Issue - meetings

Executive:

a) Considered and approved the recommendations found in the action plan at appendix A.

b) Agreed that the recommendations outlined in the action plan to be taken forward are implemented and Overview and Scrutiny Committee provided with a progress report on implementation.

The Executive Member for Neighbourhoods presented the report and thanked members of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, the Task and Finish Group and Councillor S Nicholls for their work. It was noted that communications between councillors, residents and housing providers were complex but vital. The Task and Finish Group had undertaken detailed work and developed a programme of actions aimed at improving communication across these groups, with the intention of delivering benefits, particularly for residents and tenants.

The Executive Member for Neighbourhoods proposed the recommendations as detailed in the report. The Executive Member for Corporate Services seconded the proposal.

Executive Members welcomed the report and commended the work of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee and the Task and Finish Group, noting that it represented a constructive approach to addressing longstanding communication challenges between housing providers, the Council and residents. It was recognised that poor communication had been a significant contributor to dissatisfaction and that the recommendations sought to improve transparency, escalation processes and accountability. Members emphasised that outcomes for residents, particularly the timely resolution of issues, remained of primary importance.

A specific case highlighted the experiences of a vulnerable elderly resident living in unsuitable conditions over a prolonged period, demonstrating shortcomings across multiple agencies. Members agreed that residents should not have to rely on councillor intervention for issues to be resolved and that systems should be more proactive and responsive.

Executive Members supported exploring the development of a Housing Charter to set clear standards and expectations for providers, alongside calls for stronger powers and improved coordination between housing, social care and health services.

Executive Members also highlighted the importance of better support for vulnerable residents and commented on the recommendation for training and accessible guidance for councillors. The Shelter UK website was referenced as a good source of information for councillors and residents. 

The motion to support the recommendations, having been proposed and seconded, was put to the meeting and upon a vote being taken, was declared CARRIED.

RESOVLED – that Executive:

(A) Considered and approved the recommendations found in the action plan at appendix A.

(B) Agreed that the recommendations outlined in the action plan to be taken forward are implemented and Overview and Scrutiny Committee provided with a progress report on implementation.