ARGYLL AND BUTE COlJNCIL

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ARGYLL AND BUTE COlJNCIL Present: Councillor Gordon Mason (in the Chair) Councillor Robin Currie I Councillor McNamara Councillor Dunn Councillor McTai~gart c'ou nci Ilo I- Fi ndlay C.huncillol- FI-asei- Gillics Councillor 'Kees C'ouncilloi- lan Gillies Councillor Stewart C: ~ L I ncill o I- Hay C ~ L I iici 11 o r Kel 1 y C 01.1 n ci I I o r McKi nn on Cou nci I lo r McK inlay Councillor Petrie Councillor Walsh Also Present: Councillor Allison C o ii iici llo r Cain eron Couiicillor Donald MacMillaii C' CNI n ci 1 I c) r McC a1 1 LII n Attend i tig : Douglas Hendry, Director of Housing & Social Work Charles Reppke, Head of Democratic & Community Services Stewart McGregor, Director of Finance Malcolm MacFadyen, Head of Development & Client Services Donald Macvicar, Head of Housing Management Sandra Greer, Head of Community Care Pauline Hoggan, Foimei- l-lead of Children & Young Families JilI11es McLellan, Chief Executive (for item 24) Alwlogies: Councillor Robe] t Curl ie Councillor MacQueen Councillor Robertson Councillor Wilson The Coiriiiiillee approvcd thc Minure of their nwetiny of 19 November 1998 as a correct record

Transcript of ARGYLL AND BUTE COlJNCIL

ARGYLL AND BUTE COlJNCIL

Present: Councillor Gordon Mason (in the Chair)

Councillor Robin Currie I Councillor McNamara Councillor Dunn Councillor McTai~gart c'ou nci Ilo I- Fi ndlay C.huncillol- FI-asei- Gillics Councillor 'Kees C'ouncilloi- lan Gillies Councillor Stewart C: ~ L I ncill o I- Hay C ~ L I iici 11 o r Kel 1 y C 01.1 n ci I I o r McKi nn on Cou nci I lo r McK inlay

Councillor Petrie

Councillor Walsh

Also Present: Councillor Allison C o i i iici llo r Cain er on Couiicillor Donald MacMillaii C' CNI n ci 1 I c) r McC a1 1 LII n

Attend i tig : Douglas Hendry, Director of Housing & Social Work Charles Reppke, Head of Democratic & Community Services Stewart McGregor, Director of Finance Malcolm MacFadyen, Head of Development & Client Services Donald Macvicar, Head of Housing Management Sandra Greer, Head of Community Care Pauline Hoggan, Foimei- l-lead of Children & Young Families

JilI11es McLellan, Chief Executive (for item 24)

Alwlogies: Councillor Robe] t Curl ie Councillor MacQueen Councillor Robertson Councillor Wilson

The Coiriiiiillee approvcd thc Minure of their nwetiny of 19 November 1998 as a correct record

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2. PRESENTATION BY ACCOUNTS COMMISSION

71he Chairinan welcomed Barbara Hurst from the Accounts Commission Ms Hurst advised she \vas the Project Manager tbr, Residential & Nursing Home Care and thanked the .Council for agreeing to take part in the Commission's Study ofNursin2 & Residential Homes in five Council Areas. She made a slide presentation to appraise Members of the placings of this Council's four Residential Homes, Thomson Court, Dunoon, Tigh Rudha, Tiree, Ardfenaig, Ardrishaig, and Eader Glinn, Oban in the various categories examined ie catering and cleaning costs, staff costs, weekIy running costs, coinparative staffing structures, resident satisfaction with staff time allocated and overall satisfaction. Ms.Hurst stressed the findings were not pointers for the C o ti n c i I t 10 take i n t CI CO n si d era t ion b 11 t when 11 nd e rt ak i ng the Best Value Review

3. RESIDEN'l'iAI, & NlJKSINC. HOME CARE STUDY

The Director of Housing & Social Work subniitted a report informing Members of the recent study undertaken by the Accounts Commission of Residential & Kursiny Home Care throughout Argyll & Bute

Decision:

To note the work undertaken by the Accounts Commission, its implicatiorls for Argyll & Bute Council as a direct provider of'residential care and the action taken in regard to spccific issues highlighted by the Commission,

(Reference Report by Director of Housing & Social Work dated 27 January 1999 submitted)

4. PRESENTATION BY STRATHCLYDE FlRE BRIGADE: COMklUNITb FlRE SAFETY

The Chairman welcomed Divisional Ofher- Stuait MacDonald and Sub Oficer lain Gavin fi-urn N o r t h Command of Str-athclyde .Fke Brigade These Officers gave slide. presentations highlighting the main reasons for house fires I-esulting in fatalities being dropped lighted cigarettes, alcohol abuse, incorrect siting of smoke detwtors and batteries being removed from smoke detectors. Divisional Officer MacDonald asked that the Council agree to Housing & Social Work staff working with Community Fire Officers to alert them to any potential dangers identified when staffwere carrying out normal duties. It was understood the provision of this information was not mandatory and that cound clients may not wish to accept help from the Community Fire Officer

Dec is io 11 :

To agree that Housing Kr Social Work staff work in partnership with C'ommunily F1r-e Oflkers to try to protect the most vulnerable members of the community from fire tragedies

5. RF.\.'ETI'UE BlJDGET 1999/2000

(a) Thc Director 01' Finance I-epoitcd that tlic Sccrctary of State, on 1 X December 1 W X , had issiicd il)dicnti\ic spcnding gtiidctines for each riutliority in place of tlie fixed capping of locnl niittiorit!, budgcta T h e espciidit~irz g,111deline figure for this Cnunctl uuiiiounted to -E I 4 I .?X7.000. I t \\.as therefore for councils tlicmscl\/cs to decide exactl!, what Ievd of slic'iidiiig to choose and to justi+ the council tax conscquences.~ The Secrctan of Statc had indicated that existing capping poxvers \ \ odd be held in reserve if couiicils were considered to have set excessive budgets, I11 those circumstances the Director of Financc f d t it appropriate to offer advice to the Council on the question of setting a budgct \\;hich exceeded the expenditure guideliiie figure. Draft budgets had been nsscinblcd \\hich in total. exceeded the expenditure guideline. I f a budget \vas to bc sct :it ;i Icvcl i\ hich cxcccded that figure. it \vas tlie Director's advice that thc cscess should tic 110 grcatcr than f700.000 thc Sccrctnij, of Sta.tc would take ;I smilar view and not cxcrcisc hIs po\vers to cap the Corriicil's butlgct at ;i lo\vci- lcvcl.

Thc Director cmpfinsisd that he could nol gmraiKt.c that

Motion:

I That the Committee agrees first to contain its proposed expenditure by making savings of241 0,233.

3 ' I hat any Member who wishes to move a motion or amendment the effect of which would be to reducc that le\.*el of savings must idontify specific and specified alternative savings proposals of an equivalent amount from the same Scrvice because it is the Director of Finance's professional advice that the Council should not exceed its guideline by more than 2700, 000 and the Council will need to consider that advice

Moved by Councillor Mason, seconded by Councillor Kelly

A rnendn1en t:

We tii~ive that the proposed budgets be referred without recommendation to the P d i q &L Resources Coininittee meeting on 4 March 1999

Moved by Councillor MacTaggart. seconded by Councillor Dunn

Decision:

1. The Motion was carried by 10 votes to 6 and accordingly:-

2 The Committee agreed first to contain its proposed expenditure by making saving uf f4 10,233.

3 That any Member who niishes to inove a Motion or Amendment the effect ofwhich would be to reduce the level of savings must identify specific and specified alternative savings proposals of an equivalent amount from the same Service because it is the Director of Finance's professional advice

. 182 that the Council shouId not exceed its guideline by more than 2700,000 and thc Council will need to consider that advice

(b) The Director of Housing & Social Work submitted the Drafl Revenue Estimates, Variance Explanations and Options for Savings for consideration

Decision:

To rec.oiiimend to Policy & Resources Committee.

1. Approval of the the Draft Revenue Estimates, C C L S for this Committee’s Services

2 That the Vai-iarices be rioted

3 To approve rhe savings proposals as recommended by the Chairman ofthis Committee as detailed in the Schedule attached to this Minute

( c) The Director of Housing & Social Work submitted the charges for Services for consideration with the amendment that the c.harge for Meals on Wheels and Lunch Clubs be reduced to & I 50p in view of the Council’s acceptance of the Options fot- Savings.

Decision:

To accept the charges for Services as submitted by Director of Housing & Social Work subject to the charge for Meals on U7heels (per meal) for 1999/2000 being & 1 Sop and the charge for Lunch Clubs (per meal) being &1 50 for 1999/2000

{Reference Report by the Director of Finance, Draft Revenue Estimates. Variance Explanations, Options for Savings and Charges for Services for Housing and Social Work Services submitted)

6 . HRA CAPf‘l’AL PROGRAMME 199XIY9

The Director of Housing & Social Work submitted a report on the progress made on the HRA Capital Programme for 1998i99 In addition he confirmed the arrangements that had been made to maintain expenditure at the approved level following slippage and variation in mine contracts and outlined progress that had been made on projects under ihe principal expenditure headings of the Capital Progranimc during the first t h e e vears of the Council’s operation

Dcc i s ion :

1 To note the arrangements that have been made to vary the prograinme in idle\$ ot the anticipated areas of slippage and variation

2 To note the projected out-turn in terms ofexpenditure and the number of propenies treated, as outlined within Annex A to the report

3 . Tn note the general progress that had been made on projects under the principal expunditur-e heads during the first three years of the Council’s operation as outlined in Annex H to the report.

(Reference Report by Director ofHousing B( Social Work dated 22 January 1999, submitted)

H RA CA4PITAL PROGRAMME 1999/2000 - ALLOCATION OF RESOURCES AND PRIORTTISATION OF PROJECTS FOR INCLUSION

The Dircctor ofHcoLising & Social Work submitted a report advising that the Secretary of Stale was untilcely to announce thc Authority’s net allocation for expenditure on I C)99!!’?OOO HKA Capital Programme until the end of Febniary 1999. To enable the necessary preparatory work to be undertaken he submitted a series of recommendations which would allow the programme of expenditure to be set at &4.000m., the same level as last year.

Deck io n:

1 To agree the recommendations in Director of Housing & Social Work’s report which would enable the HKA Capital Programme to be set at &4 OOOtn for 1999/2000

2. To agree rhe proposals for the prioritisation of the projects for inclusion within the Capital Programme detailed in the Director of Housing & Social Work’s report.

(Reference. Report by Director of Housing & Social Work dated 25 Janiiary 1999, submittedj

8. COUNCIL HOIJSE KENT LEVELS 1999/2000

The Director of Housing & Social Work submitted a report setting out the current income and balance position on the Housing Revenue Account and the impact that all relevant expenditure would have for council house rental charges for 1999/2000.

Decisioii :

To rccommend to the Council that there should be no increase in the rents of Council houses for 1990/2000 and the average rent remain at &36 45 per week.

(Reference: Report hy Director of Housing & Social Work dated 20 January 1999 sub [nit t ed)

9. SOClAL WORK CAPITAL PROGRAMME 1998/99

The Director of Housiny & Social Work submitted a report advising of thc progress that had been made on the Social Work Capital Programme for 1998/99 It confirmed the arrangements that had been made to maintain expenditure at the approved level following slippage on some projects

Decision:

1 . To note the arrangements that had been made to vary the Programme in view of the anticipated areas of slippage and variation.

2. To note the projected out-turn in terms of expenditure

(Reference Report by Director of Housing & Social Work dated 25 January 1999, submitted)

10. ROUGH SLEEPERS INlTIATlVE

In 1997 the Government introduced the Rough Sleepers Initiative inviting Local Authoriries working in partnership with other agencies to assess the extent of rough deeping in their area and to subinit proposals for addressing any needs identified. The second and third phases of the Initiative were ayreed for 1998 and 1999 and the Scottish Housing Minister has recently announced that the Scheme wouM be allowed to run at least until the yea1 2002 in the hope of eradicating the problem of rough sleeping throughout the country The Director of Housing & Social Work’s Report advised of the successfid outcome of the Council’s bid for hnding under the third phase of the Initiative and made recommendations for h tu re developments

Decis io 11:

I . To note the successfirl outcome of the Council’s recent bid fol- funding for l he Rough Sleepers Initiative.

2. To approve the recommended arrangements for the preparation o f a project or projects to prevent rough-sleeping in future as detailed in the Director of Housing &: Social Work’s report.

(Reference- Report by Director of Housing & Social Work dated 1 S January 1999 submitted).

11. SINGLE WORK FOCIJSED GATEWAY

The Government intend to move to a more streamlined and eficient system in which there is a single point of access to welfare and in which everyone who has the potential to work is provided with help to find it This approach “The Single Gateuaq“ \vi11

bring together the Employment Service. Benefits Agency and other welfare providers -at a single point of contact A series of pilots will test how to make the single gateway

work and from June 1999 in four areas; people of working age claiming benefits will be ablc to access information on work, benefits, tax credits, training and other ~ovcrnment services in one place The Bute & Cowal Area of Argyll &L Bute Council W C N I I ~ form part of t.lie pilot and the Council have been invited to participate in the pruject. a condition ofreceiving benefit that when asked to do so people take part in an iiiteIview to talk about their prospects of finding work. This requirement will initially be iinplernerrted in the pilot areas and will be introduced in ways that take account of individual circumstances. The pilots are for a three year period.

Frwn April 2000 the government aim to implement the legislation to make it

Decisiort:

To accept the invitation to participate formally in the Single Work Focused Gateway Pilot Project

(Reference Tieport by Director ofHciusing & Social Work dated 19 January 1999, submitted)

12. JOINT WORKING BETWEEN HOUSING AND SOCIAL WORK AT AREA LEVEL

The Director ofHousing & Social Work submitted a report advising of the progress that had been made in maximising joint working arrangements and integrating services between Wousiny & Social Work at operational level over the first year of the new d e p tirient

Decision :

1 . To note rhe present position in regard to joint working between Housing & Social Work at area level.

2 To approve the proposals for increased joint working between Housing & Social Worh iil area level as detailed in the Director cif Housing & Social Work’s report dated 19 January 1999

(Reference. Report by Director of Housing & Social Work dated 19 January 1999, submitted).

13. EILIPT’I.’ HOMES INITIATIVE

The Counc.il were awarded &30,000 under the Government’s Empty Homes Initiative for expenditure during 1998/99 While this work is still ongoing the Government has m c e again invited all councils to submit bids for projects to be funded under the Erripty Homes Initiative i n the financial years I999/2000 to 2001/2002. The Director of Housing &r. Social Work subniitted a report outlining a bid, comprising of several constituent projects which had been prepared to comply with new funding criteria announced by the Scottish Ofice for consideration.

Decision:

1 . To sirpport in principle the bids outlined within Aiinexes A & B to the Director of Housing & Social Work’s report.

2. To remit the 1-esponse to any variation which rriay arise in the proposed programme to the DirectoI- of Housing & Social Woi-k in consultation with the Chairman and Vice-Chairman of the Housing & Social Work Committee together with the local Member in whose area the project lies.

(Reference. Report by Director of Housing & Social Work dated 8 February 1999 si1 b ini t tcd)

14. JNTERlhl CIHDELINES FOR THE SAFE HANDLTNG OF MEDICINES

The Director of€-Iousing & Social Work submitted a report relating to the development of interim guidelines for the safe handling of medicines for Argyll & Bute Council in respect of adult residential and day care and at a later date community and sheltered housing

Decisio 11 :

1. To approve the use of the draft guidelines in adult and elderly local authority establishments attached to the Director of Housing & Social Work’s report dated 37 January 1939

2 To agree that a fiu-ther report be submitted to the Committee in August 1999 on the implementation of these guidelines

(Reference Report by Director of Housing & Social Work dated 27 January 1999, Interim Guidelines for the safe handlins of medicines- submitted)

1 S. POLICY & PROCEDURE FOR THE PROTECTTON OF VIJ1,NERABLE RUI I I .TS IROM ABIJSE

At the Committee’s meeting on 2 I May 1998 a Orafi Policy & Procedure Document on the Protec.tion of Vulnerable Adults from Abuse was approved and a c.onsultation period with a hrther report on the results of the exercise was requested. The Director of Housing &: Social Work submitted a report informing Members of the outcome of thc Consultation and requesting approval for the implementation of the final document.

1 To approve the filial Policy & Procedutes Document for h e implementation to take efect throughout Argyll Br Bute

2. To approve a joint training strategy with Argyll & Clyde Health Board, and Strathclyde Police prior to the implementation of the guidelines

IS?

3 To approve the preparation of an information leaflet aimed at the general public \vhich dcfincs adult abuse

(Keftrence. lieport by Dircctor ofHousing & Social Work dated 27 January ,1999 a.nd P d I q & Pi-ocedures the Protection of Vulnerablc Adults from Abuse. submitted).

16. R)lEh”l’AL HEALTII OFFICER WORK

The Director ofHousing & Social Work submitted a report advising that the Mental Health (Scotland) Act 1984 requires a local authority to appoint Mental Health Otticei-s t o carri’ out certain functions. The report described the functions and some statistics were Fiven to indicate the amount of statutory work carried out by Mental Health Otticei-s in Argyll & Rut.e, deta.iIs of t.raining which must be undertaken before a social woi.lier. can be appointed a s a Mental Health Oi‘ficer were referred to also.

Ilecision:

I To note the contents of the Director of Housing & Social Work’s report

2 To agree tha t the Director ofHousing & Social Work should report to Committee annually on the statutory work carried out for Mental Health Officers in the Council’s area

(Reference. Repnit by Director of Housing Br Social Work dated 2 1 January 1999, submitted)

17. CRI\fINAL JIJSTICE: STRATEGIC PL4Y 1999/2000 - 2001/2002

The Director of Housing & Social Work submitted a proposed agenda for Criminal Justice Senices until 2002 and advised the plan was subject to annuai updating

Deck ion :

1 To approve the Strategic Plan 1999i2OOO -3001/2002 Criminal Justice Sen9ices altached t o Director of Housing & Social Work’s Report for impleme~itatiun.

3. ‘1’0 agree that the Director ofHousing & Social Work should report to Committee annually on the progress and implementation of this Strategy.

(Refei-ence Report by Director of Housing gi Social Work and Strategic Plan 1999i2C)I)O - 300 1 EO02 - Criminal Justice Services submitted).

18. R4TION 4LISATION OF CATERIKG A N D CLEANING SERVICES

.. - I hr DiI~ector~ 01’ Housing Kr. Social Work submitted a proposal to rationalise the r-evenue costs f w c~ateriiig and cleaning sen:kes within the Local Authority Residential

Day Care Units of Argyll & Bute.

Decisioii :

I To agree that the Director of Housing & Social Wor-k should carry out a full review of the systems arid service between Commercial Services and Housing & Sociat W o r k in regard t o cleaning and catering within Social Work facilities~

2 To agree there would be direct liaison between officers of Commercial Services, Housing & Social Work Department and the Unit Managers to review the quality and efficiency of the current service and to agree any proposed changes thereto

(Refei-cnce Rcport by Director of Housing & Social Work dated 18 September 1988 si] bmit t ed

19. UHILDKENS’ DEVELOPMENT FUKD

The Director of Housing & Social Work submitted report to the Committee on the establishinent of the Childrens’ Development Fund by the Scottish Ofice, the required targets and outcomes attached to the funding and to seek approval for the deployment ofthe fund within Argyll & Bute

I k c i s io r i :

To approve the Argyll & Bute Plan for the C,hildrens’ Development F L I I I ~ aiid to authorise the Director ofI4ousing & Social Work to submit the required report on this basis to the Scottish Oilice by 3 1 March 1999

(Ret‘ereme: Report by Director of Housiny & Social Work, submitted)

20. RESlDENTlAL CHILD CARE IN ARGILXL & BUTE - PROGRESS REPORT

The Director of Housing & Social Woi-li subinittcd a report providing informalion on progress isii the development of residcntial child c.ar-e within Argyll Rr Bute

Decisiun:

1 To note the information provided by the Director of Housing & Social Work in the report dated 10 February 1999

2 To approve the further activities proposed within the Director of Housing & Social Work’s Report

(Refei-ence Report by Dii-ector o f Hniisiny & Social Work dated 10 February 1999, submitted)

The Coininittee resolved i n t e r m of Section 50.4(4) of the Local Government (Scotland) A c t 1973, to exclude the public for the following item of business on the grounds that it was likely to involve the disclosure of exempt information as defined in

189

Paragraphs 6 & 9, Part 1 of Schedule 7A to the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973.

2 I . REO I1 k S ' l ' FOR INCREASED GRANT ASSISTANCE: SUCCOTEI

'I'ha Dircclilr of Housing and Social Wut-k submitted a rcport advising that improvement grant assistance applications had been reccivcd in respect of five propellies i n Succoth. The applicants had originally enquired about grant assistance in early 1996 and had requested that the grant be assessed on the basis of the policy pertaining in 1996 on the basis that the advice they had received at that time was inadequate.

Decision:

To agree that iinpt-oveinent gr-ant assistance be appi-oved in accordancc with the Council's policy peitaining in January 1996.

(Reference - Report by Director of Housing and Social Work dated 25 January 1999)

22. REQUEST FOR INCREASED GRANT ASSISTANCE, ROTHESAY

The Djrec.tor of Housing and Social Work reported that a tenemental property i n Rothesay in which four were owner/oc.ctipied and four were owned by a local contrac,t.or had attracted application for improvement grant. The owner/occupiers had indicated that they were prepared to proceed on the basis of the grants being otfered but the contract developer had requested that consideration be given to increasing the level of assistance by &10,000 per flat in respect of the four flats in their ownership.

D ec i s i o 11 :

1 7'0 advise the applicant that the Cnuncil would consider re-assessing the levcl of grant assistance on completion of the works having regard to the final costs and the value ofthe refurbished flats and provided that the Director of Housing and Social Work, in consultation with the Chairman of the Housing and Social Work Committee is satisfied on the need for additional funding to ensure the financial viability of the sc heine

2. Tu agree that if any increase in grant assistance is shown to be justified it be restricted to a maximum of 79'0 of the development costs (purchase price plus building) which is the allowance included in the calculation of the assessment of grant for, coinrnercial IandIords.

(Reference - Report by Director of Housing and social Work, submitted)

I 190 23. 1,OANS IJNDER THE HOUSING (SCOTLAND) ACT 1987: OBAN

The Director of Corporate and Legal Services submitted a report requesting that considcration bc given to an application received from the owner of a teneinentd property in Oban for a housing loan and requested Members 10 decide whether to depart from the Council’s adopted policy in determining housing loans in the particular circumstanc.es of the case and permit the Council’s security to run after the existing sewrity in favour of the principal lender and to the letting of the security subjects or to adhere to the Council’s adopted policy and rehse the application.

Decision:

To agrcc on this occasion only to depart from the Council’s policy on granting housing loans under the 1 Iousiny (Scottanti) Act 19137 t o pennit the Director of Corporate and Legal Services to offer a loan of&4,650 to the applicant to cover the baIance of the cost of improvement works to a tenemental property in Oban not covered by grant assistance subject to the Council’s usual conditions but permitting the Council’s security to be postponed and ranked second to the existing Security in favour of a Building Society, and permitting the applicant to let the top floor flat ~n a short assured tenaricy basis provided that the rent or such propor,lion thereof‘ as the Director of Corporate and Legal Services inay colisider appropriate is paid directly to the Council

(Keferencc - Report by Director of Corporate and Legal Services dated 28 January 1999)

24. ALLOCATION OF PAINTERWORK

The Chief Executive submitted a report advising of the previous arrangeinents for lettitig painterwui-k contracts to highlight to the Committee and the Commercial Operations Board for their respective. interests the issues facing both the clients and the D.L.O. and to seek their views for repoiting to the Policy and Resources Committee.

Decision:

To agree to recoininend to the Policq and Resources Coininittee that the) adopt the basis for allocation of painterwork as detailed in 4 2 (i) and 4 2 (ii) of the Chief Executive’s report date,d 5 FebIuary 1999

(Reference -report by Chief Executive dated 5 February 1 990, submitted)

Increase GIncome - Cowal Resource Centre

Increase to Income - Ellis Lodge

Saving in building cleaning costs achieved through the re-specification of works at specified locations.

Additional income as a result of the proposed implementation of a charge for Occupational Therapy assessments required by other professionak such as architects - as proposed within charging committee report.

ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL

REVENUE BUDGET PREPARATION 1999/2000

SAVINGS PROPOSALS RECOMMENDED BY CHAIRMAN

DEPARTMENT: HOUSING & SOCIAL WORK

I I I

14,000 I 19,996 I NONE

NONE

NONE

NONE

NONE

.

NONE

NONE

15 February 1999

6

7

I_

8

fixtures and fittings budget within the Social Work service 10% reduction to 4,233 furniture budget within the Social Work service Reduction in costs of 30,000 Day Services within Elderly budget 10% reduction to 19,079 equipment budget within the Social Work service

ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL

REVENUE BUDGET PREPARATION 19.99/2000

SAVINGS PROPOSALS RECOMMENDED BY CHAIRMAN

DEPARTMENT: HOUSING & SOCIAL WORK

36589

40,822

..

70,822

89,901

NONE NONE I NONE

i NONE NONE NONE

NONE NONE Clients within units, particularly day services, wit1 not be &le to undertake the range of activities currently offerect to them, thus reducing client choice. In respect of Occupational Therapy equipment, clients are, at present, placed on a waiting list and this cut will simply mean that clients will have to wait even longer for necessary equipment. Some clients may be put at risk due to not being able to afford to purchase necessary items themselves.

NONE

NONE

This is in contravention to the Corporate Strategy’s Strategic Priorities for caring for the vulnerable and disadvantaged.

15 February 1999

9

- 10

11

Short Term Homeless Provision - Reduction in Transfer Payments

+ Reduction of Training Budget to current year levels.

Removal of Statutory

ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL

REVENUE BUDGET PREPARATION 1999/2000

SAVINGS PROPOSALS RECOMMENDED BY CHAIRMAN

DEPARTMENT HOUSING & SOCIAL WORK

55,381

7,650

169,762

177,412

meeting the CouncZ~ demand led requirement to accommodate statutory homeless peopIe in temporary accommodation. It muld also mean less transfer and waiting list applicants being housed in focal communities as more offers of all types of houses are made under the Homelessness legislation.

A provision was made within the training budget to take account of replacement salary costs, incurred as a result of employees undertaking medium to long term training and aIIernative cover having to be arranged. This reduction will result in replacement costs having to be met from existing budgets. The reduction should not affect the specific grant monies received from the Scottish Office.

There will be no budget available

NONE

NONE

NONE

NONE

cm w

Inconsistent with Corporate Strategy priority re supporting our employees

No specific implications, 15 February 1999

Emergencies Budget (Children and Families)

Reduction in Social Welfare Grants budget

Removal of Anti Poverty Strategy Budget

36,281

16,260

ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL

REVENUE BUDGET PREFARATION 1999/2000

SAVINGS PROPOSALS RECOMMENDED BY CHAIRMAN

DEPARTMENT: HOUSING & SOCIAL WORK

213,693

~

229,953

to pay for unplanned emergencies which the Department has a statutory duty to deal with. These emergencies may lead to overspends in other areas requiring Committee approval. This budget has been fully utilised during 1998/99.

This cut will result in a reduction in the monies available for both Area Committees and Headquarters to distribute. Grant applications will require to be further prioritised in order to ensure the ongoing viability of essential voluntary groups/services.

There will be no match funding available for Rural Challenge projects, for examplr, Credit Unions. There is an outstanding commitment of approx. U k to CLASP (Cowal) which will require to be met from another budget.

NONE

May be "Knock on" uverall effects

NONE

NONE

however, budgetary implications may have a "knock-on" effect on service delivery.

* cp Ip

Contrary to Corporate strategy Priorities re: a) reducing social

exclusion; and b) building and

sustaining strong communi ties.

This department will be unable to participate in Rural Challenge Projects. Contrary to Corporate Strategy Priorities re

a) Reduction of 15 Febrriary 1999

ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL

REVENUE BUDGET PREPARATION 1999/2000

SAVINGS PROPOSALS RECOMMENDED BY CHAIRMAN

DEPARTMENT: HOUSING & SOCIAL WORK

Family Placement budget within Mid Argyll, Kintyre and Islay area cut by 50%.

?O% reduction to wertime budget Nithin the Social Nork service

2,550

41,978

232,503

274,481

Ihis service funds carers for various individuals with identified needs for contact with Families in the local area. Loss of opportunity to develop this service in the face of increased demand.

The overtime budget within iocial Work is utilised mainly by mits and for payments to staff :alled out through the standby ;ervice. rhis cut will involve

NONE

NONE

NONE

NONE

poverty and social exclusion

b) Promoting community development

c) Maximising opportunities for individuals

Conkrary to Corporate Strategy -, failure to support efforts to sustain strong communities and failure to maximise - opportunities for -0 individuals. Not r/l meeting the needsbf, people who are vulnerable and disadvantaged.

NONE

I5 February 1999

16

17

Deletion of Travelling Persons Liaison Officer post and redundancy of current post-holder (net saving)

Reduction to Independent Living Fund budget as a result of decrease in clients receiving care

14,111

9,69(

ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL

REVENUE BUDGET PREPARATION 199912000

SAVINGS PROPOSALS RECOMMENDED BY CHAIRMAN

DEPARTMENT HOUSING 8c SOCIAL WORK

288,592

298,282

prioritisation of out of hours emergencies and will result in overspends in relation to covering staff absences.

Direct cut in Service provided to travelling people. No reallocation of duties proposed. Services currently used by other Councils.

Inability to fund any further clients care packages by this method. Clients are entitled to choose, within certain limitations, the

May be indirect consequences for Development and Environment Services and Transportation and Property.

NONE

1 Redundancy

NONE

Inconsistent with Corporate Strategy Priorities re

a) Promoting Community Development. W

b) Protectand a ehancingthe Q,

quality of the natural environment.

c) Equalityof opportunity and access to services.

d) reducing poverty and social exclusion.

Contrary to Corporate Strategy - failure to support efforts to sustain strong communities and failure

15 February 1999

-

through this route

10% reduction to mileage payments budget within the Social Work service

2.5% cut to Home Care budgets (this saving does not account for any redundancy costs)

36,639

46,3 12

ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL

REVENUE BUDGET PREPARATION 1999/2000

SAVINGS PROPOSALS RECOMMENDED BY CHAIRMAN

DEPARTMENT HOUSING d? SOCIAL WORK

334,921

381,233

care package that best suits their needs. This will result in a care package from the Independent Living Fund no Ionget being available, unless a current recipient dies.

Inability to fully meet the needs of clients due to restrictions being placed on travel. It will be necessary to prioritise duties in order to minimise, as far as possible, the risk to clients.

This will result in the number of hours per week being reduced by, for example, 37 hours within the Cowal area. This reduction in service will result in blocked beds or admission to elderly residential care thus inflicting additional costs on the elderly residential

NONE

NONE

NONE

This will result in the number of home help hours per week reducing by 205, which corresponds tci 10,720 hours per annum. Home Helps are currently employed

to maximise opportunities for individuals. Not meeting the needs of . people who are vulnerable and disadvantaged. Inconsistent with Joint Community Care Plan.

NONE

I )-r CD -4

If accepted, this will directly contravene the community care plan and corporate strategy as there will be a failure to support efforts to sustain strong communities and failure to maximise

15 February 1999

20 Reduction in central administration costs in relation to purchase of IT ’ equipment and staff : advertising costs

29,000

ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL

REVENUE BUDGET PREPARATION 1999/2000

SAVINGS PROPOSALS RECOMMENDED BY CHAIRMAN

DEPARTMENT: HOUSING & SOCIAL WORK

budget which is, at present, fully committed and cannot withstand any additional burdens. Tasks which are currently carried out by Home Caters will be re- assessed. Certain services which are currently provided for users of the service will no longer be available. Others will only be provided on a reduced basis. All possible steps wilf be taken to minimise the degree of risk to vulnerable elderly people.

.

410,233 Staff advertising costs will require to be met from savings within employee costs, accrued as a result of vacancies. Overspends may occur as savings accrued through vacancies are currently fully utitised to provide

NONE

I

on variable hour contracts, therefore, it has been assumed that this cut will result in a reduction to the number of hours worked per employee and not redundancy, however, this cannot be guaranteed.

NONE

opportunities for individuals, therefore, not meeting the needs of people who are vulnerable and disadvantaged. Contrary to Joint Community Care Plan and Department Service Plans.

C’L op 86

NONE

15 February 1999

21 ~~ a further 2.5% cut ~

to Home Care budgets (this saving does not account for any redundancy costs)

ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL

REVENUE BUDGET PREPARATION 1999/2000

SAVINGS PROPOSALS NOT RECOMMENDED BY CHAIRMAN

DEPARTMENT HOUSING & SOCIAL WORK

number of hours per week being reduced by, for example, 37 hours within the Cowal area. This reduction in service will result in blocked beds or admission to elderly residential care thus inflicting additional costs on the elderly residential budget which is, at present, fully committed and cannot withstand any additional. burdens. Tasks which are currentIy carried out by Home Carers will be re- assessed. Certain services which are currently provided for users of the service will no longer be available. Others will

number of home help hours per week reducing by 205, which corresponds to 10,720 hours per annum. Home Helps are currently employed on variable hour contracts, therefore, it has been assumed that this cut will result in a reduction to the number of hours worked per employee and not redundancy, however, this cannot be guaranteed.

If accepted, this will directly contravene the community care plan and corporate strategy as there will be a failure to support efforts to sustain strong communities and failure to maximise opportunities for individuals, therefore, not meeting the needs of people who are vulnerable and disadvantaged. Contrary to Joint Community Care Plan and Department Service Plans.

1

I5 February I999

weekly payment (€1) to clients attending Resource Centres

23 Further 5% cut to Home Care budgets (this saving does not account for any redundancy costs)

5,568

92,624

ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL

REVENUE BUDGET PREPARATION 1999/2000

SAVINGS PROPOSALS NOT RECOMMENDED BY CHAIRMAN

DEPARTMENT HOUSING & SOCIAL WORK

462,113

554,737

only be provided on a reduced basis. All possible steps will be taken to minimise the degree of risk to vulnerable elderly people.

cause blocked beds or admission to elderly residential care thus inflicting additional costs on the elderly residential budget which is, at present, fully committed and cannot withstand any additional burdens. In addition, the vulnerable elderly will be placed at severe risk and

corresponds to 42,715 hours per annum. Home Helps are currently employed on variable hour contracts, therefore, it has been assumed that [his cut will result in a reduction to the number of hours

i

NONE

N 8

' 0

If accepted, this will directly contravene the community care plan and corporate strategy as there will be a failure to support efforts to sustain strong communities and failure to maximise opportunities for individuals, therefore, not meeting the needs of people who are vulnerable and disadvantaged. Contrary to Joint Community Care Plan and Department Service Plans.

15 Febrirary 1999

24 Cease funding for Intensive Youth Project run by Quarries (net saving). Gross reduction in funding equates to €200,000

I

ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL

REVENUE BUDGET PREPARATION 1999/2000

SAVINGS PROPOSALS NOT RECOMMENDED BY CHAIRMAN

DEPARTMENT: HOUSING & SOCIAL WORK

89,718 644,455

the department would be unable to guarantee the safety of the elderly within the community. Tasks which are currently carried out by Home Carers will be re- assessed. Certain services which are currentIy provided for users of the service will no longer be available. Others will only be provided on a reduced basis.

There will be no provision of a preventive service to stop young people going into expensive residential care. 8 young people currently attend this project and 4 will probably require full time residential care at an approximate net cost of E30k each. This will be

Education department contribute teaching staff to this project which will not continue without our support. Education department may require to contribute approx. E20k per child

worked per employee and not redundancy, however, this cannot be guaranteed.

I redundancy - currently on secondment to Quarriers

Contrary to Corporate Strategy Priorities re

a) Meeting needs of Children and Young People

exclusion b) Reducing social

15 February 1999

13,056

20,400

ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL

REVENUE BUDGET PREPARATION 1999/2000

SAVINGS PROPOSALS NOT RECOMMENDED BY CHAIRMAN

DEPARTMENT HOUSING & SOCIAL WORK

657.51 1

677,911

unbudgeted, but inescapable expenditure which will result in overspends on other budget headings.

towards t h e G o s x any joint placements.

This budget supports the f NONE NONE provision of "Emergency Services" to individuals with Mental Health problems who are referred to, or otherwise come to the attention of Social Work, and for whom the service has a statutory responsibility. h 1999/2000, if cases of this type arise they will require to be dealt with as unbudgeted but inescapable expenditure.

The Council's Addiction NON I I budget, in 1998/1999 was totally committed to supporting local Councils on Alcohol. No other

NONE

Not directly quantifiable/ predictable, but certainly contrary to Corporate Strategy priorities re caring for the vulnerable and disadvantaged.

Eu 0 w

Contrary to Corporate Strategy Priorities re

a) Promoting Healthy Lifestyles,

15 February 7 999

27 tncrease in charges for Meals on Wheels Service - full recovery of costs

ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL

REVENUE BUDGET PREPARATION 1999/2000

SAVINGS PROPOSALS NOT RECOMMENDED BY CHAIRMAN

DEPARTMENT: HOUSING & SOCIAL WORK

57,735 735.646

work was carried out in the field of addictions. This almost total removal of the Addiction’s budget heading means an inability to fund Councils’ on Alcohol, therefore, increasing demand for direct client care within this service category will ensue. Inability to work jointly with Health Trust/Health Board on projects dealing with addictions to alcohol/other substances will materially effect service delivery.

It is anticipated that there will be a decrease in the demand for this service as cheaper alternatives are available. Other individuals who currently use the service may simolv decide not to

Due to the anticipated decrease in demand, the number of meals purchased from Commercial Services will be

No direct implication for Social Work, but may be consequences for Transportation and Property Services, which will require to be dealt with by that service.

b) Meeting the needs of families and children

c) Reducing social exclusion

Inconsistent with Departmental Service Plan. inconsislent with Joint Community Care Plan

This is in contravention to the Corporate Strategy’s Strategic Priorities for caring for the vulnerable and disadvantaged (meeting the needs of a growing elderly population / reducing quality and social exclusion)

15 February 1999

28 Increase in charges for Lunch Clubs Service - full recovery of costs

20,907

ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL

REVENUE BUDGET PREPARATION 1999/2000

SAVINGS PROPOSALS NOT RECOMMENDED BY CHAIRMAN

DEPARTMENT HOUSING & SOCIAL WORK

756,553

make alternative arrangements and go without food.

.

It is anticipated that there will be a decrease in the demand for this service as cheaper alternatives are available. Attending a Lunch Club is the only social outing available to some elderly people and, at present, provides a good value for money meal. It is inevitable that some elderly clients will not be able to afford the increase in cost and there is a risk that they may, in fact, not seek an alternative and go without food.

reduced .

Due to the anticipated decrease in demand, the number of meals purchased from community service will be reduced.

No direct implication.

maximising opportunities for individuals (promoting healthy lifestyles) and sustaining strong communities (maintaining local services/community safety)

This is in contravention to the Corporate Strategy’s Strategic Priorities for caring for the vuinerable and disadvantaged (meeting the needs of a growing elderly popuiation/reducing quality and social exclusion) maximising opportunities for individuals (promoting healthy lifestyles) and sustaining strong rrimmuni t ics (maintaining local serviceslcornmunity safety)

3 3 a

15 February 1999

Closure of 2 Independent Units within Children's Homes a) Tigh Beag

annexed to Dunclutha, Dunoon

b) No33Annexed to An Cala, LochgiIphead

Cessation of funding for Enable homes in Oban and lhnoon resulting in alternative arrangements being made for the clients [net saving). Gross reduction in

ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL

REVENUE BUDGET PREPARATION 1999/2000

SAVINGS PROPOSALS NOT RECOMMENDED BY CHAIRMAN

DEPARTMENT: HOUSING & SOCIAL WORK

64,771

80,280

821,324

901,604

units provide supported accommodation for children who are between the ages of 16 and 18, who have been in Local Authority Care prior to reaching the age of 16. The Council is obliged to provide services to these vulnerable young peopie and alternative means of complying with this obligation will have to be found. This is certain to create additional pressure on other budgets.

The client group serviced by these projects are severely handicapped, therefore, particularly Vulnerable and are, at present, settled into a home life within these units. The disruption caused by uprooting

None direct - indirect consequences for Enable employees

NONE

Contrary to Corporate Strategy Priorities re

a) Meeting the needs of

b) reducing social exclusion young people

Inconsistent with Children's Services Plan

Will directly contravene Corporate Strategy strategic priorities in terms of caring for the vulnerable and disadvantaged, in terms of meeting h e needs of people with disabilities and learning difficulties. Inconsistent with loint Communitv Care

15 February 1999

I funding of E360,OOO approximately.

I

cut to Home Care budgets (this saving does not account for

67,616

ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL

REVENUE BUDGET PREPARATION 1999/2000

SAVINGS PROPOSALS NOT RECOMMENDED BY CHAIRMAN

DEPARTMENT HOUSING & SOCIAL WORK

969,220

them, probably out wit6 Argyll and Bute which is certain to occur when the Council’s funding is terminated, will have a detrimental effect on their well-being. Additional travel costs would be incurred by Care Managers. This cut will have a detrimental effect on any future joint projects with Enable Homes or a similar group. The Department’s, and the Council’s credibility as a partner in joint working arrangements will be irreparably damaged.

This further cut, in addition to that identified at paragraphs 19,21 and 23 above, will result in the number of hours per

NONE Home Helps are currently employed on variable hour contracts, however, it c is im robable that this

Plan and Department Service Plans. Damage to Councils credibility will restrict/prevent future involvement in joint working arrangements.

If accepted, this will directly contravene the community care plan and corporate strategy as there will be a failure to support efforts to

I5 February 1999

ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL

REVENUE BUDGET PREPARATION 1999/2000

SAVINGS PROPOSALS NOT RECOMMENDED BY CHAIRMAN

DEPARTMENT: HOUSiNG & SOCIAL WORK

I costs) week being reduced by a further 300, which corresponds to a further 15,685 per a m m , totalling a proposed cut of 58,400 hours per annum.

The same consequences as outlined at number 26 above will be significantly worsened by thii course of action.

In addition, it is anticipated that onIy essential tasks associated with daily living will be carried out, that is, the domestic chores will no longer be carried out and Home helps will only be able to prepare meals €or clients. It is possible that some clients may not, in fact, receive a service at all

degree of cut in service will not affect the number of Home Helps currently employed.

mstain strong communities ind. failure to maximise 3pportunities for lndiv iduals, therefore, not meeting the needs of people who are vulnerable and disadvantaged.

Contrary to Joint Zomrnunity Care Plan and Department Service Plans.

15 February 1999

32 Closure of Sttuan Lodge elderty residential unit resulting in the redundancy of 17 members of staff and the placement of 17 elderly clients into private residential care (net saving). It is proposed that the day service currently provided a t Cowal Resource

178,750

ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL

REVENUE BUDGET PREPARATION 1999/2000

SAVINGS PROPOSALS NOT RECOMMENDED BY CHAIRMAN

DEPARTMENT: HOUSING & SOCIAL WORK

1,147,970

placed at severe risk as, in some cases, a Home Help is the oniy contact a client has with the “outside world.” A Home Help performs the essential task of monitoring the well-being of clients and reports any deterioration through the appropriate channels.

Catering and Cleaning staff employed by Commercial Services would either have to be re- deployed or be made redundant.

19 redundancies estimated.

PJ

‘ g o This is in contravention to the Corporate Strategy’s Strategic Priorities for caring for the vulnerable and disadvantaged (meeting the needs of a growing elderly population/reducing quality and social exclusion) maximising opportunities tor individuals (promoting healthy lifestyles) and sustaining strong communities (maintaining local services/community safety).

15 February 1999

Centre would relocate to Struan Lodge as would Headquarters staff resulting in Cowal Resource Centre becoming obsolete and all day services provided from Struan Lodge.

ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL

REVENUE BUDGET PREPARATION 1999/2000

SAVINGS PROPOSALS NOT RECOMMENDED BY CHAIRMAN

DEPARTMENT: HOUSING & SOCIAL WORK

Contrary to Joint Community Care Plan and Department Service Plans.

I

cut to Home Care budgets (this saving does not account for any redundancy costs)

rhis further cut, in I NONE addition to that identified a t paragraphs 19,21,23 and 31 above, will result lz~ the number of hours per week being reduced py a further 275, which :orresponds to a further 14,380 per annum, :otalling a cut of rpproximately 72,780 iours per annum.

Home Helps are currently employed on variable hour contracts, however, it is improbable that this degree of cut in service will not affect the number of Home Helps currently employed.

h) Q rp

If accepted, this will directly contravene the community care plan and corporate strategy as there will be a failure to support efforts to sustain strong communities and failure to maximise opportunities for ind ivid ua Is, therefore, not meeting the needs of people who are vulnerable and disadvantaged.

15 February 1999

Closure of Ardfenaig elderly residential unit resulting in the redundancy of 11 members of staff and the placement of 23 elderly clients into private residential care (net saving).

141,83 1

ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL

REVENUE BUDGET PREPARATION 1999/2000

SAVINGS PROPOSALS NOT RECOMMENDED BY CHAIRMAN

DEPARTMENT HOUSING & SOCIAL WORK

1,351,860

The same consequences as outlined previously will be significantly worsened by this course of action.

Ardfenaig offers a home life environment for the elderly people and ensures that there is stability and consistency in the care that is provided. In addition, many of the clients have companions within the unit and benefit from this environment. The disruption caused by uprooting these clients and placing them in other establishments, will have a detrimental effect on their well-being. Ardfenaig is the only elderlv .residential home

Catering and Cleaning staff employed by Commercial Services would either have to be re- deployed or be made redundant.

11 redundancies estimated.

Contrary to Joint Community Care Plan and Department Service Plans.

w )-5 e

This is in contravention to the Corporate Strategy's Strategic Priorities for caring for the vulnerable and disadvantaged (meeting the needs of a growing elderly population/reducing quality and social exclusion) maximising opportunities for individuals (promoting healthy lifestyles) and sustaining strong communities (maintaining local services/community safety).

Contrary to Joint Community Care Plan and Department Service Plan.

15 February 1999

ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL

REVENUE BUDGET PREPARATION 1999/2000

SAVINGS PROPOSALS NOT RECOMMENDED BY CHAIRMAN

DEPARTMENT HOUSING &: SOCIAL WORK

within Mid Argyll and always has a waiting list in operation. Currently there are five elderIy people in hospital awaiting a place in the unit. In order to relocate the clients, it will be necessary to move them to CarnpbeItown, Lochawe and man, therefore, removing them totally from the Mid Argyll area and possibly reducing their contact with family and friends. As it will not be possible to relocate all of the clients to one home, the quality of life enjoyed at the present time will significantly decrease due to the break-up of friendships. Again, clients and families will not be able to

15 February 1999

ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL

REVENUE BUDGET PREPARATION 1999/2000

SAVINGS PROPOSALS NOT RECOMMENDED BY CHAIRMAN

DEPARTMENT HOUSING & SOCIAL WORK

f I I I I I I exercise their right to I

15 February I999