Issue - meetings

To receive the Leader’s report on the work of the Executive since the Council meeting held on 24 November 2021.

Council is asked to resolve a recommendation in respect of:

·       Recommendations of the Members’ Equalities Working Group

The Leader of the Council, Councillor Bettison OBE, presented his report on the work of the Executive since that reported at the Council meeting on 24 November 2021. The Executive had met once on 14 December 2021.

The Leader highlighted the following matters that had been considered:

·       Draft Revenue Budget & Capital Programme 2022/23 proposals were published for six week consultation including Overview & Scrutiny Commission. Detailed consideration at quorate “in person” Council meeting on 23 February. £140K had been added to the Time Square community hub budget for hybrid meeting technology.

·       The Equalities Working Group recommendations were supported including the Mayor’s Charter which was being considered as a separate motion on the agenda.

·       An updated Housing Assistance Policy was agreed with a focus on enabling independent living by supporting at risk people.

·       Domestic Abuse Safe Accommodation Strategy 2021 – 2024 agreed as a legal requirement under Domestic Abuse Act 2021. There were four broad priority areas:

o   Raise awareness and information about available options

o   Improve access pathways to safe accommodation

o   Effective multi-agency working and specialist support

o   Improved support and providing an effective voice for survivors

·       A strategic procurement plan was agreed for the Sensory Needs Service to support people with visual and/or hearing loss.

·       All seven Overview & Scrutiny review of Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) recommendations were agreed. The review looked to maximise effective use of CIL and increase close coordination between Bracknell Forest Council and Town & Parish Councils.

The report contained recommendations that the Council was asked to resolve in respect of the following matter:

·       Equalities Working Group recommendations

On the proposition of Councillor Bettison OBE, Leader of the Council, seconded by Councillor Kirke it was

RECOMMENDED TO THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE that the recommendations of the Members’ Equalities Working Group at Annex A of the report be adopted.