Agenda item

To consider the report of the Head of Locality Partnerships which provides an update on some of the key activities between Community Committee meetings and on the continued work being undertaken as part of the functions delegated to Community Committees, Community Champion roles, community engagement, partnership and locality working.

The Committee received a report which provided an update on the key activities being undertaken by the Communities Team together with the work of the Community Champions, which was based upon the priorities identified by the Inner South Community Committee. In presenting the report, it provided the committee with an opportunity to discuss or seek further information on the range of actions currently being undertaken.

Regarding the Children and Families theme, the Committee received an update on the preparations for the next Youth Summit event, with a recommendation that the matter be discussed at the next Children and Young People’s sub group meeting.

In discussing the issue of support for young people in respect of their mental health, it was requested that further information be provided to Members on this, with a suggestion being made that this could potentially be a theme which is incorporated into the Youth Summit. In conclusion, it was suggested that that this be considered further at the next Sub Group meeting.

Responding to comments made regarding the issues faced by some when transitioning from a young person to an adult and the support being provided in this area, it was suggested that this matter could be raised by the Children & Families Champion for consideration at the Corporate Parenting Board.

Members received an update on the work being undertaken in relation to Environment & Community Safety, with a request being made that representation from the Neighbourhood Policing Team / Inspector at future Committee meetings.

With regard to Health, Wellbeing & Adult Social Care, it was noted that the Health & Wellbeing Sub Group met on 1^st March in order to agree its work programme for the coming months. Also, the Committee received an overview of the work being undertaken as part of theVitamin D and Health & Wellbeing initiative, which is covered within Minute No. 45. 

As part of the Committee’s community engagement initiative, the Committee received an update on the Holbeck Residents Drop In session which was held on the 1^st March, and noted a summary of the positive outcomes arising from it, despite the lower than expected turn out.  Members also suggested that it may be beneficial to host similar events in other parts of the Inner South area.

Members discussed the continuing issues around ensuring that people received the appropriate support from across all agencies and employers to help them find work; assist them return to work; or help them increase their skills and experience in preparation for work. The scale of the challenges faced were highlighted and how a co-ordinated, multi-agency approach was required to address such long standing issues.

A Member raised concerns regarding young people on a reduced school timetable, and the issues it raised, such as those in relation to safeguarding. In response, it was agreed that the Chair, on behalf of the Committee would write to the Executive Member for Economy, Culture & Education to highlight such concerns.

RESOLVED –

a)  That the contents of the submitted report, together with the comments made by Members during this discussion, be noted;

b)  That the Chair, on behalf of the Committee write to the Executive Member for Economy, Culture & Education to highlight the concerns raised during the discussion regarding young people on a reduced school timetable, and the issues it raised, such as those in relation to safeguarding. 

(During the consideration of this item, Councillor Truswell left the meeting)