Issue - meetings

(A report by James Gilbert, Assistant Director – Corporate)

The Leader of the Council, Councillor Anne Dorrian, presented a report by the Assistant Director – Corporate which provided an overview of progress made against the Partnership’s alignment and delivery plan, covering the period since the previous update in September 2024.

The report outlined that all activities scheduled for 2024/25 had either been completed, removed as no longer relevant, or carried forward into the 2025/26 plan. Updates were also provided on external funding secured, financial efficiencies achieved, and the development of the performance framework for the forthcoming year.

Further detail was included on the work of the Partnership’s four thematic priority boards: Economic Development, Health, Safer Communities, and Environment. Each board had continued to deliver against its objectives, with progress monitored and reported by the relevant Assistant Directors.

Members discussed the report and commented as follows:

·         Concerns were raised regarding the effectiveness of customer contact arrangements, particularly in relation to telephone response times. It was noted that some callers had experienced extended waiting periods and, in certain instances, calls had been disconnected before being answered. These issues were highlighted as areas requiring further attention to ensure a satisfactory level of service to residents.

·         Reference was also made to the results of the Partnership’s workforce survey, which indicated that a proportion of staff did not feel well-informed about the Partnership’s activities or decision-making processes. It was suggested that further engagement and communication with staff would be beneficial in strengthening internal awareness and confidence in the Partnership’s direction.

The report was presented for noting and was duly received by Council without amendment.

Resolved:

That the report be noted.