Doncaster Metripolitan Council
Councillors:
56
Wards:
22
Committees:
25
Meetings (2025):
88
Meetings (2024):
113
Meeting
Overview and Scrutiny Management Committee - Doncaster
Meeting Times
Scheduled Time
Start:
Friday, 13th December 2024
10:30 AM
Friday, 13th December 2024
10:30 AM
End:
Friday, 13th December 2024
2:30 PM
Friday, 13th December 2024
2:30 PM
Actual Time
Started:
Thursday, 5th December 2024
12:00 AM
Thursday, 5th December 2024
12:00 AM
Finished:
Thursday, 5th December 2024
12:00 AM
Thursday, 5th December 2024
12:00 AM
Meeting Status
Status:
Confirmed
Confirmed
Date:
13 Dec 2024
13 Dec 2024
Location:
Council Chamber, Civic Office, Waterdale, Doncaster DN1 3BU
Council Chamber, Civic Office, Waterdale, Doncaster DN1 3BU
Meeting Attendees
Committee Member
Conservative Group Leader
Co-Optee
Bernadette Nesbit
Diocese of Hallam Roman Catholic Church
Present, as expected
Council Staff
AHW_PA
Expected
Co-Optee
Antoinette Drinkhill
Church of England Education representative
Present, as expected
Vice-Chair
Councillor Andrea Robinson
Present, as expected
Committee Member
Councillor Leanne Hempshall
Apologies
Committee Member
Councillor Richard A Jones
Present, as expected
Committee Member
Councillor Glynis Smith
Present, as expected
Agenda
1
Apologies for absence.
Minutes
2
To consider the extent, if any, to which the public and press are to be excluded from the meeting.
Minutes
There were no items where the public and press would be excluded from the meeting.
3
Declarations of Interest, if any.
Minutes
There were no declarations made.
4
Minutes from the Meeting of the Overview and Scrutiny Management Committee held on 12th September 2024
Attachments:
- Document Minutes Public Pack, 12/09/2024 Overview and Scrutiny Management Committee 05 Dec 2024
Minutes
That the minutes of the meeting held on 12th September 2024, be agreed as a correct record and signed by the Chair.
5
Public Statements.
[A period not exceeding 20 minutes for statements from up
to 5 members of the public on matters within the
Committee’s remit, proposing action(s) which may be
considered or contribute towards the future development of
the Committee’s work programme].
to 5 members of the public on matters within the
Committee’s remit, proposing action(s) which may be
considered or contribute towards the future development of
the Committee’s work programme].
Minutes
There were no public statements made.
6
City of Doncaster Council 2024-25 Quarter 2 Finance and Performance Improvement Report
Attachments:
- Document OSMC CDC Q2 final 05 Dec 2024
Minutes
The Committee gave consideration to a report that provided the 2024-25 Quarter 2 Finance and Performance information, with the following areas highlighted:
· Good performance with service standards;
· A managed financial position;
· Overspend £8.6m which the Authority predicted when the budget was set, due to underlying risks in Adults, Childrens, Homlessness and waste. A central resource was held to make provision for this eventuality and applied; and
· Allocation of a recovery grant from Central Government, the amount of which would be identified within the Authority’s financial settlement week commencing 16th December 2024.
The Committee asked a number of questions relating to the following areas:
Waste and recycling service cost pressures – It was noted that the Service generated a large amount of income from this but was off track in relation to achieving the required figure. The Committee was reminded that the Authority was at the starting point of awarding a new waste contract that would come with additional cost pressures. It was noted however that Central Government had recognised changes in relation to the waste industry, particularly the expectations for recycling, and resources were being provided for Extended Producer Responsibility that would offset the budget pressures.
Areas of Overspend and mechanisms in place to address the current position – The Committee acknowledged the information that had already been provided as part of the introduction to the report but also discussed the following information.
· Homelessness overspend within Corporate Resources related to not being able to recover all housing benefit claims due to the number of people in temporary accommodation. This figure equated to an £800,000 overspend. It was reported that Central Government had acknowledged this and indicated that funding would be made available nationally.
· Accommodation for the homeless had been addressed following the findings from work undertaken before and since the pandemic that highlighted lots of congregate housing was not creating positive provision but a more blended supported housing approached for the vulnerable with wrap around assistance was required.
Dedicated Schools Grant – the Chair raised that this was an issue the Committee had been monitoring for some time, and noted that Quarter 2 performance was unfortunately slight worse that Quarter 1. In response it was explained that this was due partly to the number of people being supported. With regard to the future, it was noted that the Government had recognised the overall position with regards to the changing needs required to undertake education and health care provision and the escalating costs to achieve this. Local Authorities were not yet aware of the funding that would be allocated and again, were waiting to hear as part of the financial settlement. The Committee noted that Doncaster would have accumulated £37m to support this need. It was also noted that as part of 2023/24 capital programme provision was made to create alternative provision locally rather than having to send children out of area.
A Member outlined that at the Children and Young People Scrutiny Panel it was outlined that money was being spent correctly for the children of Doncaster and there was positive news with regard to restructuring provision that would break the cycle of reliance on out of authority placements. It was also acknowledged that the right arrangements were being progressed and accepted that more could be achieved with additional funding.
Members were informed of the good relationships and strong trust that had been established with education providers enabling the local framework development and inclusivity in schools. It was noted that if provision was correct value for money would automatically follow.
Risk register – In response to a question relating to Doncaster Sheffield Airport being added as a strategic risk, it was explained that the Local Authority was at the point where it was transitioning from procurement to mobilisation, a significant undertaking for the Council, and it was important for service monitoring arrangements to be put in place and reported quarterly.
Members highlighted concern and expressed the wish to be kept more up to date with strategic actions relating to the airport. The Executive Director for Corporate Resources stated and assured the Committee that she was responsible for ensuring decisions were taken legally and within the right timeframe.
Number of Council properties retrofitted to improve energy efficiency – The improvement was highlighted by a Member of the Committee and it was explained the reason for this was the range of works that had been undertaken. One of the main elements was installation of external wall insulation. It was noted that seasonal factors obviously had an impact on works that could be undertaken and the weather was favourable for such works during the Quarter 2 reporting period plus SLH had brought a sub-contractor on board to assist. In response to a query from the Committee it was confirmed that there had not been any issues experienced with the City of Doncaster retrofit schemes.
Planting one million trees – with regards to this target it was explained that this was an ongoing challenge set in 2021 to plant one million trees with planted 326,000 to date. Every opportunity was being taken with land owners, residents, schools and recognised that it wasn’t just for the Council to undertake but the whole City. The Committee was reminded of the Tree Record system where people were encouraged to detail the trees they have planted.
It was reported that the Local Authority helped to established the South Yorkshire Woodland Partnership and had good success with Harworth estates planting 19,000 on the former Rossington Colliery and Redhouse Farm at High Melton planted 40,000. Efforts were being undertaken to try to expand the network of people to contribute.
The free tree giveaway at Kirk Sandall on 7th December was highlighted and a Member stressed they had obtained 50 whips to be planted in Finningley.
A Member also requested if it could be considered that schools be provided with felled trees to use as outdoor seats for children and also to learn about the life of a tree and how they degrade.
EV Charging Points on terraced streets – The Committee noted that work had been ongoing with a company to identify suitable streets where EV charging points could be installed for people who do not have a garden to install the equipment. Unfortunately that company had withdrawn from this work when Central Government changed its funding schemes. It was acknowledged that the Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure scheme had been established for public funding to now provide the facilities with South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority being awarded approximately £9m, which would hopefully contribute to Doncaster’s infrastructure. Members were assured that an assessment process would be undertaken to see where the technology would be best sited.
Solar installations on Council buildings – It was confirmed that currently 18 Council owned buildings had solar installations with work ongoing to identify which other assets could be used and once completed the information would be used to form a business case to inform which buildings could be further invested in, following completion of the asset rationalisation programme.
Remembers were reminded these were not people’s homes but council commercial buildings.
Local authority land allowed to naturalise / wildflower – in response to a question, it was explained that the 5 year strategy to increase the amount of areas was in place, and currently in year 4. Every year each area was appraised with the scientific impact examined. Some of the science identified from areas not mown, included improved air quality and the ground temperature stabilised. The information gained then contributes towards whether the chosen areas would expand or not be repeated if results were poor.
The Chair of the Community and Environment Panel wished to consider the 5 year strategy and results at a meeting during the 2025/26 period.
City centre footfall – It was explained to the committee that consultation had informed the Council of things they were not aware of and plans were now being developed to action with investment available to move proposals forward. The city centre was being addressed holistically, looking at the activities and different options that bring people into the centre.
Members noted that footfall had not returned to its figures pre-pandemic but were 4% lower and had slightly reduced in autumn and winter. It was acknowledged that traditional shopping habits were changing and the number of market stalls had reduced.
Special events, evening entertainment, shopping and educational facilities continued to encourage people to visit and spend in the city centre. In response to Members concerns, it was outlined that Marks and Spencer was a commercial business that had its own national strategy for where stores were located, for example developing on out of town business parks.
It was noted that the City Centre Strategy would address what would support the City of Doncaster, and when completed would be brought to Scrutiny for consideration.
Overspend – the Chair requested that details of overspend be provided and what had been planned to address the position.
· Trade waste – Further to the earlier discussion, it was noted that the market had changed and the level of income generated and expected profit would not be achieved. The competition from larger companies and scale of operation that smaller companies were up against was acknowledged, therefore future larger scale packages would require consideration but investment would also be required. The Committee was also advised that larger chain businesses, for example, fast foot eateries had been advised to take national rather than local waste contracts;
· Crematorium – there were now commercial competitors for this service which had an impact on the local authority’s income generation, therefore consideration of how the Council’s service moves forward was required to ascertain whether further investment was required and to also ensure the same offers as competitors were available. A new bereavement manger had recently been employed and had begun examination into future options and offers.
· Place Directorate – it was noted that it’s overspend was generally non achievement of income across many areas, for example:
Ø if a person received a penalty for using a bus gate their behaviour would change and they would stop using bus gates, reducing the penalty notices and fines issued, impacting on income achieved;
Ø There were changes to the commercial environment for example the cost of both collecting and disposing of waste and these could have a change to income;
Ø Not being able to charge utility companies as much as the local authority was able to in the past; and
Ø Reduced car parking fines.
· Cultural and heritage services – assumptions for income were hard to deliver.
It was acknowledged that due to the examples provided above, investment nationally being constrained and the share of funding available to support Child and Adult social care all led to the Council having to make difficult service choices.
Homelessness – it was outlined to the Committee that the overall scope for the Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy was fourfold:
· To focus on homelessness prevention by getting alongside people and families in the communities where they live. This would be undertaken as part of the wider Thrive work. Homelessness prevention was being focused on with key partners, for example, prisons and hospitals. Close partnership working with local prisons and probation service has had real benefits in recent months.
To ensure the Housing Options front door, run by St Leger Homes of Doncaster, was in a strong position to support people who presented themselves as in need of help, and able to provide the right support at the right time to prevent homelessness, as well as relieving it when it does occur. Within this reducing the number of people who were currently having to be supported in hotels was urgently required.
To develop the right blend of accommodation, both with and without on-site care and support, to help meet Doncaster's needs.
To further develop care and support for people who have more complex needs and help break vicious cycles around rough sleeping.
It was acknowledged that none of this would end homelessness by itself, the Council was constrained by available resources and by national policies and trends. However there was scope to continue to make a positive impact, even in spite of continuing cost of living pressures.
In relation to the private rented sector, St Leger Homes have proactive engagement via it’s Lettings team and a close relationship with the Private Rented Sector(PRS) team in the Council. There was proactive work with the PRS to source accommodation, there were incentives explored with landlords to cover increased rents to prevent tenancy failure and homelessness and support with potential tenants for bonds and upfront costs. The approach with the PRS feels much more proactive and relationship-building now than it did prior to and coming out of the pandemic.
The local authority has developed and delivered further supported accommodation using funding successfully secured from MHCLG. This was reducing the dependency on traditional hostel accommodation and benefitting people who struggle in a hostel environment. For example, a number of new tenancies have been taken by single women. Work was being undertaken with a number of providers bringing through accommodation on a "Housing First" principles so people get secure tenancies and then care and support was wrapped around them. Additionally working with one of Doncaster’s hostels, an on-site assessment hub for rough sleepers with the most intractable challenges was developed. The overall approach was to ensure that well-run hostel provision was a key part of future provision but that there was a diversification of options to help more people in a range of situations break the cycle of homelessness.
With regard to Housing benefit the whole cost could not be recovered if the local authority does not hold the right information about people, but the team was working hard to resolve applications and claim the money from central government.
It was noted that some of the problems with the whole system that had just been described required additional resources to support people with appropriate accommodation, or more and more people would be presenting themselves as homeless. It was reported that once the settlement had been received from Central Government this would be one of the key priorities addressed a part of the budget proposals.
The difficulties relating to homing someone in a transit property was addressed, particularly if they have started developing relationships. It was acknowledged that providing someone in crisis with their home for life was difficult to achieve in the current climate but creating secure arrangements for a person was important in the first instance. The highly pressurised jobs within the Housing Options team was acknowledged and how it could improve provision was an area that required consideration, but also more assistance within communities support for people to help maintain their tenancies or family relationships was an area the local authority was invested in.
Care and support for people to maintain their tenancy rather than moving someone to a different area was highlighted and how it was addressed by both ward members and officers to resolve. It was acknowledged that some people in communities without adequate support could create difficult living situations for communities. It was confirmed that capacity was in place to support people in Doncaster and without question, more resources would support more people.
In response to Members seeking assurance in relation to ensuring as many council homes were being built as possible, it was explained that the local authority could not build enough properties to meet demand. It was outlined that there were 8000 on the Council housing register, 51% require a one bed properties, 36% require a two bed property and noted only 50% of the Council housing stock was one or two bed properties, with half being bungalows. Therefore the challenge was that council stock may not meet the needs of what was required. It was reiterated that providing a house was not the sole solution to help people. The Committee acknowledged there was a large piece of work to be undertaken to relieve the homelessness pressures and included the many issues discussed at this meeting.
The numbers of properties added to the Council housing stock were outlined but were set out in more detail under the St Leger Homes quarterly finance and performance report, detailed under the new build council properties. It was noted that the level of Government subsidy to build the new properties was essential to ensure properties meet the good specification required. A general discussion relating to how properties could be acquired and renovated was undertaken to meet need quickly but not present the authority with long term maintenance problems.
Local housing allowance – Members were reminded of and noted the current rates with the following example, which showed a gap and questioned whether people were tempted to rent lower quality housing which may not be suitable for the person or family.
1 bedroom property = £567 with a local housing allowance of £424.
Out of authority care – The Committee recognised the stability, which was appreciated as it had taken a lot of hard work to achieve this position. It was recognised that only one child going into out of authority care could create upheaval for the child and increased costs for the local authority. Members noted that the authority worked to ensure care planning was right which would then provide the best quality and accurate costings. Over the past year 14 children placed out of authority had moved to inhouse residential placements so that children were closer to family.
It was noted that Acorns, the long term specialist disability setting, welcoming 2 young people back to the area, accessing local schools. Semi Independent living had been introduced in Hatfield and Askern. Moving forward, working with partners the plans would continue under the same strategic path.
The Committee was informed that stabilising costs was important with commissioning work being undertaken to achieve this.
Foster Carers – it was noted there had been an increase in foster carers over the past 12 months, 6 were approved last year with 9 currently going through the application and approval process.
Workforce retention – with regard to social workers and residential care staff it was recognised that the local authority needed to invest in progression planning and to support this a progression framework had been developed to invest in future opportunities. Investment had been made within training, apprenticeships and open university courses.
Supporting young people into housing – this was an area being addressed in detail by the local authority, that holds an excellent priority response for young people, but issues with regards to housing were acknowledged, as had been discussed earlier in this meeting. The local authority held four bedroomed accommodation for young people and noted the complexities of finding appropriate matches could be challenging.
Children missing from education – the Committee was informed that those children who were classed as long term missing from education was, very few, and the movement of children in an out of education was fluid, for example, if a child left the country then returned to the UK. There were a small number of children who were missing education because they did not achieve their first choice of school provision and for a short period result in elective home education. If there were children missing in education it would automatically be flagged as a safeguarding issue, with work undertaken across the region to investigate where the children may be.
Work undertaken with schools with the highest suspension rates – It was explained that there had been investment in this area working with Barnardos, who ran a project where schools and families required additional support in terms of behaviours and interaction. The school network had also undertaken a lot of collective work, sharing good practice with openness, accountability and challenge around policies and practices. There had been an improving picture and work undertaken with partners, multi-agency teams, parents and children to minimise children missing education in Doncaster.
UK Shared Prosperity Fund – it was reported that this programme had been in place for the last two year and would continue into 2025/26 but at a reduced rate. It provided funds for a range of activities for example, helping charities to develop, support business start-ups with specific elements to help people return to work and advance their career once in employment.
It was explained that because the funding was due to reduce modelling had been undertaken to assist with future decisions about the activities that could be supported.
Members were also informed that one of the programmes recently announced was the Trailblazer for economic activity and work was being undertaken to assess how this could be best used to provide opportunities into work but also support businesses in employing people who may have challenges and barriers that made it difficult for them to work.
Through the two funding streams it was hoped that the local authority would have more support on the ground and that it held more influence as a local partner. It was stressed that the local authority also held good relationships with businesses and partners and was in a positive position to make best of the resources available.
RESOLVED that the Committee agreed appropriate consideration had been given to the information presented and that discussion, be noted.
· Good performance with service standards;
· A managed financial position;
· Overspend £8.6m which the Authority predicted when the budget was set, due to underlying risks in Adults, Childrens, Homlessness and waste. A central resource was held to make provision for this eventuality and applied; and
· Allocation of a recovery grant from Central Government, the amount of which would be identified within the Authority’s financial settlement week commencing 16th December 2024.
The Committee asked a number of questions relating to the following areas:
Waste and recycling service cost pressures – It was noted that the Service generated a large amount of income from this but was off track in relation to achieving the required figure. The Committee was reminded that the Authority was at the starting point of awarding a new waste contract that would come with additional cost pressures. It was noted however that Central Government had recognised changes in relation to the waste industry, particularly the expectations for recycling, and resources were being provided for Extended Producer Responsibility that would offset the budget pressures.
Areas of Overspend and mechanisms in place to address the current position – The Committee acknowledged the information that had already been provided as part of the introduction to the report but also discussed the following information.
· Homelessness overspend within Corporate Resources related to not being able to recover all housing benefit claims due to the number of people in temporary accommodation. This figure equated to an £800,000 overspend. It was reported that Central Government had acknowledged this and indicated that funding would be made available nationally.
· Accommodation for the homeless had been addressed following the findings from work undertaken before and since the pandemic that highlighted lots of congregate housing was not creating positive provision but a more blended supported housing approached for the vulnerable with wrap around assistance was required.
Dedicated Schools Grant – the Chair raised that this was an issue the Committee had been monitoring for some time, and noted that Quarter 2 performance was unfortunately slight worse that Quarter 1. In response it was explained that this was due partly to the number of people being supported. With regard to the future, it was noted that the Government had recognised the overall position with regards to the changing needs required to undertake education and health care provision and the escalating costs to achieve this. Local Authorities were not yet aware of the funding that would be allocated and again, were waiting to hear as part of the financial settlement. The Committee noted that Doncaster would have accumulated £37m to support this need. It was also noted that as part of 2023/24 capital programme provision was made to create alternative provision locally rather than having to send children out of area.
A Member outlined that at the Children and Young People Scrutiny Panel it was outlined that money was being spent correctly for the children of Doncaster and there was positive news with regard to restructuring provision that would break the cycle of reliance on out of authority placements. It was also acknowledged that the right arrangements were being progressed and accepted that more could be achieved with additional funding.
Members were informed of the good relationships and strong trust that had been established with education providers enabling the local framework development and inclusivity in schools. It was noted that if provision was correct value for money would automatically follow.
Risk register – In response to a question relating to Doncaster Sheffield Airport being added as a strategic risk, it was explained that the Local Authority was at the point where it was transitioning from procurement to mobilisation, a significant undertaking for the Council, and it was important for service monitoring arrangements to be put in place and reported quarterly.
Members highlighted concern and expressed the wish to be kept more up to date with strategic actions relating to the airport. The Executive Director for Corporate Resources stated and assured the Committee that she was responsible for ensuring decisions were taken legally and within the right timeframe.
Number of Council properties retrofitted to improve energy efficiency – The improvement was highlighted by a Member of the Committee and it was explained the reason for this was the range of works that had been undertaken. One of the main elements was installation of external wall insulation. It was noted that seasonal factors obviously had an impact on works that could be undertaken and the weather was favourable for such works during the Quarter 2 reporting period plus SLH had brought a sub-contractor on board to assist. In response to a query from the Committee it was confirmed that there had not been any issues experienced with the City of Doncaster retrofit schemes.
Planting one million trees – with regards to this target it was explained that this was an ongoing challenge set in 2021 to plant one million trees with planted 326,000 to date. Every opportunity was being taken with land owners, residents, schools and recognised that it wasn’t just for the Council to undertake but the whole City. The Committee was reminded of the Tree Record system where people were encouraged to detail the trees they have planted.
It was reported that the Local Authority helped to established the South Yorkshire Woodland Partnership and had good success with Harworth estates planting 19,000 on the former Rossington Colliery and Redhouse Farm at High Melton planted 40,000. Efforts were being undertaken to try to expand the network of people to contribute.
The free tree giveaway at Kirk Sandall on 7th December was highlighted and a Member stressed they had obtained 50 whips to be planted in Finningley.
A Member also requested if it could be considered that schools be provided with felled trees to use as outdoor seats for children and also to learn about the life of a tree and how they degrade.
EV Charging Points on terraced streets – The Committee noted that work had been ongoing with a company to identify suitable streets where EV charging points could be installed for people who do not have a garden to install the equipment. Unfortunately that company had withdrawn from this work when Central Government changed its funding schemes. It was acknowledged that the Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure scheme had been established for public funding to now provide the facilities with South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority being awarded approximately £9m, which would hopefully contribute to Doncaster’s infrastructure. Members were assured that an assessment process would be undertaken to see where the technology would be best sited.
Solar installations on Council buildings – It was confirmed that currently 18 Council owned buildings had solar installations with work ongoing to identify which other assets could be used and once completed the information would be used to form a business case to inform which buildings could be further invested in, following completion of the asset rationalisation programme.
Remembers were reminded these were not people’s homes but council commercial buildings.
Local authority land allowed to naturalise / wildflower – in response to a question, it was explained that the 5 year strategy to increase the amount of areas was in place, and currently in year 4. Every year each area was appraised with the scientific impact examined. Some of the science identified from areas not mown, included improved air quality and the ground temperature stabilised. The information gained then contributes towards whether the chosen areas would expand or not be repeated if results were poor.
The Chair of the Community and Environment Panel wished to consider the 5 year strategy and results at a meeting during the 2025/26 period.
City centre footfall – It was explained to the committee that consultation had informed the Council of things they were not aware of and plans were now being developed to action with investment available to move proposals forward. The city centre was being addressed holistically, looking at the activities and different options that bring people into the centre.
Members noted that footfall had not returned to its figures pre-pandemic but were 4% lower and had slightly reduced in autumn and winter. It was acknowledged that traditional shopping habits were changing and the number of market stalls had reduced.
Special events, evening entertainment, shopping and educational facilities continued to encourage people to visit and spend in the city centre. In response to Members concerns, it was outlined that Marks and Spencer was a commercial business that had its own national strategy for where stores were located, for example developing on out of town business parks.
It was noted that the City Centre Strategy would address what would support the City of Doncaster, and when completed would be brought to Scrutiny for consideration.
Overspend – the Chair requested that details of overspend be provided and what had been planned to address the position.
· Trade waste – Further to the earlier discussion, it was noted that the market had changed and the level of income generated and expected profit would not be achieved. The competition from larger companies and scale of operation that smaller companies were up against was acknowledged, therefore future larger scale packages would require consideration but investment would also be required. The Committee was also advised that larger chain businesses, for example, fast foot eateries had been advised to take national rather than local waste contracts;
· Crematorium – there were now commercial competitors for this service which had an impact on the local authority’s income generation, therefore consideration of how the Council’s service moves forward was required to ascertain whether further investment was required and to also ensure the same offers as competitors were available. A new bereavement manger had recently been employed and had begun examination into future options and offers.
· Place Directorate – it was noted that it’s overspend was generally non achievement of income across many areas, for example:
Ø if a person received a penalty for using a bus gate their behaviour would change and they would stop using bus gates, reducing the penalty notices and fines issued, impacting on income achieved;
Ø There were changes to the commercial environment for example the cost of both collecting and disposing of waste and these could have a change to income;
Ø Not being able to charge utility companies as much as the local authority was able to in the past; and
Ø Reduced car parking fines.
· Cultural and heritage services – assumptions for income were hard to deliver.
It was acknowledged that due to the examples provided above, investment nationally being constrained and the share of funding available to support Child and Adult social care all led to the Council having to make difficult service choices.
Homelessness – it was outlined to the Committee that the overall scope for the Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy was fourfold:
· To focus on homelessness prevention by getting alongside people and families in the communities where they live. This would be undertaken as part of the wider Thrive work. Homelessness prevention was being focused on with key partners, for example, prisons and hospitals. Close partnership working with local prisons and probation service has had real benefits in recent months.
To ensure the Housing Options front door, run by St Leger Homes of Doncaster, was in a strong position to support people who presented themselves as in need of help, and able to provide the right support at the right time to prevent homelessness, as well as relieving it when it does occur. Within this reducing the number of people who were currently having to be supported in hotels was urgently required.
To develop the right blend of accommodation, both with and without on-site care and support, to help meet Doncaster's needs.
To further develop care and support for people who have more complex needs and help break vicious cycles around rough sleeping.
It was acknowledged that none of this would end homelessness by itself, the Council was constrained by available resources and by national policies and trends. However there was scope to continue to make a positive impact, even in spite of continuing cost of living pressures.
In relation to the private rented sector, St Leger Homes have proactive engagement via it’s Lettings team and a close relationship with the Private Rented Sector(PRS) team in the Council. There was proactive work with the PRS to source accommodation, there were incentives explored with landlords to cover increased rents to prevent tenancy failure and homelessness and support with potential tenants for bonds and upfront costs. The approach with the PRS feels much more proactive and relationship-building now than it did prior to and coming out of the pandemic.
The local authority has developed and delivered further supported accommodation using funding successfully secured from MHCLG. This was reducing the dependency on traditional hostel accommodation and benefitting people who struggle in a hostel environment. For example, a number of new tenancies have been taken by single women. Work was being undertaken with a number of providers bringing through accommodation on a "Housing First" principles so people get secure tenancies and then care and support was wrapped around them. Additionally working with one of Doncaster’s hostels, an on-site assessment hub for rough sleepers with the most intractable challenges was developed. The overall approach was to ensure that well-run hostel provision was a key part of future provision but that there was a diversification of options to help more people in a range of situations break the cycle of homelessness.
With regard to Housing benefit the whole cost could not be recovered if the local authority does not hold the right information about people, but the team was working hard to resolve applications and claim the money from central government.
It was noted that some of the problems with the whole system that had just been described required additional resources to support people with appropriate accommodation, or more and more people would be presenting themselves as homeless. It was reported that once the settlement had been received from Central Government this would be one of the key priorities addressed a part of the budget proposals.
The difficulties relating to homing someone in a transit property was addressed, particularly if they have started developing relationships. It was acknowledged that providing someone in crisis with their home for life was difficult to achieve in the current climate but creating secure arrangements for a person was important in the first instance. The highly pressurised jobs within the Housing Options team was acknowledged and how it could improve provision was an area that required consideration, but also more assistance within communities support for people to help maintain their tenancies or family relationships was an area the local authority was invested in.
Care and support for people to maintain their tenancy rather than moving someone to a different area was highlighted and how it was addressed by both ward members and officers to resolve. It was acknowledged that some people in communities without adequate support could create difficult living situations for communities. It was confirmed that capacity was in place to support people in Doncaster and without question, more resources would support more people.
In response to Members seeking assurance in relation to ensuring as many council homes were being built as possible, it was explained that the local authority could not build enough properties to meet demand. It was outlined that there were 8000 on the Council housing register, 51% require a one bed properties, 36% require a two bed property and noted only 50% of the Council housing stock was one or two bed properties, with half being bungalows. Therefore the challenge was that council stock may not meet the needs of what was required. It was reiterated that providing a house was not the sole solution to help people. The Committee acknowledged there was a large piece of work to be undertaken to relieve the homelessness pressures and included the many issues discussed at this meeting.
The numbers of properties added to the Council housing stock were outlined but were set out in more detail under the St Leger Homes quarterly finance and performance report, detailed under the new build council properties. It was noted that the level of Government subsidy to build the new properties was essential to ensure properties meet the good specification required. A general discussion relating to how properties could be acquired and renovated was undertaken to meet need quickly but not present the authority with long term maintenance problems.
Local housing allowance – Members were reminded of and noted the current rates with the following example, which showed a gap and questioned whether people were tempted to rent lower quality housing which may not be suitable for the person or family.
1 bedroom property = £567 with a local housing allowance of £424.
Out of authority care – The Committee recognised the stability, which was appreciated as it had taken a lot of hard work to achieve this position. It was recognised that only one child going into out of authority care could create upheaval for the child and increased costs for the local authority. Members noted that the authority worked to ensure care planning was right which would then provide the best quality and accurate costings. Over the past year 14 children placed out of authority had moved to inhouse residential placements so that children were closer to family.
It was noted that Acorns, the long term specialist disability setting, welcoming 2 young people back to the area, accessing local schools. Semi Independent living had been introduced in Hatfield and Askern. Moving forward, working with partners the plans would continue under the same strategic path.
The Committee was informed that stabilising costs was important with commissioning work being undertaken to achieve this.
Foster Carers – it was noted there had been an increase in foster carers over the past 12 months, 6 were approved last year with 9 currently going through the application and approval process.
Workforce retention – with regard to social workers and residential care staff it was recognised that the local authority needed to invest in progression planning and to support this a progression framework had been developed to invest in future opportunities. Investment had been made within training, apprenticeships and open university courses.
Supporting young people into housing – this was an area being addressed in detail by the local authority, that holds an excellent priority response for young people, but issues with regards to housing were acknowledged, as had been discussed earlier in this meeting. The local authority held four bedroomed accommodation for young people and noted the complexities of finding appropriate matches could be challenging.
Children missing from education – the Committee was informed that those children who were classed as long term missing from education was, very few, and the movement of children in an out of education was fluid, for example, if a child left the country then returned to the UK. There were a small number of children who were missing education because they did not achieve their first choice of school provision and for a short period result in elective home education. If there were children missing in education it would automatically be flagged as a safeguarding issue, with work undertaken across the region to investigate where the children may be.
Work undertaken with schools with the highest suspension rates – It was explained that there had been investment in this area working with Barnardos, who ran a project where schools and families required additional support in terms of behaviours and interaction. The school network had also undertaken a lot of collective work, sharing good practice with openness, accountability and challenge around policies and practices. There had been an improving picture and work undertaken with partners, multi-agency teams, parents and children to minimise children missing education in Doncaster.
UK Shared Prosperity Fund – it was reported that this programme had been in place for the last two year and would continue into 2025/26 but at a reduced rate. It provided funds for a range of activities for example, helping charities to develop, support business start-ups with specific elements to help people return to work and advance their career once in employment.
It was explained that because the funding was due to reduce modelling had been undertaken to assist with future decisions about the activities that could be supported.
Members were also informed that one of the programmes recently announced was the Trailblazer for economic activity and work was being undertaken to assess how this could be best used to provide opportunities into work but also support businesses in employing people who may have challenges and barriers that made it difficult for them to work.
Through the two funding streams it was hoped that the local authority would have more support on the ground and that it held more influence as a local partner. It was stressed that the local authority also held good relationships with businesses and partners and was in a positive position to make best of the resources available.
RESOLVED that the Committee agreed appropriate consideration had been given to the information presented and that discussion, be noted.
7
St. Leger Homes of Doncaster Limited (SLHD) Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and Tenant Satisfaction Measures (TSMs) update for Quarter 2 (Q2) ended 30th September 2024 (2024/25)
Attachments:
- Document SLH Q2 F and P report 05 Dec 2024
Minutes
NB: At this point in the meeting the Chair, Councillor Jane Kidd, left the meeting and the Vice-Chair, Councillor Andrea Robinson assumed the Chair.
The Committee gave consideration to the report which provided information on the 2024/25 key performance indicators (KPIs), Tenant Perception Survey and latest benchmarking. Members noted that 18 of the 27 KPIs were met or within agreed tolerances of target.
Members addressed the following areas in more detail:
Increased demand for social housing – with regard to the front door requests for Council housing it was explained that the demand was currently stable and the following October 2024 figures were provided:
3119 presentations with the average generally being 2900 to 3000;
448 presented themselves as “Homeless tonight” being a 13% increase; and
124 tenants placed in temporary accommodation being a 17% increase.
It was explained that the above figures were in line with seasonal pressures.
Right To Buy (RTB) position – Following the recent Government announcement relating to the reduction in RTB benefit, in response to the Committee’s question it was explained that St Leger Homes of Doncaster would normally receive 3 to 6 RTB applications per week. In comparison for a 3 week period from end October to beginning November, 359 applications had been received. Staffing resource was therefore required to temporarily assist the RTB team ensuring applications were processed within set timelines.
New build council properties – It was outlined that from the municipal year 2014/15 to present date 418 Council properties had been built through the Housing Revenue Account with an additional 73 either through Section 106 monies or by direct purchase. The next stage of the build programme was aiming for 118 new properties between now and 2027/28, including 83 that were already agreed for development with the remaining 35 waiting for funding confirmation from Homes England. It was noted that if the subsidy from Homes England was reduced then the number of deliverable units could therefore reduce due to affordability, but the Authority needed to ensure it was building or acquiring the right type of property to meet demand. It was highlighted that whatever was built at this time then the sustainability of the properties needed to have a long term life expectancy.
A Member highlighted that the Council could dramatically reduce it’s council housing stock with the amount of people wishing to buy the home they currently live in and they may not be replaced with the same number. A discussion was then held relating to the advantages and disadvantages with regard to modular type build properties.
Void rent loss – In response to a Member’s question relating to retaining employees with a skilled trade, it was explained that with regards to void repairs, all works required were undertaken by the voids team, once a property was acquired by SLH. To do this, the void repairs team had taken on a larger work load. Employing sub-contractors has been considered to assist with meeting void turnaround targets. It was noted that some properties required urgent works to kitchens and bathrooms, not just a property repaint. A sub-contractor could use a team and have a property available in a much speedier time frame, but both regular work flow for the contractor and costs associated with this required addressing.
Decent Homes Programme – It was outlined that the programme started nearly 20 years ago and for those people who would not allow works to be undertaken to their properties, they had been addressed gradually. It was explained that now, for a property to be non-decent, it was either a component that had failed, for example a new roof, or a category 1 hazard, for example, a cracked socket. The Authority and SLH have agreed that the maximum possible stock condition surveys be undertaken each year to identify any of the above, because sometimes a tenant would not report the repair. During 2024 4000 stock condition surveys had been undertaken and the number in 2025 would increase and therefore impact on the decent homes figures depending what hazards were identified.
In response to a question it was explained that access to properties could be an issue for SLH following a stock condition survey due to the tenant not reporting the repair, as they may be happy with the condition of the property and not wish for workmen to undertake the works.
RESOLVED that the report and information provided, be noted.
The Committee gave consideration to the report which provided information on the 2024/25 key performance indicators (KPIs), Tenant Perception Survey and latest benchmarking. Members noted that 18 of the 27 KPIs were met or within agreed tolerances of target.
Members addressed the following areas in more detail:
Increased demand for social housing – with regard to the front door requests for Council housing it was explained that the demand was currently stable and the following October 2024 figures were provided:
3119 presentations with the average generally being 2900 to 3000;
448 presented themselves as “Homeless tonight” being a 13% increase; and
124 tenants placed in temporary accommodation being a 17% increase.
It was explained that the above figures were in line with seasonal pressures.
Right To Buy (RTB) position – Following the recent Government announcement relating to the reduction in RTB benefit, in response to the Committee’s question it was explained that St Leger Homes of Doncaster would normally receive 3 to 6 RTB applications per week. In comparison for a 3 week period from end October to beginning November, 359 applications had been received. Staffing resource was therefore required to temporarily assist the RTB team ensuring applications were processed within set timelines.
New build council properties – It was outlined that from the municipal year 2014/15 to present date 418 Council properties had been built through the Housing Revenue Account with an additional 73 either through Section 106 monies or by direct purchase. The next stage of the build programme was aiming for 118 new properties between now and 2027/28, including 83 that were already agreed for development with the remaining 35 waiting for funding confirmation from Homes England. It was noted that if the subsidy from Homes England was reduced then the number of deliverable units could therefore reduce due to affordability, but the Authority needed to ensure it was building or acquiring the right type of property to meet demand. It was highlighted that whatever was built at this time then the sustainability of the properties needed to have a long term life expectancy.
A Member highlighted that the Council could dramatically reduce it’s council housing stock with the amount of people wishing to buy the home they currently live in and they may not be replaced with the same number. A discussion was then held relating to the advantages and disadvantages with regard to modular type build properties.
Void rent loss – In response to a Member’s question relating to retaining employees with a skilled trade, it was explained that with regards to void repairs, all works required were undertaken by the voids team, once a property was acquired by SLH. To do this, the void repairs team had taken on a larger work load. Employing sub-contractors has been considered to assist with meeting void turnaround targets. It was noted that some properties required urgent works to kitchens and bathrooms, not just a property repaint. A sub-contractor could use a team and have a property available in a much speedier time frame, but both regular work flow for the contractor and costs associated with this required addressing.
Decent Homes Programme – It was outlined that the programme started nearly 20 years ago and for those people who would not allow works to be undertaken to their properties, they had been addressed gradually. It was explained that now, for a property to be non-decent, it was either a component that had failed, for example a new roof, or a category 1 hazard, for example, a cracked socket. The Authority and SLH have agreed that the maximum possible stock condition surveys be undertaken each year to identify any of the above, because sometimes a tenant would not report the repair. During 2024 4000 stock condition surveys had been undertaken and the number in 2025 would increase and therefore impact on the decent homes figures depending what hazards were identified.
In response to a question it was explained that access to properties could be an issue for SLH following a stock condition survey due to the tenant not reporting the repair, as they may be happy with the condition of the property and not wish for workmen to undertake the works.
RESOLVED that the report and information provided, be noted.
8
Overview and Scrutiny Work Plan 2024-25 and Councils Forward Plan of Key Decisions
Attachments:
- Document MASTER WORK PLAN FINAL 202425 05 Dec 2024
- Document Forward Plan for OSMC 05 Dec 2024
Minutes
The Senior Governance Officer presented a report providing details of the Overview and Scrutiny work plan 2024/25 and the Council’s Forward Plan of Key Decisions.
Councillor Steve Cox requested if an extraordinary meeting of OSMC could be arranged to consider issues relating to the proposed reopening of Doncaster Sheffield Airport. The Vice Chair Councillor Andrea Robinson explained that his requested had been noted and the request would be brought to the attention of the Chair, Councillor Jane Kidd.
RESOLVED that:
1. Progress with the Overview and Scrutiny Work Plan, be noted;
2. The Council’s Forward Plan of Key Decision, be noted; and
3. Councillor Cox’s request for a meeting of the OSMC, be brought to the attention of the Chair, Councillor Jane Kidd.
Councillor Steve Cox requested if an extraordinary meeting of OSMC could be arranged to consider issues relating to the proposed reopening of Doncaster Sheffield Airport. The Vice Chair Councillor Andrea Robinson explained that his requested had been noted and the request would be brought to the attention of the Chair, Councillor Jane Kidd.
RESOLVED that:
1. Progress with the Overview and Scrutiny Work Plan, be noted;
2. The Council’s Forward Plan of Key Decision, be noted; and
3. Councillor Cox’s request for a meeting of the OSMC, be brought to the attention of the Chair, Councillor Jane Kidd.
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