Issue - meetings

(a)          That the requirements of the Socio-economic Duty be noted; and

(b)       That the Committee is assured of the Council’s preparedness in meeting the new Duty.

The Strategic Policy Advisor introduced a report on the Council’s preparations for the commencement of the socio-economic duty.  This was a statutory requirement upon relevant public bodies to have due regard to the need to reduce inequalities of outcomes resulting from socio-economic disadvantage.

The Strategic Policy Advisor and Benefits Manager gave a joint presentation covering the following:

·         What is the Socio-economic Duty and what does it do?

·         Key terms

·         Inequalities of outcomes

·         Examples of poverty

·         Demonstrating due regard - audit trail

·         Meeting the duty - what we are doing

·         Better outcomes

·         Case study

The Benefits Manager welcomed the legislation in helping to support work on tackling poverty which was one of the priority areas in the Council Plan.  The presentation highlighted the additional obligations required across the public sector in discharging the Duty which did not necessarily incur extra costs.  Early consideration and consultation was key in ensuring that voices were heard and evidence gathered.

The Chairman thanked officers for the presentation and in response to a question was provided with information on the consultation process to collate and understand data to inform service delivery.

In moving the recommendations, Councillor Patrick Heesom expressed his concern that the Duty had not been prioritised by the Welsh Government for earlier implementation.  His view was shared by Councillor Ron Davies who seconded the recommendations.

RESOLVED:

(a)          That the requirements of the Socio-economic Duty be noted; and

(b)       That the Committee is assured of the Council’s preparedness in meeting the new Duty.