Issue - meetings

(a)       That the mid-year Workforce Information Report for 2022/23 be noted; and

(b)       That further detail be shared on the increase in cumulative agency spend over the past three years.

The Business Information and Compliance Adviser presented a mid-year update report on workforce statistics and analysis for 2022/23 including headcount, employee turnover and attendance.

An overview of key areas acknowledged national workforce pressures as seen across portfolios and work being done to address challenges in recruitment and retention within Social Services.  The main reason for absences was reported as mental health and a reminder was given of the range of support available to employees.  An update on agency worker spend reflected increasing demand for specialist roles and collaborative work to develop a unified approach to workforce recruitment and retention.

In response to questions from Councillor Chris Dolphin, the Senior Manager (Safeguarding and Commissioning) provided information on the Council’s links with ADSS Cymru and arrangements within Social Services to prioritise risk-based work particularly given the significant national increase in the volume of child protection investigations.

On a question from the Chairman, the Business Information and Compliance Adviser advised that cumulative agency spend was increasing year on year for the reasons set out in the report and was being closely monitored.  He agreed to provide further detail on trend analysis dating back to 2019.

On that basis, the recommendation was moved and seconded by Councillors Bernie Attridge and Bill Crease.

RESOLVED:

(a)       That the mid-year Workforce Information Report for 2022/23 be noted; and

(b)       That further detail be shared on the increase in cumulative agency spend over the past three years.