Hampshire County Council
Councillors:
78
Wards:
76
Committees:
49
Meetings (2025):
165
Meetings (2024):
156
Meeting
Cabinet - Hampshire
Meeting Times
Scheduled Time
Start:
Tuesday, 10th December 2024
10:30 AM
Tuesday, 10th December 2024
10:30 AM
End:
Tuesday, 10th December 2024
2:30 PM
Tuesday, 10th December 2024
2:30 PM
Meeting Status
Status:
Confirmed
Confirmed
Date:
10 Dec 2024
10 Dec 2024
Location:
Ashburton Hall - HCC
Ashburton Hall - HCC
Meeting Attendees
Committee Member
Deputy Leader and Executive Member for Hampshire 2050 - Finance
Committee Member
Leader of the Council
Agenda
1
Apologies for absence
To receive any apologies for absence.
Minutes
Apologies were noted from standing observers Councillor Jonathan Glen, Chairman of Hampshire 2050 Corporate Services and Resources Select Committee, and Councillor Rob Mocatta, Chairman of Universal Services Select Committee.
2
Declarations of interest
All Members who believe they have a Disclosable Pecuniary Interest in any matter to be considered at the meeting must declare that interest and, having regard to Part 3 Paragraph 1.5 of the County Council's Members’ Code of Conduct, leave the meeting while the matter is discussed, save for exercising any right to speak in accordance with Paragraph 1.6 of the Code. Furthermore all Members with a Personal Interest in a matter being considered at the meeting should consider, having regard to Part 5, Paragraph 4 of the Code, whether such interest should be declared, and having regard to Part 5, Paragraph 5 of the Code, consider whether it is appropriate to leave the meeting while the matter is discussed, save for exercising any right to speak in accordance with the Code.
Minutes
Members were mindful that where they believed they had a Disclosable Pecuniary Interest in any matter considered at the meeting they must declare that interest at the time of the relevant debate and, having regard to the circumstances described in Part 3, Paragraph 1.5 of the County Council's Members' Code of Conduct, leave the meeting while the matter was discussed, save for exercising any right to speak in accordance with Paragraph 1.6 of the Code. Furthermore Members were mindful that where they believed they had a Personal interest in a matter being considered at the meeting they considered whether such interest should be declared, and having regard to Part 5, Paragraph 5 of the Code, considered whether it was appropriate to leave the meeting whilst the matter was discussed, save for exercising any right to speak in accordance with the Code.
3
Minutes of previous meeting
To confirm the minutes of the previous meeting held on 15 November 2024.
Attachments:
- Document Minutes of Previous Meeting 02 Dec 2024
- Document Decision Record - Economic Strategy Update and Regional Update-2024-11-15-Cabinet 02 Dec 2024
- Document Decision record - MTFS update Nov 2024 02 Dec 2024
- Document Decision record - August Finance Update 02 Dec 2024
- Document 2024-11-15 Cabinet Decision Record - Public Health Partnership Arrangements 02 Dec 2024
- Document 2024-11-15 Cabinet Decision Record - Public Health Strategy 02 Dec 2024
- Document Decision Record - Adults Health and Care Directorate 5 Year Strategy Refresh Year One Progress Update 02 Dec 2024
- Document Decision record - Annual Corporate Risk Management report 20241115 02 Dec 2024
- Document Decision record - Corporate Strategic Risk Register Annual Report confidential - 20241115 02 Dec 2024
Minutes
The minutes of the last meeting held on 15 November 2024 were reviewed and agreed.
4
Chairman's Announcements
To receive any announcements the Chairman may wish to make.
Minutes
The Chairman made the following announcements:
He expressed gratitude to all County Council employees who responded to the impacts of storm Darragh and also to storms Bert and Conall. The Highway staff responded to 180 reported emergencies over the weekend, including 130 incidents of fallen trees and vegetation He highlighted the ongoing financial challenges and the upcoming local government settlement on 19 December 2024. The County Council continued to advocate for more freedom to un ring-fence grants, charge commercial rates, and means-test services He noted that despite financial challenges, the County Council was not going bankrupt and would continue to work towards a sustainable future He reported that he spoke at an event in London the previous week to mark the launch of the Localis think tank’s new report, Restoration and Resilience: Building capacity and capability to deliver local services in the South East. The report highlighted that the South East was a vital economic engine for the UK, but its local government system was under severe financial strain He mentioned positive conversations with Southampton, Portsmouth, and the Isle of Wight regarding devolution and the awaited white paper on the subject Congratulations to the Hampshire Youth Justice Service for attaining Youth Justice SEND Quality Lead status with a Child First Commendation He highlighted the work of the Hampshire Forest Partnership, which aims to plant 1 million trees by 2050 Welcomed the government's update on plans for simpler recycling and the extended producer responsibility for packaging scheme Thanked everyone who attended the staff carol concert in the Great Hall which he attended the previous week
He expressed gratitude to all County Council employees who responded to the impacts of storm Darragh and also to storms Bert and Conall. The Highway staff responded to 180 reported emergencies over the weekend, including 130 incidents of fallen trees and vegetation He highlighted the ongoing financial challenges and the upcoming local government settlement on 19 December 2024. The County Council continued to advocate for more freedom to un ring-fence grants, charge commercial rates, and means-test services He noted that despite financial challenges, the County Council was not going bankrupt and would continue to work towards a sustainable future He reported that he spoke at an event in London the previous week to mark the launch of the Localis think tank’s new report, Restoration and Resilience: Building capacity and capability to deliver local services in the South East. The report highlighted that the South East was a vital economic engine for the UK, but its local government system was under severe financial strain He mentioned positive conversations with Southampton, Portsmouth, and the Isle of Wight regarding devolution and the awaited white paper on the subject Congratulations to the Hampshire Youth Justice Service for attaining Youth Justice SEND Quality Lead status with a Child First Commendation He highlighted the work of the Hampshire Forest Partnership, which aims to plant 1 million trees by 2050 Welcomed the government's update on plans for simpler recycling and the extended producer responsibility for packaging scheme Thanked everyone who attended the staff carol concert in the Great Hall which he attended the previous week
5
Deputations
To receive any deputations notified under Standing Order 12.
Minutes
There were no deputations on this occasion.
6
Budget Setting and Provisional Cash Limits 2025/26
To consider a report of the Chief Finance Officer and Director of Corporate Operations providing an update on the financial position and proposing provisional revenue cash limits and capital guideline amounts for 2025/26.
Attachments:
- Document Budget Setting and Provisional Cash Limits 2025/26 02 Dec 2024
- Document Appendix 1 Provisonal Cash Limits 02 Dec 2024
- Document Appendix 2 Local Government Finance Policy Statement 2025-26 02 Dec 2024
- Document Decision record - Budget Setting 17 Dec 2024
Minutes
Cabinet received a report of the Chief Finance Officer regarding the provisional directorate revenue cash limits for 2025/26. The report highlighted the financial challenges and the need for further savings.
Following questions Cabinet heard that regarding the impact of the increase in employer national insurance contributions, central government would fund the County Council for the impact on our employees but would not cover the cost for staff provided by contractors. Regarding the Capital Programme, it was noted that moving to an expenditure basis enabled easier monitoring of spend in year. The Association of Directors of Adult Social Care estimated total inflationary pressures of 6 or 7% in the sector next year as a result of the increased National Insurance costs and other pressures but Councils are only able to increase the Council Tax earmarked for social care by 2%.
The recommendations in the report were considered and agreed. A decision record is attached to these minutes.
Following questions Cabinet heard that regarding the impact of the increase in employer national insurance contributions, central government would fund the County Council for the impact on our employees but would not cover the cost for staff provided by contractors. Regarding the Capital Programme, it was noted that moving to an expenditure basis enabled easier monitoring of spend in year. The Association of Directors of Adult Social Care estimated total inflationary pressures of 6 or 7% in the sector next year as a result of the increased National Insurance costs and other pressures but Councils are only able to increase the Council Tax earmarked for social care by 2%.
The recommendations in the report were considered and agreed. A decision record is attached to these minutes.
7
Hampshire Minerals & Waste Plan: Partial Update Modifications Consultation
To consider a report of the Director of Hampshire 2050 outlining the next stages of plan-making regarding the Hampshire Minerals & Waste Plan Partial Update.
Attachments:
- Document Hampshire Minerals and Waste Plan - Partial Update Modifications Consultation 02 Dec 2024
- Document Decision Record - Hampshire Minerals Waste Plan - Partial Update Modifications Consultation 17 Dec 2024
Minutes
Cabinet received a report of the Director of Hampshire 2050 regarding the next stages of plan-making for the Hampshire Minerals and Waste Plan: Partial Update. The update had been submitted to the inspector in July 2024 and the Council had now been informed that hearings on the plan would take place in February 2025. The report requested delegated authority to make any necessary arrangements during the examination of the Hampshire Minerals and Waste Plan partial update.
It was noted that due to the pre-election period for the County Council’s elections, any consultation linked to the Plan update would likely start in mid May 2025. It was anticipated that a report would come back to Cabinet in autumn/winter 2025 if the inspector recommended any changes following the consultation.
The recommendations in the report were considered and agreed. A decision record is attached to these minutes.
It was noted that due to the pre-election period for the County Council’s elections, any consultation linked to the Plan update would likely start in mid May 2025. It was anticipated that a report would come back to Cabinet in autumn/winter 2025 if the inspector recommended any changes following the consultation.
The recommendations in the report were considered and agreed. A decision record is attached to these minutes.
8
Climate Change Annual Report
To consider a report of the Director of Hampshire 2050 providing an update on progress on Climate Change from July 2023 to July 2024.
Attachments:
- Document Climate Change Annual Report Cover Report 02 Dec 2024
- Document Appendix 1- Climate Change Progress Report 23-24 02 Dec 2024
- Document Appendix 2 - Climate Change Strategic Programmes Framework 02 Dec 2024
- Document Letter from Hampshire 2050 Corporate Services and Resources Select Committee 02 Dec 2024
- Document Decision Record - Climate Change Annual Report 17 Dec 2024
Minutes
Cabinet received a report of the Director of Hampshire 2050 providing the annual climate change report, highlighting the progress made in delivering climate change activities and the importance of cross-organisational work.
It was noted that the Annual Report had been considered by the Hampshire 2050, Corporate Services and Resources Select Committee and the Chairman of the Select Committee had written to the Chairman of Cabinet to provide their feedback, which was included as an appendix to the report.
As part of the discussion Cabinet received comments from non executive member Councillor Wallace, who highlighted that the Climate Emergency was the biggest threat to humanity as recognised by the United Nations. He suggested the County Council work on bringing partners together to develop the electricity infrastructure to support the move away from fossil fuels. It was reported that the Hampshire Prosperity Board was involved in this priority area.
The recommendations in the report were considered and agreed. A decision record is attached to these minutes.
It was noted that the Annual Report had been considered by the Hampshire 2050, Corporate Services and Resources Select Committee and the Chairman of the Select Committee had written to the Chairman of Cabinet to provide their feedback, which was included as an appendix to the report.
As part of the discussion Cabinet received comments from non executive member Councillor Wallace, who highlighted that the Climate Emergency was the biggest threat to humanity as recognised by the United Nations. He suggested the County Council work on bringing partners together to develop the electricity infrastructure to support the move away from fossil fuels. It was reported that the Hampshire Prosperity Board was involved in this priority area.
The recommendations in the report were considered and agreed. A decision record is attached to these minutes.
9
Update on Air Quality Improvement Ministerial Directions
To consider a report of the Director of Hampshire 2050 and the Director of Public Health providing an update on work undertaken, in partnership with several district and borough authorities, to meet the requirements of air quality improvement Ministerial Directions issued in 2019. ?
Attachments:
- Document Air Quality Improvement Ministerial Directions Update 02 Dec 2024
- Document Decision Record - Update on Air Quality Improvement Ministerial Directions 17 Dec 2024
Minutes
Cabinet received a report of the Director of Hampshire 2050 and the Director of Public Health providing an update on the work undertaken to meet the requirements of the ministerial directions on air quality. The report noted the successful actions taken to reduce nitrogen dioxide levels in the target areas.
As part of the discussion Cabinet received comments from non executive member Councillor Wallace who argued that there remained more to do to improve air quality to limits set by the World Health Organisation. It was noted that the Public Health team were working with district Council’s on local air quality plans.
The recommendations in the report were considered and agreed. A decision record is attached to these minutes.
As part of the discussion Cabinet received comments from non executive member Councillor Wallace who argued that there remained more to do to improve air quality to limits set by the World Health Organisation. It was noted that the Public Health team were working with district Council’s on local air quality plans.
The recommendations in the report were considered and agreed. A decision record is attached to these minutes.
10
Annual Safeguarding Report - Children's Services 2023-24
To consider a report of the Director of Children’s Services providing an annual update on safeguarding children activity within Children’s Services during 2023/24.
Attachments:
- Document Children's Services Annual Safeguarding Report 2024 02 Dec 2024
- Document Decision record - Childrens Safeguarding annual report 17 Dec 2024
Minutes
Cabinet received a report from the Director of Children’s Services providing an annual update on safeguarding children activity during 2023/24. It was highlighted that the Council had maintained an outstanding rating when inspected in June 2024, demonstrating that performance remained strong despite high demand.
Following questions Cabinet heard that efforts were made to support retention of social care staff, for example managing caseloads and enabling professional development. Hockley House was highlighted as an innovative model, providing residential units for young people in deep crisis for placements of up to six months.
The recommendations in the report were considered and agreed. A decision record is attached to these minutes.
Following questions Cabinet heard that efforts were made to support retention of social care staff, for example managing caseloads and enabling professional development. Hockley House was highlighted as an innovative model, providing residential units for young people in deep crisis for placements of up to six months.
The recommendations in the report were considered and agreed. A decision record is attached to these minutes.
11
Annual Safeguarding and Quality Report - Adults' Health and Care 2023-24
To consider a report of the Director of Adults’ Health and Care providing an annual update in respect of the local authority responsibilities to monitor the social care market and its safeguarding of vulnerable adults.
Attachments:
- Document Adults' Health and Care Annual Adult Safeguarding report 02 Dec 2024
- Document Decision Record - Adults Safeguarding Annual Report 17 Dec 2024
Minutes
Cabinet received a report of the Director of Adults’ Health and Care providing an annual update on the responsibility to monitor the social care market and it’s safeguarding of vulnerable adults.
Following questions Cabinet heard that the provider market had been relatively stable in the past year with only a small number of exits from the market. There was good supply in the domiciliary care market which enabled good quality provision for the ‘help to live at home’ service.
The recommendations in the report were considered and agreed. A decision record is attached to these minutes.
Following questions Cabinet heard that the provider market had been relatively stable in the past year with only a small number of exits from the market. There was good supply in the domiciliary care market which enabled good quality provision for the ‘help to live at home’ service.
The recommendations in the report were considered and agreed. A decision record is attached to these minutes.
12
Annual Prevent report
To consider a report of the Director of Adults’ Health and Care providing an annual update on delivery of the Prevent duty and responsibilities.
Attachments:
- Document PREVENT Annual Report 2024 02 Dec 2024
- Document Decision Record - Prevent 17 Dec 2024
Minutes
Cabinet received a report of the Director of Adults’ Health and Care providing an annual update on delivery of the Prevent duty. It was noted that the threat level remained at substantial and there had been incidents of extreme activity in Hampshire in the past year. The Hampshire Prevent Partnership Board had been evaluated by the Home Office’s Office for Homeland Security and had been judged to be meeting expectations.
The recommendations in the report were considered and agreed. A decision record is attached to these minutes.
The recommendations in the report were considered and agreed. A decision record is attached to these minutes.
13
Hampshire Community Safety Strategy Group Annual Update
To consider a report of the Director of Public Health providing an update on the work of the Hampshire Community Safety Strategy Group during 2024.
Attachments:
- Document Hampshire Community Safety Strategy Group annual report 02 Dec 2024
- Document Decision Record - Hampshire Community Safety Strategy Group annual update 17 Dec 2024
Minutes
Cabinet received a report of the Director of Public Health providing an update on the work of the Hampshire Community Safety Strategy Group during 2024.
The recommendations in the report were considered and agreed. A decision record is attached to these minutes.
The recommendations in the report were considered and agreed. A decision record is attached to these minutes.
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