Issue - meetings

(a)       That the Forward Work Programme as amended, be approved; and

(b)       That the Facilitator, in consultation with the Chairman of the Committee, be authorised to vary the Forward Work Programme between meetings, as the need arises.

In presenting the current Forward Work Programme for consideration, the Facilitator referred to a suggestion at the previous meeting for a workshop on post-16 provision which had been scheduled immediately after the September meeting.  Councillor Roberts asked that representatives of Deeside Sixth be invited to attend the workshop.

Councillor Kevin Hughes spoke about the importance of tackling period poverty due to concerns about the number of young girls unable to afford sanitary products.  He said it was crucial that schools provide support by keeping a free of charge supply and appointing a named female point of contact.  He went on to refer to the availability of Welsh Government funding to address the problem and improve facilities in schools.

The Interim Chief Officer acknowledged this national issue which was also affecting school attendance figures, and explained that a steering group had been set up to review and formalise arrangements at secondary schools in Flintshire, all of which had supplies of products available.  A range of activities were being implemented including the development of a corporate reporting mechanism (in conjunction with the Youth Participation team) to ensure that support was correctly targeted and the Youth Council was engaged in helping to promote the resources and support available.  In order to maximise grant funding, options were being explored with product manufacturers and neighbouring Authorities to achieve value for money.

Councillor Cunningham thanked Councillor Hughes for raising the topic and the Council for putting actions into place.

Following a query by David Hÿtch, the Facilitator advised that the information reports on incidents of arson, vandalism and burglaries in Flintshire schools were being pursued with the relevant officer.

Councillor Roberts suggested that the next annual progress update from GwE be scheduled as a standalone item at a special meeting.

RESOLVED:

(a)       That the Forward Work Programme as amended, be approved; and

(b)       That the Facilitator, in consultation with the Chairman of the Committee, be authorised to vary the Forward Work Programme between meetings, as the need arises.