STIRLING COUNCIL

 

MINUTES of the MEETING of STIRLING COUNCIL held in the COUNCIL CHAMBERS,
VIEWFORTH, STIRLING on THURSDAY 7 DECEMBER 2017 at 10.00 AM

 

Present:

Provost Christine SIMPSON (in the Chair)

 

Councillor Maureen BENNISON
Councillor Neil BENNY
Councillor Alistair BERRILL
Councillor Margaret BRISLEY
Councillor Robert DAVIES
Councillor Douglas DODDS
Councillor Martin EARL
Councillor Scott FARMER
Councillor Bryan FLANNAGAN
Councillor Danny GIBSON
Councillor Graham HOUSTON

Councillor Chris KANE
Councillor Graham LAMBIE
Councillor Alison LAURIE

Councillor Alasdair MACPHERSON
Councillor Alastair MAJURY
Councillor Jeremy MCDONALD
Councillor Susan MCGILL
Councillor Ross OXBURGH
Councillor Alasdair TOLLEMACHE
Councillor Jim THOMSON
Councillor Evelyn TWEED

 

In Attendance

 

Douglas Baillie, Broadband Project Manager (Children, Communities & Enterprise)

Kyle Barrie, Economic Development Project Officer (Children, Communities & Enterprise)
Carol Beattie, Interim Director of Children, Communities & Enterprise

Jim Boyle, Chief Officer – Finance (Localities & Infrastructure)
Alastair Brown, Director of Localities & Infrastructure

Stewart Carruth, Chief Executive

Lesley Gallagher, Service Manager Regeneration & Wellbeing (Children, Communities & Enterprise)

Graham Gibson, Communications Officer (Children, Communities & Enterprise)
Carol Hamilton, Service Manager Housing, Augmented Care & Support (Children, Communities & Enterprise)

Jean Houston, Governance Officer (Localities & Infrastructure)

Rebecca Jardine, Communications Officer (Children, Communities & Enterprise)
Kristine Johnson, Chief Officer HR & OD (Children, Communities & Enterprise)

Kevin Kelman, Senior Manager Schools & Learning (Children, Communities & Enterprise)
Neil McIntosh, Tackling Poverty and Inequalities Manager (Children, Communities & Enterprise)

Isabel McKnight, Chief Officer – Strategic Commissioning & Customer Development (Children, Communities & Enterprise)

Alan Milliken, Senior Manager Communities & People (Children, Communities & Enterprise)
Islay Moore, Support Officer (Localities & Infrastructure)

Nicole Paterson, Senior Manager Environment & Place (Localities & Infrastructure)
Brian Roberts, Senior Manager Infrastructure (Localities & Infrastructure)

Fiona Robertson, Interim Senior Manager Economic Development & Regeneration (Children, Communities & Enterprise)

Gillian Taylor, Revenue & Benefits Manager (Localities & Infrastructure)

Marie Valente, Senior Manager Children & Families (Children, Communities & Enterprise)

Margaret Wallace, Safer, Connected Communities Service Manager (Children, Communities & Enterprise)

Iain Wynne, Accountant (Localities & Infrastructure)

Iain Strachan, Chief Officer - Governance (Localities & Infrastructure) (Clerk)

 

Announcements

 

Prior to the start of the meeting the Provost congratulated staff at The Tolbooth, which had recently been named as Venue of the Year at this year’s MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards.

 

The Provost also congratulated staff at Waste Services who had won the SOLACE Best Team prize at the COSLA Excellence Awards. These Awards celebrate innovative projects that make a real difference to local communities. The Waste Service team had also received a Silver Award in the Delivering Better Services category. The Provost said that both Awards acknowledged the hard work and commitment of the staff.

 

The Provost announced with sadness the death of former Councillor Paul Owens, who had served from 2007-2012, and the death of Councillor Tom Coleman, Provost of Falkirk.

 

She also indicated that a short statement by the Leader would be addressed to the meeting of Council.

 

Statement

 

Councillor Scott Farmer raised his concerns for the customers and employees affected by the Royal Bank of Scotland proposed closure of 62 branches across the country. He commended the ward councillors for Bannockburn for their efforts regarding an online petition to save the Bannockburn branch from closure, which had been signed by more than 1300 residents.

 

The Stirling MSP had written to the Royal Bank of Scotland asking them to reconsider and he was seeking an early meeting with officials from the bank to discuss the issue. Councillor Farmer called upon the local MP to seek government intervention on this matter.‌‌

 

He stated that people with mobility restrictions, along with many who did not have access to online banking, would be affected in several communities that would no longer have any mainstream bank.

 

In response to a question from an elected member, the Chief Governance Officer advised that it had not been considered competent to raise this matter under Urgent Business or by way of a Motion.

 

SC55 APOLOGIES

 

There had been no apologies submitted.

SC56 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

 

Councillor Neil Benny declared a non-financial interest in agenda item 18
(thinkWhere Limited Update and Divestment Progress) – having been employed by that organisation until recently.

 

Councillor Margaret Brisley and Councillor Alison Laurie declared a non-financial interest in agenda item E16 (Stirling Development Agency Limited – Strategic Review and Future Arrangements). Both were Directors of the company.‌‌

 

SC57 URGENT BUSINESS

 

There were no matters of urgent business.

 

Agenda‌‌

 

The Provost intimated her intention to alter the order of the Agenda. The items were taken in the order minuted below.

 

SC58 MINUTES

 

1. Special Meeting of Stirling Council – 21 September 2017

   The Minutes of the Special Meeting of Stirling Council held on 21 September 2017 were agreed as an accurate record of proceedings.

    

2. Special Meeting of Stirling Council – 28 September 2017

   The Minutes of the Special Meeting of Stirling Council held on 28 September 2017 were agreed as an accurate record of proceedings.

    

3. Stirling Council – 28 September 2017

   The Minutes of the Stirling Council held on 28 September 2017 were agreed as an accurate record of proceedings.‌

    

4. Special Meeting of Stirling Council – 4 October 2017

   The Minutes of the Special Meeting of Stirling Council held on 4 October 2017 were agreed as an accurate record of proceedings.

    

5. Appeals Panel – 19 October 2017

   The Minutes of the Appeals Panel held on 19 October 2017 were agreed as an accurate record of proceedings.

    

6. Local Review Body – 27 September 2017

   The Minutes of the Local Review Body held on 27 September 2017 were agreed as an accurate record of proceedings.

7. Local Review Body – 7 November 2017‌‌

   The Minutes of the Local Body Review held on 7 November 2017 were agreed as an accurate record of proceedings.

    

8. Local Review Body – 13 November 2017

   The Minutes of the Local Review Body held on 13 November 2017 were agreed as an accurate record of proceedings.‌‌

    

9. Local Review Body – 23 November 2017

   The Minutes of the Local Review Body held on 23 November 2017 were agreed as an accurate record of proceedings.

    

10. Pre-Determination Hearing Committee – 4 October 2017

The Minutes of the Pre-Determination Hearing Committee held on 4 October
2017 were agreed as an accurate record of proceedings.

 

SC59 WRITTEN QUESTIONS

 

Seven written questions had been received in terms of Standing Order 41. The
questions and answers are attached at Appendix 1 to these Minutes.

 

The Members who had put the written questions were allowed one supplementary question and the supplementary questions and answers are also included in Appendix 1.

 

SC60 QUESTION TIME

 

In terms of Standing Order 48, Members had the opportunity to put questions to the Provost, the Leader of the Council, any Portfolio Holder or Committee Convener or Chair of any Panel as appropriate regarding any business included in the Volume of Minutes circulated with the agenda for the meeting.

 

No questions were put.

 

SC61 STIRLING COUNCIL PRIORITIES 2017 – 2022

 

The report submitted by the Interim Director of Children, Communities and Enterprise set out the strategic priorities of the SNP/Labour Partnership Administration. The report outlined details of the areas for action and investigation under each of these priorities.

 

The Leader of the Council presented the priorities which had been developed to improve the lives of all citizens across all communities. The six key priorities, which were each underpinned with a number of considerations, would help guide members and officers in decision making and moving Stirling forward and these were:

• Priority A

  We will look after all of our citizens, from early years through to adulthood, by providing quality education and social care services, to allow everybody to lead their lives to their full potential.

   

• Priority B

  We will target all forms of poverty across our communities and mitigate the impact of austerity and welfare cuts on those hit the hardest.

   

• Priority C

  We will create more affordable housing and social housing in all of Stirling’s communities. We will lead by example as an organisation in setting exceptional standards in building practice, environmental practice, employer practice, tenant relations and homelessness prevention.

   

• Priority D

  We will deliver inclusive economic growth and promote prosperity. We will deliver a City Region Deal and pursue policies and solutions that encourage high quality, high paying jobs into all of Stirling’s communities.

   

• Priority E

  We will create and implement environment and infrastructure improvements. We will deliver new ownership and delivery methods around energy generation, public transport and internet access, ensuring profits and services work to community, not commercial priorities.

   

• Priority F

        We will commit and coordinate our resources to ensuring Stirling                    becomes a must visit destination; with heritage, culture, environment              and economic strategies working hand in hand to encourage tourists to            stay for a minimum of three days and two nights.

 

The Leader responded to points of clarification and questions from elected members.

 

Motion

 

“That Council agrees:

 

1. to approve the SNP/Labour Partnership Administration’s strategic priorities as the strategic priorities of the Council for the term of the Council;

    

2. to commence a consultation in January 2018 on the Council’s Budget for 2018/19 and subsequent years, with Budget options reflecting the Council’s new strategic priorities.

    

   Moved by Councillor Scott Farmer, seconded by Councillor Danny Gibson.”

    

   Amendment

    

   “That Council agrees:

    

   to approve an additional first Key Priority – We will keep the Council Finances stable and ensure that staff, management, service users and citizens are kept fully involved and consulted on necessary changes to the organisation, underpinned with
   the following considerations:

   1. to bring forward a long term financial strategy to set a savings target for future budgets;

       

   2. to continue the Priority Based Budgeting process whereby communities are fully consulted in the autumn of each year to understand the financial position of the council and hear the full range of options from council management;

       

   3. to set council budgets in a transparent way and enhance the role of scrutiny of the council’s financial position by bringing all options through the Finance & Economy Committee;

       

   4. to monitor existing workstreams in the priority based budgeting process and ensure that these are fully delivered;

       

   5. to maintain a target of 4% of revenue available in Council reserves to offset any significant future financial risks;

       

   6. to set future budgets without using reserves for anticipated expenditure;

       

   7. to create a scheme to listen to citizens and staff at all levels for suggestions of efficiency and policy savings;

       

   8. to work positively with trade unions to ensure a partnership approach to setting budgets;

       

   9. to raise council tax only to pay for improvements and investment in frontline services or for borrowing for capital investment;

       

   10. to introduce a Financial Impact Test to assess all Council policies against their current and future resource commitments to ensure financial stability;

        

   11. to set the Capital Programme over a rolling ten year period and set a five year revenue budget forecast annually;

        

   12. to remove delegation from officers to pay out any individual severance package of more than £10,000 in total value delegating authority for approval of these to the Finance & Economy Committee.

 

Moved by Councillor Neil Benny, seconded by Councillor Ross Oxburgh.”
On the roll being called the Members present voted as follows

For the Amendment (9)

 

Councillor Neil Benny
Councillor Alistair Berrill
Councillor Robert Davies
Councillor Douglas Dodds
Councillor Martin Earl
Councillor Bryan Flannagan
Councillor Alastair Majury
Councillor Jeremy McDonald
Councillor Ross Oxburgh

Against the Amendment (14)

 

Councillor Maureen Bennison
Councillor Margaret Brisley
Councillor Scott Farmer
Councillor Danny Gibson
Councillor Graham Houston
Councillor Chris Kane
Councillor Graham Lambie
Councillor Alison Laurie
Councillor Alasdair MacPherson
Councillor Susan McGill
Councillor Christine Simpson
Councillor Alasdair Tollemache
Councillor Jim Thomson
Councillor Evelyn Tweed

 

On the roll being called the Members present voted as follows
For the Motion (14)

Councillor Maureen Bennison
Councillor Margaret Brisley
Councillor Scott Farmer
Councillor Danny Gibson
Councillor Graham Houston
Councillor Chris Kane
Councillor Graham Lambie
Councillor Alison Laurie
Councillor Alasdair MacPherson
Councillor Susan McGill
Councillor Christine Simpson
Councillor Alasdair Tollemache
Councillor Jim Thomson
Councillor Evelyn Tweed

 

Decision

 

The Motion was carried with 14 votes in favour. Accordingly the Council agreed:

 

1. to approve the SNP/Labour Partnership Administration’s strategic priorities as the strategic priorities of the Council for the term of the Council; and

    

2. to commence a consultation in January 2018 on the Council’s Budget for
   2018/19 and subsequent years, with Budget options reflecting the Council’s new strategic priorities.”

 

(Reference: Report by Interim Director of Children, Communities and Enterprise, dated 28 November 2017 submitted)

 

Councillor Davies left the meeting

SC62 POLITICAL DECISION MAKING STRUCTURE AND CHANGES IN GOVERNANCE
ARRANGEMENTS

 

This report was submitted by the Director of Localities and Infrastructure to Council further to the Council’s decision of 24 May 2017, namely that the Chief Governance Officer consult with the Group Leaders on a decision making structure and bring a report back to Council on the same.

 

The report requested that the Council consider the retention of the existing
committee system, but with (i) the removal of the current Education and Social Care & Health Committees, and (ii) the creation of a new Children & Young People Committee and a new Adult Social Care Panel. If Council approved this, then Council was asked to determine certain procedural matters associated with the same, including the appointment of members to serve on the new committee and panel, and the appointment of a Convener/Chair and Vice-Convener/Vice-Chair to each.

 

The report also requested approval to (i) re-establish a Health and Safety Panel and appoint members to serve on the Panel, and (ii) increase the membership of the Environment and Housing Committee from 7 to 9 Members and make appointments on the basis of 1 additional Administration member and 1 Opposition member.

 

In addition, Councillor Alasdair MacPherson had recently resigned as the Depute Portfolio Holder for Housing and also stood down from the Housing Advisory Group. The Council was asked to appoint Councillor Graham Lambie and Councillor Danny Gibson as Joint Depute Portfolio Holders for Housing and agree that Councillor Lambie fill the vacant post on the Housing Advisory Group.

 

Motion

 

“That Council agrees the recommendations set out in the submitted report.
Moved by Councillor Scott Farmer and seconded by Councillor Danny Gibson.”

Amendment

 

“That, in addition to the recommendations set out in the submitted report, Council agrees:

 

To create a post of Portfolio Holder for Education to serve on the Children and Young People Committee to ensure that educational issues are given a high priority in the new structure. The Chief Governance Officer will amend Standing Orders and Schemes of Delegation to reflect the new post. The post will not attract an additional responsibility payment.

 

Moved by Councillor Bryan Flannagan, seconded by Councillor Alistair Berrill.”
On the roll being called the Members present voted as follows

For the Amendment (9)

 

Councillor Neil Benny
Councillor Alistair Berrill
Councillor Douglas Dodds
Councillor Martin Earl
Councillor Bryan Flannagan

Councillor Alastair Majury
Councillor Jeremy McDonald
Councillor Ross Oxburgh
Councillor Alasdair Tollemache

 

Against the Amendment (13)

 

Councillor Maureen Bennison
Councillor Margaret Brisley
Councillor Scott Farmer
Councillor Danny Gibson
Councillor Graham Houston
Councillor Chris Kane
Councillor Graham Lambie
Councillor Alison Laurie
Councillor Alasdair MacPherson
Councillor Susan McGill
Councillor Christine Simpson
Councillor Jim Thomson
Councillor Evelyn Tweed

 

The Amendment fell by 9 votes to 13 and the Motion was carried without the need for a second vote.

Voting for Convener of the Children and Young People Committee was as follows:-
Councillor Susan McGill 14 votes

Councillor Bryan Flannagan 8 votes

 

Decision

 

The Council agreed as follows:

 

1. the Council agreed:-

    

   1. to retain the existing committee system of political decision making, but with (i) the removal of the current Education Committee and the current Social Care and Health Committee, and (ii) the creation of a new Children and Young People Committee and a new Adult Social Care Panel, the terms of reference of each being broadly as set out in paragraphs 3.2 and 3.3, respectively, of the report, this change in structure taking effect following the meeting of full Council scheduled for 1 March 2018;

       

   2. membership to serve on the Children and Young People Committee and the new Adult Social Care Panel as set out in Appendix 3 to these Minutes and that Councillor Susan McGill should be the Convener of the Children and Young People Committee and Councillor Margaret Brisley should be Vice-Convener of Children and Young People Committee. It was agreed that the Adult Social Care Panel should appoint their Chair and Vice Chair;

       

   3. that those voting statutory religious representatives and the non-voting teacher representatives currently appointed to the Education Committee, as set out in paragraphs 3.5 to 3.7, be appointed to the Children and Young People Committee and that there would still be the ability for two non-voting pupil representatives to be appointed;

   4. to remit to the Chief Governance Officer to bring forward a new programme of meetings for the period from 2 March 2018 onwards for the remaining duration of this Council term, the Children and Young People Committee to meet in week 1 of each cycle.

       

2. the Council agreed:-

    

   1. to re-establish a Health and Safety Panel to act as the principal forum for consultation between the Council, Services and the Trades Unions on all corporate health and safety issues and any health and safety issues referred from Services, its remit broadly being as set out in paragraph 3.14 of this report;

       

   2. to appoint four members to serve on the Health and Safety Panel as set out in Appendix 3 to these Minutes and appointed Councillor Danny Gibson as Chair of the Panel;

       

3. to appoint Councillor Graham Lambie and Councillor Danny Gibson as Joint Depute Portfolio Holders for Housing;

    

4. to appoint Councillor Graham Lambie to the Housing Advisory Group;

    

5. to increase the membership of the Environment and Housing Committee from 7 to 9 members and appointed Councillor Graham Lambie and Councillor Alastair Majury to serve on the Committee;

    

6. to remit to the Chief Governance Officer, in consultation with the Group Leaders, to make the necessary consequential adjustments to the Council’s Standing Orders, Scheme of Delegation and other consultation documents to effect the decisions of the Council, with the same being circulated to members once completed; and

    

7. to note that the Chief Governance Officer would carry out the regular annual review of the Council’s Standing Orders, Scheme of Delegation and other constitutional documents, and consult with the Group Leaders on the same, and bring any proposed changes to the March meeting of Council for consideration.

 

(Reference: Report by Director of Localities & Infrastructure, dated 29 November 2017 submitted)

 

SC63 APPOINTMENTS TO EXTERNAL ORGANISATIONS

 

Stirling Council had traditionally appointed Elected Members to serve on various Council companies, local organisations and other external organisations.

 

At its meeting on 8 December 2016, the Council agreed a revised approach to the governance of its arms-length external organisations and other strategically funded bodies, and to review those organisations which Members were appointed to.

 

At the Re-Convened Statutory Meeting of Stirling Council on 24 May 2017, Council agreed to appoint Elected Members to Council companies, local organisations and other external organisations in which the Council has an interest. A number of these appointments were for a 6 month period until the end of December 2017 while work was undertaken to put in place alternative governance arrangements for these organisations in order to implement the Council decision of 8 December 2016.

 

The report, submitted by the Director of Localities & Infrastructure, sought a 6 month extension to these specific appointments, as noted at paragraph 3.5 of this report, until 30 June 2018, or such earlier date as the anticipated revision of the governance arrangements are satisfactorily completed, to allow time for completion of the governance review.

 

The report also sought to appoint an elected member as a Board Member on the Rural Stirling Housing Association Management Committee, following the resignation of the previously appointed Member to this role.

 

Voting for a Board Member on the Rural Stirling Housing Association Management Committee was as follows:

 

Councillor Martin Earl – 8 votes
Councillor Graham Lambie – 14 votes

 

Decision‌

 

Accordingly the Council agreed:-

 

1. to extend the appointment of Elected Member to those external organisations as noted at paragraph 3.5 of the report, until 30 June 2018, or such earlier date as the anticipated revision of the governance arrangements was satisfactorily completed to allow time for completion of the governance review relating to these organisations; and

    

2. to nominate and confirm Councillor Graham Lambie to fill the Board Member vacancy on the Rural Stirling Housing Association Management Committee.

 

(Reference: Report by Director of Localities & Infrastructure, dated 8 November 2017 submitted)

 

SC64 STIRLING COUNCIL’S ANNUAL REPORT 2016-17

 

The report, submitted by the Interim Director of Children, Communities and
Enterprise, presented Stirling Council’s Annual Report for 2016-17.

 

Each year, as part of the Council’s performance reporting arrangements, an annual reportwas produced for the previous financial year. The report gave a review of progress towards achieving the Council’s priorities and performance targets, highlighting key achievements for 2016-17.

 

Members commended the hard work undertaken by staff and the Chief Executive in taking forward the Council’s priorities and performance targets during the year.

 

Decision

 

The Council agreed to endorse the contents of Stirling Council’s Annual Report 2016- 17.

 

(Reference: Report by Interim Director of Children, Communities and Enterprise, dated 24 November 2017, submitted)

SC65 WELFARE REFORM (UNIVERSAL CREDIT) UPDATE

 

The report, submitted by the Interim Director of Children, Communities and
Enterprise, had been taken at the Community Planning and Regeneration Committee on 9 November 2017, where the Committee agreed to defer consideration to the meeting of Stirling Council on 7 December 2017.

 

Universal Credit (UC) was a new benefit administered by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and was being gradually introduced across Great Britain, replacing 6 means-tested benefits. These were: Housing Benefit, Child Tax Credits, Working Tax Credit, Jobseeker’s Allowance (Income Based), Income Support and Employment and Support Allowance (Income Related) for working-age people. The basic provisions to implement UC were set out in the Welfare Reform Act 2012, and more detail had been provided in regulations.

 

UC ‘live service’ had been in place in Stirling since May 2015; this had been a small percentage and only for single people with no health issues or Housing Costs.

 

UC ‘full service’ extended to Stirling on 28 June 2017 for all new claims applying for the above benefits. This was for people of working age who were in or out of work and on a low income. This did not include pension age claimants.

 

Officers responded to Members’ questions and points of clarification. They reported that there had been an increase in rent arrears and that representatives on Forth Housing Association and Rural Stirling Housing Association had confirmed that these organisations were facing similar experiences. However the housing associations had not yet raised concerns regarding any impact on cash flow. Officers advised that
they were sharing as much information as possible with tenants and landlords to maximise support to people, including leaflets and online publicity.

 

The report set out methods being undertaken to mitigate the impact of UC, and staff in a range of services were helping people with their online claims.

 

Motion

 

“That Council agrees:

 

To approve recommendation 2.1 as set out in the report by the Interim Director of Children, Communities & Enterprise and substitutes the following for recommendation 2.2:

 

1. to establish a Short Life Working Group (SLWG) to look specifically at how the Council’s policies, procedures directly interact with:

    

   1. People applying for universal credit

       

   2. People in receipt of universal credit

       

   3. People facing a change in their interactions with Stirling Council as a consequence of universal credit

2. to appoint members to serve on the Group on the following basis and determine which member will be the Chair:

    

   Convener of the Community Planning & Regeneration Committee
   Convener of the Finance & Economy Committee

   Portfolio Holder for Housing

   Convener of the Education Committee (or equivalent)
   1 Conservative member

   1 Green member

    

   (The Group will also include officers from relevant services to be appointed by the Chief Executive).

    

3. to agree that the Short Life Working Group report back to Council within 3 meeting cycles with recommendations for any changes or enhancements to Council policies, procedures and resources (including human resources) to mitigate the impact of universal credit.

 

Moved by Councillor Chris Kane and seconded by Councillor Maureen Bennison.” The Motion was unanimously agreed without the need for a vote.

Decision

 

The Council agreed:-

 

1. to consider and comment on the Introduction of Universal Credit Full Service (UCFS) Roll Out and the potential impact on Council Services and Stirling residents;

    

2. to establish a Short Life Working Group (SLWG) to look specifically at how the Council’s policies, procedures directly interact with:

    

   1. People applying for universal credit

       

   2. People in receipt of universal credit

       

   3. People facing a change in their interactions with Stirling Council as a consequence of universal credit

       

3. to appoint members to serve on the Group on the following basis and determine which member will be the Chair:

    

   Convener of the Community Planning & Regeneration Committee
   Convener of the Finance & Economy Committee

   Portfolio Holder for Housing

   Convener of the Children & Young People Committee
   1 Conservative member – Councillor Martin Earl

   1 Green member – Councillor Alasdair Tollemache

    

   (The Group will also include officers from relevant services to be appointed by the Chief Executive).

4. that the Short Life Working Group report back to Council within 3 meeting cycles with recommendations for any changes or enhancements to Council policies, procedures and resources (including human resources) to mitigate the impact of universal credit.

 

(Reference: Report by Interim Director of Children, Communities and Enterprise, dated 31 October 2017, submitted).

 

SC66 IMPLEMENTATION OF LIVING WAGE INCREASE

 

The report, submitted jointly by the Interim Director of Children, Communities and Enterprise and the Director of Localities and Infrastructure, set out the implications of implementing the increase that had been announced in November 2017 by the Living Wage Foundation, which would be due to be paid in April 2018. Officers were requested by the Administration to consider the financial implications of an early updating of the Living Wage from 16 November 2017.

 

The report was considered at the meeting of Finance and Economy Committee on 23 November 2017 who agreed to make the recommendations set out in the submitted report.

 

The Chief Officer HR & OD confirmed that there would be discussions with the trade unions regarding the rate to be paid to trainees and apprentices. She also stated that the procurement process encouraged contractors to be Living Wage employers.

 

Decision

 

The Council agreed:-

 

1. to approve the implementation of the living wage from 16 November 2017;

    

2. to approve the implementation of Option 2, para 3.5, to apply a minimum hourly rate of 38.80, and

    

3. that the cost from early implementation in 2017/18 was funded from
   Reserves.

 

(Reference: Joint Report by Interim Director of Children, Communities & Enterprise and Director of Localities and Infrastructure, dated 28 November 2017 submitted)

 

In terms of Standing Order 39, the Provost adjourned the meeting
at 12.35pm for a lunch break

 

The Meeting reconvened at 1.25pm

 

Councillor Alasdair MacPherson and Councillor Maureen Bennison left the meeting when it adjourned for a lunch break.

 

SC67 LOCAL OUTCOMES IMPROVEMENT PLAN (LOIP) AND LOCALITY ACTION
PLAN‌‌‌‌

 

The report, submitted by the Interim Director of Children, Communities and
Enterprise, provided Council members with an update on the development of the Local Outcomes Improvement Plan (LOIP) and Associated Locality Action Plans as required under the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015.

 

The LOIP was a ten year strategic plan that set out the vision, outcomes and priority actions for the Stirling Community Planning Partnership (CPP) with a focus on closing the inequalities gaps in Stirling. The LOIP was owned by the Community Planning Partnership Leadership Group, and they had responsibility for resourcing and implementing the plan.

 

The LOIP was underpinned by four area profiles for Rural North, Rural South, Urban North and Urban South and more detailed Locality Action Plans for communities experiencing most disadvantage. The first Locality Action Plan had been prepared for Raploch as evidence indicated that this was the community experiencing the greatest disadvantage.

 

Further consultation on the LOIP and Locality Action Plan would take place during December 2017 and January 2018 and the final versions being presented to the Community Planning Leadership Group in February 2018 for approval.

 

Councillors commended officers in the Communities Team on their work developing the LOIP and Locality Action Plan

 

Decision

 

The Council agreed:-

 

1. to consider the consultative draft Local Outcomes Improvement Plan (LOIP) and Locality Action Plan and provide feedback;

    

2. to delegate authority to the Director of Children, Communities and Enterprise, in consultation with the Group Leaders, to finalise the Council’s input into the LOIP,up to and including final agreement of the same by the Community
   Planning Partnership;

    

3. that the finalised LOIP would be circulated to all Elected Members following agreement of the same by the Community Planning Partnership in February 2018; and

    

4. that a progress report on the LOIP would be submitted to a future meeting of Council.

 

(Reference: Report by Interim Director of Children, Communities and Enterprise, dated 20 November 2017 submitted)

SC68 FREE WI-FI OPTIONS

 

In line with delivering the Stirling Digital Strategy and aligning Stirling’s aspiration to become a world class visitor destination, it was vital that Stirling integrated free access to the internet, via free Wi-Fi services in the City and Town Centres, throughout the Council area.

 

The initiative would help to enable the public, visitors and businesses to connect to information and people. This would increase the time spent in the area, at individual business premises and in turn raised the level of spend.

 

An integrated free Wi-Fi service would also help to remove the obstacle of
international roaming charges, which acted as a barrier to tourists gaining instant information via their smart phones and tablets.

 

YouGov research had revealed that nearly 43% of Britons were frustrated by the lack of free, public Wi-Fi networks available across the UK, while one in four people (24%) would be more likely to stay longer in a town or city centre with access to free Wi-Fi.

 

Recent market analysis on tourism within Stirling, carried out by a research team at Stirling University, showed that 35% of tourists in the rural areas experienced a lack of Wi-Fi as an issue when visiting the area. In addition, the Stirling Visitor Survey detailed that 63% of people surveyed and 66% of 16-34 year olds thought that free Wi-Fi would have enhanced their visit.

 

The provision of free Wi-Fi into the City of Stirling and rural town centres would help make the internet more accessible for everyone and would particularly help groups who currently struggled to afford internet access. This would help to break down digital barriers and tackle digital inequality.

 

Two options were presented to Finance and Economy Committee (23 November
2017):

 

1. Option 1 – Stirling Council procures the entire implementation of free Wi-Fi across both the city and main rural areas, taking on the management and ongoing revenue costs. The on-costs would be recuperated through the sale of advertisements on the landing page;

    

2. Option 2 – Stirling Council would make available a capital pot from existing broadband budget, set up a Wi-Fi procurement and make available officer support, to enable communities to bid into the pot for the purposes of covering the capital costs of implementing free Wi-Fi in their area. In order to receive funding, communities would have to produce a sustainable business plan, showing how they would assume the revenue costs. There is the potential for communities to generate income from this option.

 

Finance and Economy Committee had approved Option 2 at its meeting on 23
November 2017 and had agreed to recommend that Council consider the use of the capital allocation from the existing Broadband budget for rural broadband solutions also support delivery of Wi-Fi solutions across Stirling.

Motion

 

“That Council agrees:

 

1. to note the decision approved by Finance and Economy Committee (23
   November 2017) to go with Option 2 as detailed at para 3.2 – 3.13; and

2. to approve the use of the existing rural broadband capital budget for both city and rural town centre free Wi-Fi.

 

Moved by Councillor Margaret Brisley and seconded by Councillor Alison Laurie.”

 

Direct Negative

 

Councillor Jeremy McDonald, seconded by Councillor Neil Benny, moved the Direct Negative.

 

The Direct Negative, having been duly moved and seconded, the vote was taken for and against the Motion as required in terms of Standing Order 72.

 

The vote on the Motion was as follows:
For the Motion (11)

Councillor Margaret Brisley
Councillor Scott Farmer
Councillor Danny Gibson
Councillor Graham Houston
Councillor Chris Kane
Councillor Graham Lambie
Councillor Alison Laurie
Councillor Susan McGill
Councillor Christine Simpson
Councillor Jim Thomson
Councillor Evelyn Tweed

 

Against the Motion (9)

 

Councillor Neil Benny
Councillor Alistair Berrill
Councillor Douglas Dodds
Councillor Martin Earl
Councillor Bryan Flannagan
Councillor Alastair Majury
Councillor Jeremy McDonald
Councillor Ross Oxburgh
Councillor Alasdair Tollemache

 

The Motion was carried by 11 votes to 9.

 

Decision

 

Accordingly the Council agreed:-

 

1. to note the decision approved by Finance and Economy Committee (23
   November 2017) to go with Option 2 as detailed at para 3.2 – 3.13; and

2. to approve the use of the existing rural broadband capital budget for both city and rural town centre free Wi-Fi.

 

(Reference: Report by Interim Director of Children, Communities & Enterprise, dated 30 November 2017 submitted).

 

SC69 MOTIONS IN TERMS OF STANDING ORDER 16

 

Prior to the Meeting, Elected Members had received supplementary information from Officers on the subject of these Motions. The supplementary information is attached as Appendix 2 to these Minutes.

 

1. Advice Services
Motion

“Council notes that the third sector currently delivers a range of advice services across Stirling District. The Citizens Advice Bureau and the Council on Disability, along with Shelter, Action in Mind, Scottish Association for Mental Health and many other organisations provide a great deal of support to the people of Stirling.

 

Council believes that Advice Services provided independently of the Council or other arms of Government by the voluntary sector are essential to the people of Stirling.

 

Council resolves to instruct officers to review Stirling Council advice services, in order to avoid duplication in service provision, and have a complimentary service provided by the third sector, and to bring proposals to ensure funding stability to third sector organisations.

 

Signed by Councillor Jeremy McDonald and Councillor Alasdair Tollemache.”
The vote on the Motion was as follows:

For 9

Against 11

 

Amendment

 

“Council notes that the third sector currently delivers a range of advice services across Stirling District. The Citizens Advice Bureau and the Council on Disabilities, along with Shelter, Action in Mind, Scottish Association for Mental Health and many other organisations provide a great deal of support to the people of Stirling.

 

Council believes that Advice Services provided independently of the Council or other arms of Government by the voluntary sector are essential to the people of Stirling.

 

Council resolves to continue to utilise the breadth of services and expertise within the third sector to support and enhance the Advice Services currently offered by our dedicated council staff and services subject to compliance with the Council’s legal obligations.

 

Signed by Councillor Chris Kane and Councillor Scott Farmer.”

 

The amendment was agreed unanimously without the need for a roll call vote.

1. Stirling University
   Motion

   “Council notes that 2017 represents the 50th Anniversary of the University of Stirling.

    

   Council notes the excellent international reputation the University has rightly earned and the substantial contribution it has made to life in Stirling.

    

   Council congratulates Stirling University on its anniversary and looks forward to many more years of partnership.”

    

   Signed by Councillor Ross Oxburgh and Councillor Alastair Majury

    

   The Motion was carried without the need for a vote. However Councillor Tollemache asked that his dissent and concerns regarding the pay structure of the University be recorded.

    

   The Committee resolved under Section 50A (4) of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 that the public be excluded from the meeting for the following item of
   business on the grounds they involved the disclosure of exempt information as defined in Paragraphs 6, 9 and 6, respectively, of Part 1 of Schedule 7A of the Local
   Government (Scotland) Act 1973.

    

   SC70 STIRLING DEVELOPMENT AGENCY LIMITED – STRATEGIC REVIEW AND ARRANGEMENTS

    

   Stirling Development Agency Limited (“SDA”) was a 50/50 joint venture between Stirling Council and Cromwell Development Holdings UK Limited (part of the Cromwell Property Group).

    

   As previously reported to Council, a review had been conducted of the performance of SDA, in the context of the wider market performance and relative to its original objectives, given the expiry of the current SDA arrangements in 2018.

    

   It was recommended that the Council extend the current arrangements with SDA and Cromwell. However this was subject to them being revised and refreshed, to ensure they would actively support the delivery of the Council’s strategic goals in respect of economic development and job creation, and enable the Council to demonstrate that it had secured Best Value and was complying with best practice around its governance of SDA and the related arrangements.

    

   Attached to the report were a summary of SDA performance, a summary of assessment of future options, and a plan showing sites proposed to remain in SDA ownership.

    

   Decision

    

   The Council agreed:-

    

   1. to note the outcome of the strategic review of the performance of Stirling Development Agency Limited (“SDA”), and the options for future arrangements;

   2. to progress the fourth option identified in the strategic review, namely to undertake a review and refresh of the property development arrangements that were currently in place with SDA, and delegate full authority to the Director of Localities & Infrastructure, in consultation with the Director of Children, Communities & Enterprise, to take all actions required to finalise
      and implement the same, including the associated corporate governance arrangements and all related contractual and other documentation;

       

   3. that the appointment of Councillors Brisley and Laurie as Directors of SDA should continue until 30 June 2018, or such earlier date as was appropriate once the above-mentioned review and refresh had been suitably progressed;

       

   4. to delegate full authority to the Director of Localities & Infrastructure to take all actions required to effect the appointment of a suitable external candidate to replace the officer currently appointed to the Board of SDA;

       

   5. to undertake a review and refresh of the property management services that Cromwell European Management Services Limited currently provided to the Council, and delegated full authority to the Director of Localities & Infrastructure to take all actions required to finalise and implement the same; and

       

   6. that the Council should not progress the previously approved sale to SDA of the development site at Station Road, Callander, but that the Council would instead assess other potential options for the site.

 

(Reference: Report by Director of Localities & Infrastructure, dated 29 November 2017, submitted).

 

SC71 SPORT, PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND WELLBEING SERVICE: BUSINESS CASE PROGRESS UPDATE

 

On 28 September 2017, Stirling Council approved a Business Case that changed how Sport, Physical Activity, and Wellbeing Services were to be provided in the future.

 

Resultant structural change requirements had been communicated to Active Stirling Limited, and had been accepted on a prima facie basis. Negotiation would be required on a number of levels to finalise key elements.

 

The report also provided an update on how these changes would be implemented together with a high level timeline. Of key note was the intention for Stirling Council to be in place as ‘sole-member’ of Active Stirling Limited by end-February 2018.

 

In line with the Council’s current practice, the Community Planning & Regeneration Committee would be the primary means of elected member oversight of implementation activity to the reconstruction of Active Stirling Limited.

 

One area where full Council approval was being sought was around the shape of the new Active Stirling Limited Board of Directors.

 

Decision

 

The Council agreed:-

1. to note the progress of activities undertaken with Active Stirling Limited
   subsequent to the business case which was approved by full Council on 28 September 2017, together with the current high-level implementation timelines;

    

2. to note that the current service contract with Active Stirling Limited had been extended for a further period of 6 months, as approved by full Council on 28 September 2017;

    

3. (i) to note that, in line with the Council’s current practice, future elected member oversight relating to the implementation of the approved reconstitution of Active Stirling Limited and the business case approved by full Council on 28 September 2017 would be by means of reporting to the Community Planning & Regeneration Committee; and

    

   (ii) to delegate full authority to the Director of Children, Communities &
   Enterprise, in consultation with the Convener and Vice-Convener of the
   Community Planning & Regeneration Committee and Opposition Spokesperson, to take all urgent decisions and actions required to implement the said approved reconstitution of Active Stirling Limited and the said business case, subject to any such decisions and actions being reported to a future meeting of the Community Planning & Regeneration Committee, and subject also to the authority otherwise delegated to the said Director; and

    

4. to approve the Active Stirling Limited Board Structure proposal as detailed in 3.8 of the submitted report.

    

   (Reference: Report by Interim Director of Children, Communities and Enterprise, dated 7 November 2017, submitted).

    

   Councillor Benny left the meeting.

    

   SC72 THINKWHERE LIMITED UPDATE AND DIVESTMENT PROGRESS

    

   The Council took a decision in November 2014, along with Falkirk Council, to make a financial investment in thinkWhere Limited, totalling £1m over a three year period, with each council contributing £500,000 each. The phasing of the investment had been agreed at £475,000 in November 2014, £400,000 in April 2015 and £125,000 in April 2016. All of the investment had been made according to the agreed profile and
   no additional shareholder funding had been provided or requested. The investment had been in the form of equity shares in the company, and there were no other shareholders beyond the two councils. In making the investment in 2014, the Council had authorised officers to consider plans for its shareholding in the company as part of that review process, with a view to the Council exiting the company at some future point.

    

   The report, submitted by the Director of Localities & Infrastructure, set out the progress the company had made in delivering its transformation plans, and also gave an update on plans for attracting potential additional investment and consequently a possible exit from the company by the Council.

    

   Discussions had been held with officers of thinkWhere Limited and with Falkirk Council, as fellow shareholder who were aligned in the approach by Stirling Council.

   Decision background

    

   The Council agreed:-

    

   1. to note the progress made by thinkWhere Limited in delivering on its business transformation plan, as set out in the submitted report;

       

   2. to note that the Council was working with thinkWhere Limited to assist it in securing new external investment, which would also include a partial or full divestment of the Council’s shareholding in the company, possibly before the end of this financial year;

       

   3. to delegate full authority to the Director of Localities & Infrastructure, in consultation with the Chief Finance Officer and Chief Governance Officer, to continue working with thinkWhere Limited, to assist it in seeking additional external investors in the company, with the intention that the Council will divest itself of its shareholding in the company;

       

   4. to note that in securing Best Value the Council will consider all options available to it for the future provision of those GIS services currently provided by thinkWhere Limited, and may not extend the current contract with the company when it expires in 2018, with officers taking forward the same in accordance with the Contract Standing Orders; and

       

   5. to note that a report will be brought back to a future meeting of the Council for the approval of any proposals around future external (non-Council) investment in the company, and the divestment by the Council of its shareholding in the company.

 

(Reference: Report by Director of Localities & Infrastructure, dated 29 November 2017, submitted).

 

The Provost closed the meeting at 2.45pm

Appendix 1

 

QUESTION FROM COUNCILLOR ALASDAIR TOLLEMACHE FOR ANSWER BY THE HOUSING PORTFOLIO HOLDER AT THE FULL COUNCIL MEETING TO BE HELD ON THURSDAY 7 DECEMBER 2017.

 

QUESTION

 

What will the effect be upon the finances of the Housing budget with the roll out of Universal credit in the year 2017/2018?

 

Answer

 

It should be noted that the rollout of Universal Credit only began at the end of June, so the full effects are not known. I can say with certainty that the UK Tory Government’s universal credit policy, and the heartless way it is being implemented, is going to have a significant detrimental impact on the Housing Revenue Account, and council finances generally.

 

As in every other part of the country, there has been a noticeable impact on rent arrears. As of the 30 November 2017; 534 of the 612 tenants claiming Universal Credit are in arrears. The balance for these 612 accounts is £462,279, and the total amount of arrears attributed to Universal Credit is £129,598. That figure is likely to increase as more UC claims are made. It will be required to make an increased provision for rent arrears at the end of the
financial year for the likely non-collection of the outstanding debt.

 

As well as the direct costs, Universal Credit is also placing a considerable extra strain on resources across the Council. As well as dealing with arrears, staff are spending much more time assisting applicants with claims, making discretionary housing payments, increasing employability and digital skills, dealing with more homeless applications, as well as making referrals to food banks, money advice and other third sector agencies.

 

As a result of this additional demand an additional Income Maximisation officer has also been recruited on a temporary contract.

 

Staff are also reporting issues with the Universal Credit system that result in an increase in clients; their vulnerability and in the complexity of their needs.

 

We cannot put a price on the misery this policy is causing for people across the country.

 

Supplementary Question and Answer

 

Councillor Tollemache thanked the Housing Portfolio Holder for her response and asked if the new cross party working group being established to look at how to mitigate the effects of universal credit, would assess the effects on budgets across all services of the council.

 

The Housing Portfolio Holder welcomed this but did point out that this would take time as it was difficult to assess the different costs involved at this early stage, especially at this time of year.

QUESTION FROM COUNCILLOR ALISTAIR BERRILL FOR ANSWER BY CONVENER OF THE EDUCATION COMMITTEE AT THE FULL COUNCIL MEETING TO BE HELD ON THURSDAY 7 DECEMBER 2017.

 

QUESTION

 

At the meeting of the Education Committee on 17 August Councillor McGill confirmed that the new administration would continue to follow Priorities D and E of the previous Conservative-Labour Administration. Despite this promise, the proposed priorities of the new administration (including 90 sub priorities, or ‘considerations’ as they are bafflingly called) include no mention of prioritising the attainment of the lowest achieving 20%, or of improving school leavers’ positive destination results.

 

Would Councillor McGill comment on why she has dropped these priorities which are so vital for the future of Stirling’s young people?

 

Answer

 

Within Priority A, we have reaffirmed our commitment to supporting Stirling’s citizens from early years through to adulthood by providing quality education.

 

Within the considerations supporting this priority, we see early years and the transition from school to a positive post-school destination as key areas in supporting Stirling’s children and young people to reach their full potential.

 

Supplementary Question and Answer

 

Councillor Berrill thanked the Convener of the Education Committee for her response and asked that these specific priorities be included.

 

The Convener of the Education Committee responded that the good record will be continued with the commitment to support every child and young person to reach their full potential.

QUESTION FROM COUNCILLOR MARTIN EARL FOR ANSWER BY CONVENER OF ENVIRONMENT & HOUSING COMMITTEE AT THE FULL COUNCIL MEETING TO BE HELD ON THURSDAY 7 DECEMBER 2017.

 

QUESTION

 

Would the Convener confirm that a review of the current winter Roads maintenance policy will be completed in time to ensure recommendations are brought before Committee and any agreed changes can be implemented before the 2018/19 winter period?

 

Answer

 

As part of the PBB 3 Alternative Delivery Model work, the Roads & Land Service will look to undertake a review of the Winter Maintenance Policy in 2018/19 with a view to presenting its recommendations to committee in the Autumn 2018. The implementation of recommendations put forward by officers and those agreed by committee, will determine the timescale for their delivery and implementation.

 

Supplementary Question and Answer

 

Councillor Earl thanked the Convener of Environment & Housing Committee for his response and asked if the Convener could confirm that the review would include the criteria that dealt with the prioritisation of roads to be treated and the current policy that dealt with grit bin locations?

 

The Convener of Environment & Housing Committee confirmed that the review would cover the entire Winter Maintenance Policy.

QUESTION FROM COUNCILLOR ROSS OXBURGH FOR ANSWER BY CONVENER OF ENVIRONMENT & HOUSING COMMITTEE AT THE FULL COUNCIL MEETING TO BE HELD ON THURSDAY 7 DECEMBER 2017.

 

QUESTION

 

Will the convener advise what work is being carried out to improve the capacity for enforcement officers to issue fines for those irresponsible individuals that permit their dogs to foul in public areas and those that carry out fly-tipping?

 

Answer

 

Safer Communities Enforcement Officers are fully trained in handling and issuing of fixed penalty notices for both dog fouling and fly-tipping.

 

The team are proactive in their approach:

• identifying areas of concern

• working closely with Community Councils

• providing advice, support and information.

 

Where offenders are identified, enforcement action is taken. This includes the use of fixed penalty charges for both dog fouling and fly-tipping.

 

Supplementary Question and Answer

 

Councillor Oxburgh thanked the Convener of Environment & Housing Committee for his response. He asked whether the Convener would agree that officers should explore a more direct and proactive approach by exploring all the powers available to Local Authorities under the Regulation of Investigatory Powers (Scotland) Act 2000 as these two offences are extremely hard to prove and all possible measures should be utilised to show this council takes them seriously.

 

The Convener of Environment & Housing Committee responded that enforcement officers had to catch offenders in action first in order to identify them. However a report would be considered at Environment & Housing Committee to explore all options available for dealing with this issue.

 

QUESTION FROM COUNCILLOR ALASTAIR MAJURY FOR ANSWER BY THE CONVENER OF ENVIRONMENT & HOUSING COMMITTEE AT THE FULL COUNCIL MEETING TO BE HELD ON THURSDAY 7 DECEMBER 2017.

 

QUESTION

 

Will the Convener advise what steps are being taken to address the continuing serious problems with parking in Dunblane and Bridge of Allan that are impacting on businesses and residents alike?

 

Answer

 

Officers have been in regular dialogue with local communities about parking matters raised across the Council area and, indeed, some minor alterations have been made to parking arrangements in Dunblane. Enforcement staff have also been active at various times in both Dunblane and Bridge of Allan.

 

Officers will continue to work with the communities in Dunblane and Bridge of Allan to address concerns over parking provision and agree solutions with the community. Any amendments to the parking layout and Traffic Management Orders (which dictate the location of loading bays, parking restrictions and waiting times) would only be amended after due consultation and any concerns raised can be considered for alteration in the future. Where applicable relevant enforcement action will be taken should any driver be found to be in contravention of any current parking regulation.

 

The broader Parking Strategy covering the Stirling Council area will be reviewed in 2018 and can include a review of the new Decriminalised Parking Enforcement scheme. Full consultation with local Elected Members and community interests will be conducted as part of this.

 

Officers will continue to work with communities and business to address any ongoing issues.

 

Supplementary Question and Answer

 

Councillor Majury thanked the Convener of Environment & Housing Committee for his response. He said that as he was sure the Convener is aware, Transport Scotland will not allow the Traffic Regulation Orders needed to make the changes required to be registered within a year of the change to Council controlled on street parking and could the Convener confirm that these orders will be prepared ready to be registered immediately the initial year is complete in May 2018?

 

The Convener of Environment & Housing Committee advised that it was important to undertake consultation with communities to get a better understanding of the issues, and that the matter would be progressed as soon as possible.

QUESTION FROM COUNCILLOR JEREMY MCDONALD FOR ANSWER BY CONVENER OF PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEE AT THE FULL COUNCIL MEETING TO BE HELD ON THURSDAY 7 DECEMBER 2017.

 

QUESTION

 

Combatting violence against women was a specified priority for the Public Safety Committee during the previous administration. Will the convener confirm that this will remain the case?

 

Answer

 

Yes. As per the decision notice of 24 October 2017, gender based violence is now a standing item on the Public Safety Committee agenda, scheduled to be reported every second meeting.

 

An update on the Gender Based Violence Partnership was presented to Committee in October 2017; the next report is scheduled to be presented in March 2018.

QUESTION FROM COUNCILLOR NEIL BENNY FOR ANSWER BY LEADER OF THE COUNCIL AT THE FULL COUNCIL MEETING TO BE HELD ON THURSDAY 7 DECEMBER 2017.

 

QUESTION

 

What is the timescale for community consultation for the forthcoming Council budget?

 

Answer

 

It is planned to commence Community Consultation week beginning 15 January 2018.

 

The consultation process will however begin with staff briefings and trade union consultations week beginning 8 January 2017.

 

Supplementary Question and Answer

 

Councillor Benny thanked the Leader for his response and asked how communities were expected to digest information and consider the impact with such a short timescale?

 

The Leader responded that options were becoming more difficult to identify and there would be a reduced number of acceptable options to consider.

 

In response to a request for clarification, the Chief Officer – Governance agreed to look at Councillor Benny’s understanding that Council had previously agreed a PBB Policy which included the commitment to publish management recommendations for consultation with the communities.

APPENDIX 2

 

MEETING of the STIRLING COUNCIL to be held in the COUNCIL CHAMBERS, OLD VIEWFORTH, STIRLING on THURSDAY 7 DECEMBER 2017

 

Motion in Terms of Standing Order 16 Information/Advice from Officers

1. Advice Services

    

   Advice Services are indeed provided by a range of organisations, many of which are in the third sector. Advice needs are varied and can be complex. Often service users of particular organisation- including for example Shelter, Action in Mind, will go to that organisation for specific advice, because they already have an established longer term relationship.

   People will also look for advice at particular times in their lives, for example redundancy, marriage breakdown- and will use advice providers – for example the Citizen’s Advice Bureau or the Council managed team, as best fits their needs.

   Therefore a blend of approaches is required to meet an ever increasing need.

   There is no doubt that advice services provided by the third sector are essential to helping people.

   There is also no doubt that advice services managed by Council are independent: Council Advice Services are accredited to deliver up to type 3 advice by the Scottish National Standards for Information and Advice Providers. This ensures both the quality of delivery and the independent nature of the advice provided.

   There is clearly evidenced financial gain and a much valued service provided to service users from the Council managed team. Statistically, for quarter 2 2017/18, the Advice Stirling team generated 224 referrals and opened 365 cases, including 28 new type 3 cases. £303,566 financial gains were secured for clients, and client satisfaction was rated at 100%.

   It should be noted at this point that the team of professionals managed by the Council are funded via partnership arrangements with different organisations- including those in third sector, namely Shelter and MacMillan Cancer Care. In quarter two 2017/18 the MacMillan Money Matters team dealt with 263 referrals and opened 597 cases.

   £965,771 financial gains were generated, and again 100% client satisfaction was reported.

   Given the evidenced results of the Council managed team, and the acceptance that the range of services provided by the third sector, and indeed by other sectors, is valued and critical to offering choice and added value to clients:- it is not clear what benefit is to be gained from a review.

   Members are reminded that a similar exercise was undertaken in 2013/14 which resulted in uncertainty for staff. After initial findings, the resultant Partnership approach did not function due to external challenge and potential issues around procurement compliance.

   It is further suggested that the focus at this time, particularly in the context of Universal Credit, should be on continuing to deliver high quality, timely and beneficial advice to clients, regardless of the service deliverer; rather than on a review which would undoubtedly impact on capacity, staff morale and ultimately on the standard of advice given to clients.

2. Stirling University

 

Stirling Council recognise the existing impact and future opportunities that come from having such a high performing University here in Stirling.

 

The Council works closely with the University on a wide number of fronts but particularly on seeking to deliver sustainable economic growth for the Stirling area. We are working hand in hand to strengthen and develop key economic sectors and make sure that the graduates from the University, well recognised for their quality, have the opportunity to fulfil their ambitions and potential here in Stirling.

 

We are working increasingly closely with the University to support the entrepreneurial eco-system here in Stirling, making sure students have the support to create and grow new businesses and to drive commercialisation of the world class research taking place.

 

The University have been a key partner in the development of Stirling’s City Region Deal and we continue to work closely with them to investigate the opportunities presented through this work.

 

Going forward we will continue to work closely with the University to drive economic growth and to increase the vibrancy of Stirling City in particular and are committed to continuing to foster a positive, long-term and strategic partnership for the benefit of all in across Stirling.

 

University of Stirling, Key statistics

 

• 14,000+ students

• 10,300+ undergraduate students

• 3,800+ postgraduate students

• 1,500+ staff

• 120+ nationalities are represented on campus

• 20% of students are from overseas

   

  Rankings

   

  The Complete University Guide 2018

• Accounting and Finance - Top 5 in Scotland, top 20 in the UK

• Communication and Media Studies - 2nd in Scotland, top 15 in the UK

• Economics - Top 5 in Scotland, top 20 in the UK

• Education - Top 5 in Scotland, top 10 in the UK

• English - 2nd in Scotland, top 20 in the UK

• Marketing - 2nd in Scotland, top 25 in the UK

• Social Policy - Top 5 in Scotland, top 10 in the UK

• Sociology - Top 5 in Scotland, top 25 in the UK

• Theology and Religious Studies - Top 5 in Scotland, top 15 in the UK

  The Guardian University Guide 2018

• Criminology - 1st in Scotland, top 5 in the UK

• Education - 1st in Scotland, top 15 in the UK

• Media and Film Studies – 1st in Scotland, top 10 in the UK

• Sociology – 2nd in Scotland, top 15 in the UK

• Social Policy - 1st in Scotland, top 10 in the UK

   

  The International Student Barometer (ISB) 2016

• 3rd in Scotland for overall satisfaction

• 1st in Scotland for welcoming international students (scored top under "Arrival")

• 1st in Scotland and the UK for campus environment

• 1st in Scotland for good teachers, quality lecturers and performance feedback

• 1st in Scotland and 2nd in the UK for sports facilities

   

  Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2018

• Accounting and Finance - Top 5 in Scotland, top 15 in the UK

• Criminology – 1st in Scotland, top 10 in the UK

• Communications and Media – 1st in Scotland, top 10 in the UK

• Education - Top 5 in Scotland, top 10 in the UK

• French - 3rd in Scotland, top 20 in the UK

• Iberian Languages - 3rd in Scotland, top 20 in the UK

• Sports Science – 3rd in Scotland, top 15 in the UK

• Social Policy – 3rd in Scotland, top 15 in the UK

• Social Work – 3rd in Scotland, top 10 in the UK

• Theology and Religion – 3rd in Scotland, top 15 in the UK

   

  The National Student Survey 2017

• Social Work - Joint 1st in the UK

• Iberian Studies - 1st in Scotland, joint 4th in the UK

• Computer Science - 2nd in Scotland

• Journalism - 2nd in Scotland

• Media Studies - 2nd in Scotland

• Philosophy - 2nd in Scotland

• Social Policy - 2nd in Scotland

• Accounting - 3rd in Scotland

• Human Resource Management - 3rd in Scotland

• Marketing - 3rd in Scotland

• Physical Geography and Environmental Science - 3rd in Scotland

• Politics - 3rd in Scotland

• Zoology - 3rd in Scotland

   

  QS World University Rankings 2017

• Nursing – Top 15 in the UK

• Agriculture and Forestry – Top 15 in the UK

• Philosophy – Top 20 in the UK

• Sport – Top 20 in the UK

• Media and Communications – Top 25 in the UK, Top 150 in the world

   

  Times Higher Education Student Experience Survey 2017

• Good environment on campus - 1st in Scotland, joint 2nd in the UK

• Good sports facilities - 1st in Scotland, joint 4th in the UK

• Good library - 1st in Scotland, top 15 in the UK

• Good extra-curricular activities/societies - 2nd in Scotland, top 10 in the UK

• Helpful/interested staff - 2nd in Scotland, top 10 in the UK

• High-quality staff/lectures - 2nd in Scotland, top 10 in the UK

• University facilities – 3rd in Scotland, top 25 in the UK
  Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2014

  In REF2014, Stirling was placed 6th in Scotland and 45th in the UK. Highlights include:

• Almost three quarters of research activity rated either world-leading or
  internationally excellent

• 4th in the UK for Agriculture, Veterinary and Food Science

• 1st in Scotland and 12th in the UK for Health Sciences

• 3rd in Scotland and 18th in the UK for Psychology

• In the top 25 UK institutions for Business and Management

• 17th in the UK for Social Work and Social Policy

• 100% of Psychology Impact case studies classed as world-leading

   

  Survey highlights

   

  The University of Stirling regularly performs well in a wide array of global higher education surveys. Here are some of the accolades we’ve received:

• More than 96% of our undergraduate leavers are in employment or further study within six months of graduating (Destinations of Leavers in Higher Education survey 2015/16)

• 98% of our postgraduate leavers are in employment or further study within six months of graduating (Destinations of Leavers in Higher Education survey 2015/16)

• 2nd in the UK and 47th in the world in the QS Top 50 Under 50, which highlights the world’s top universities under 50 years old

• 2nd in the UK and 46th in the world in the The Young University Rankings, which ranks the world’s best 200 universities under 50 years old

• The University of Stirling ranked 3rd in Scotland and 32nd in the UK in the Times Higher Education Student Experience Survey 2017 (THE Student Experience Survey 2017)

• Queen’s Anniversary Prize for Higher and Further Education for ground-breaking social marketing research (The Royal Anniversary Trust 2013)

• The University of Stirling has been named one of the UK's top 10 universities for having a great sports scene (Which? University Student Survey 2017)

• The University of Stirling's campus has been named one of the UK's top six “pretty campuses to chill out on” (TARGETcareers 2016)

• The University of Stirling has been named one of world's top 350 universities (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2018)

• The University of Stirling was named one of the 21 most beautiful campuses in Britain (Business Insider UK 2016)

• 1st in Scotland and the UK for campus environment (International Student Barometer 2016)

• 1st in Scotland for good teachers, quality lecturers and performance
  feedback (International Student Barometer 2016)

• 1st in Scotland and 2nd in the UK for sports facilities (International Student Barometer 2016)

• Best Student Living Experience in the UK (City of Stirling: National Student Housing Survey)

• 86% student satisfaction (National Student Survey 2017)

• Top 50 in Europe for Education (QS Top Universities 2015)

   

  QS World University Rankings 2018

  As part of the QS World University Rankings 2018, the University of Stirling has been awarded 5 stars in the following areas:

• Teaching

• Employability

• Internationalisation

• Facilities

• Inclusiveness

 

 

Committee/Panel Memberships

Appendix 3

 

C = Convener
VC = Vice Convener