeing Boards must acknowledge the multifaceted role of districts and integrate this into a
’whole-system’ focus on preventative public health policy.
The District Councils services and functions have always had a direct role in improving
public health outcomes across:
•
•
•
The Wider Determinants of Health
Health Improvement
Health Protection
NNDC recognises in its Health Strategy the corporate role it has to improve health outcomes
and reduce health inequalities both through direct service provision and through partnership
working. Examples where NNDC services impact on health include:
Economic Development and Business Support
Stable and fulfilling employment is a prerequisite for good health. In two-tier
areas, it is districts that facilitate the local conditions for sustainable economic
growth, job creation and rising living standards. The role of the district in economic
development, job creation, economic growth and business support can influence the wider
determinants of health.
Housing
District housing services in homelessness prevention, affordable housing, the enforcement
of minimum housing standards in the private rented sector, reduction of fuel poverty and the
funding of adaptations have a significant impact on the wider determinants of health.
Preventing homelessness, improving housing conditions and increasing the supply of
affordable homes are essential to the public health agenda.
Advice, Support and Benefits,
District Councils have a duty to administer housing and council tax benefit systems, with
local authorities providing direct financial support, information and advice to vulnerable
individuals and households. These services have a fundamental impact on the wider
determinants of poor health.
The Government are reforming the welfare system with the aim of making the benefits
system more efficient and effective, reducing complexity, duplication and making work pay.
Districts are at the forefront of delivering key elements of the Welfare Reform Act,
particularly Universal Credit from October 2013 and Council Tax Support from April 2013
5 32
Agenda Item 14 Community Safety
Crime and disorder, the fear of crime and anti-social behaviour can have a significant
impact and effect on people’s physical and social health and wellbeing. The Council
has a partnership role working with organisations such as the Police, Youth
Offending Teams and housing associations in promote a safe environment for both
the resident and tourist populations.
Substance abuse, healthy eating and physical activity
Reducing smoking and excessive alcohol consumption especially amongst lower
socio economic groups will have a significant health benefit. Enforcement of
legislation, regulation and through their licensing functions as well as health
promotion and education are key areas of Council influence.
Obesity is one of the fastest growing public health challenges. Healthy eating and
improving physical activity rates can impact on people’s physical and mental health.
These are priority areas for the Health and Wellbeing Board. The district offers a
range of services including sports and leisure centres, mobile gym service, parks,
countryside and play provision, activity referral schemes, conservation and walking
initiatives. The ability to apply for external funding and working in partnership
enhances the Councils ability to impact in these areas.
Planning
Planning functions can enable the Council to help shape the physical environment of
the community so that it can better promote healthier lifestyles. The new National
Planning Policy Framework has a section on promoting healthy communities, which
states that the planning system can play an important role in facilitating social
interaction and creating healthy, inclusive communities. This will include measures
aimed at reducing health inequalities, improving access to healthy food and reducing
obesity, encouraging physical activity, improving mental health and wellbeing, and
improving air quality to reduce the incidence of respiratory diseases. The framework
also requires local planning authorities to work with public health leads and health
organisations to develop a robust evidence base that takes into account future
changes and barriers to improving health and wellbeing. District councils should
consult health partners about planning policy, infrastructure planning and major
planning applications.
Environmental Health
District Council will continue to provide essential interventions that protect individual and
community safety from environmental hazards such as communicable disease, food
safety, health and safety at work, air and water quality, contaminated land, noise
nuisance, fly tipping and pest control pest. Districts are vital partners in emergency
planning and delivering comprehensive interagency plans to respond to major public
health incidents in disease control and environmental contamination. Health & Wellbeing
Boards need to have effective and consistent engagement with all environmental
health and emergency planning functions to improve outcomes and ensure health
protection. Districts must also work closely with Health & Wellbeing Boards,
local businesses and residents to ensure frontline services and emergency plans
continue to be effective and responsive under the new arrangements.
6 33
Agenda Item 14 Partnership working, community engagement,
Health and Wellbeing are multifaceted and impacted by factors that are the responsibility
of more than one organisation. District Councils are more able to work with the local
voluntary and community sector, Town and Parish Council, statutory organisations,
private businesses as well as individuals on all aspects of public health than a County
Council. Community engagement and involvement is key to inform and shape services,
identify priorities and to support the delivery of corporate objectives. Reduced funding
across organisations combined with the localism agenda has meant that greater
engagement, increased partnership working and greater reliance on external and
alternative funding sources, commissioning and income generation are key to enable the
delivery of the public health agenda. The Council is proactively working with statutory and
voluntary organisations to improve health and well being. The Council may not always be
the lead organisation but working together ensures that NNDC functions, services and
officer experience contribute and enhance a range of multi agency projects, initiatives
and services.
The examples shown above are just some of the areas where the Council can influence
and improve health and wellbeing. The Council has always had a role in Public Health
the transfer of responsibility back to local authorities will strengthen and enhance this.
7 34
Agenda Item 14 Scrutiny Committee
Members Update
Sports and Leisure Services – Health Related Work
March 2013
Active Norfolk Sport England bid
The Council’s Sports and Leisure Services Manager has been asked to sit on the steering
group together with Active Norfolk and a number of other key stakeholders, on a forthcoming
health related project.
Active Norfolk has submitted a solicited bid to Sport England on a ‘Health’ pot of funding that
has recently been released. The bid is for £450,000 over three years and totals a £600,000+
project. The objectives are to recruit new people to sport and physical activity in a variety of
methods and activities. It will deliver five differing projects across the county as pilots to see
which method is most successful to attract more people into sport. The five different projects
will be:
•
•
•
•
•
‘Get Into’ style programmes designed to overcome barriers to sport.
National Governing Body “health” offer products, e.g. Football Association health
related activities
Sport and Leisure centre supported activity plus
community locations
Exercise Referral appropriate sports offers
Physical activity (walks) into sport. Strong evidence locally that this works.
Mobile Gym
The mobile gym project has been externally funded for the full seven years that the project
has been running. The project has reached nearly 2,000 separate participants and those
people that need it most.
Initially funded by Sport England the project now relies on Age UK funding, of which the
Council has received over £145,000 over the past five years. This funding ceases at the end
of March 2013, and other funding that has been realised runs out in September 2013.
We are looking to set the project up so that it becomes self sustainable by:
•
•
Apply to Sport England for funding via a new “Community Sports Activation Fund”
over the next three years
Set up the project as a CiC (Community Interest Company) in order that the project
can apply externally for funding pots that are not available to local authorities.
Fit Together Walks
This project continues to deliver great results with 2,192 registered members walking on 385
walks per year . The project also delivers tea dances, tone together classes, badminton, line
dancing, games, putting and art. Whilst a majority of the walkers are aged between 60 – 69
years of age, 155 of the members are aged between 80 – 89 and 7 are over the age of 90
with one participant over 100!
35
Agenda Item 14 This project is run by Active Norfolk and they have found further funding to extend the
project until at least March 2014, with funding from the Big Society Fund, to now set up the
North Norfolk programme as a CiC.
Sport England Community Sports Activation Fund
The Sports and Leisure Services Manager is also in the process of applying to Sport
England through a recently announced fund, the ‘Community Sports Activation Fund’.
The fund will total £40 million Lottery revenue fund and forms part of Sport England’s Youth
and Community Strategy 2012-2017.
A cornerstone of Sport England’s 2012-17 Strategy is making sure funding gets down to a
local level where it is most needed and can make a real difference. The new Community
Sport Activation Fund is one of the ways Sport England will be doing this and will help
increase and sustain once a week participation in sport targeted at people aged 14 and
above.
The vast majority of the fund will be awarded through five open funding rounds, with Round
1 given at short notice and only available for those well progressed projects, the next round
will be between 7 May – 1 July 2013.
I have already liaised with Sport England, all High Schools, Active Norfolk and other
voluntary groups in order to consult on what the needs of the district are so that I can best
demonstrate the evidence when submitting the Council’s application.
36
Agenda Item No____15________
ANNUAL EQUALITY REPORT
Summary:
The Equality Act 2010 requires the Council to publish
equality data, on an annual basis, demonstrating how it
fulfils the Public Sector Equality Duty. The data is
appended and the report highlights areas of work
undertaken by / required to ensure full compliance with
this aspect of the Act.
Conclusions:
The Overview and Scrutiny Committee should note the
publication of equality data and work being progressed
to address data gaps.
Recommendations:
The report recommends that the Overview and
Scrutiny Committee note the report.
Reasons for
Recommendations:
To ensure the Overview and Scrutiny Committee is
aware of the publication of the Council’s equality data.
Cabinet Member(s)
Ward(s) affected
Cllr Tom Fitzpatrick
All
Contact Officer, telephone number and email:
Kate Sullivan, 01263 516052, kate.sullivan@north-norfolk.gov.uk
1.
Introduction
1.1
Part of the specific duties of the Equality Act 2010 requires the Council to
publish equality data, on an annual basis, which demonstrates how the
authority fulfils the Public Sector Equality Duty (PSED). The PSED requires
the Council to:
•
•
•
Eliminate discrimination, harassment, victimisation.
Promote equality of opportunity for everyone.
Encourage good relations between people of different background.
1.2
The data for 2012/13 is attached at Appendix_F_. The data for 2011/12 and
2012/13 is located at http://www.northnorfolk.org/community/9388.asp
2.
Government Guidance: specific duties
2.1
The Home Office guidance states that the authority must be able to
demonstrate:
•
How the authority has paid due regard to the aims of the Public Sector
Equality Duty (see paragraph 1.1).
37
•
That the authority consciously thought about the 3 aims in its decision
making.
•
Data relating to our employees, (as the authority has over 150
employees).
•
Information relating to people affected by our policies and services.
2.2
The guidance also states that it would be ‘helpful’ for the authority to consider
topical issues, e.g. gender pay gap, which are relevant to our activities and
show how these have been considered.
2.3
Where data sets are incomplete the Council is encouraged to publish the
information available with an explanation of how data gaps will be filled in
future.
2.4
The guidance does make some suggestions as to the type of information the
authority could publish. These are outcome-oriented in nature and are listed
below to show what is expected:
2.4.1
Service outcomes for people with different characteristics.
2.4.2
Number of people with different characteristics who access and use
services in different ways.
2.4.3
Customer satisfaction levels of service users with different characteristics.
2.4.4
Complaints about discrimination.
2.4.5
Complaints from people with different characteristics.
3.
Our Approach
3.1
For each key service are the Council has identified:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
The key activities listed in service business plans
Key tests of fairness for the service i.e. the broad key questions which
need answering in order to determine how fair or equitable the outcomes
of the service are
Those key activities which have high relevance to the Public Sector
Equality Duty
The equality data currently collected
Data gaps
Equality Impact Assessment data
Any project work which has been implemented to address inequalities
which have previously been identified
3.2
The 2011/12 data was published on the 31st of January 2012.
3.3
For 2012/13 the 2011/12 document was updated to reflect the changes in the
Council as well as updated information. This was published in draft on the
31st January 2013.
38
4.
Issues
4.1
In December 2012, the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC)
published ‘Publishing equality information: commitment, engagement and
transparency.’
This is an assessment of public bodies’ performance
regarding their meeting the specific duties with reference to the publication of
equalities data in January 2012.
4.2
The report makes a series of recommendations which the EHRC expects
public bodies to incorporate into the publication of 2013 data and the process
the Council should adopt in updating documents. These recommendations
have been incorporated in to the Council’s equality data document where
possible. In relation to the publication of data, the main outstanding issues
are to:
•
Ensure the Council addresses data gaps. The data gaps which were
identified in 2012 have not been addressed. This means the authority
is not fully compliant with the requirements of the specific duty to
publish data.
•
Identify areas where the Council has not collected, used or published
equality information, but where other authorities have done so.
•
Consider how the Council’s performance compares with the
performance of other local authorities.
•
engage with staff and service users about how useful they have found
the published equality information to be, and where any improvements
can be made put in place clear plans to address any shortcomings, as
quickly as possible.
•
Ensure the data is available in alternative format and languages.
5.
Conclusions
5.1
To conclude, the Council has made efforts to fulfill the specific duty to publish
equality data. The Council must address the outstanding issues set out
above to ensure it is fully compliant with this aspect of the duty and will seek
to do so in partnership with other local authorities and public bodies in Norfolk
through the newly re-constituted Norfolk Community Relations and Equality
Board.
6.
Implications and Risks
6.1
If the Council does not comply with the specific duties the Equality and
Human Rights Commission (EHRC) can issue a compliance notice. If the
authority failed to comply with a requirement of the notice, the EHRC could
apply to the county court in England and Wales for an order requiring the
authority to comply.
7.
Financial Implications and Risks
7.1
There are modest financial implications in the Council seeking to address
identified data gaps which need to be considered against the time and cost
39
which would be incurred should any enforcement action be taken against the
authority.
There would also be reputational risks to the Council if the authority was to
have enforcement action taken against it for failing to meet the Public Sector
Equality Duty.
8.
Sustainability
8.1
None.
9.
Equality and Diversity
9.1
This report is specifically concerned with the Council’s progress to fulfill its
obligation under the Equality Act 2010 to publish equality data.
10.
Section 17 Crime and Disorder considerations
10.1
The Council is required to consider all its functions when considering what
equality data to publish. The Section 17 duty has been considered as data
relating to Hate Crime and Domestic Violence has been published.
40