Issue - meetings

Members considered a report which provided a review on the work implemented to-date in connection with the Annual Governance Statement 2022/23 Action Plan.

Those areas identified for improvement were highlighted to Members along with corresponding action Plan.  Further verbal updates in respect of each was also provided to Committee.   Members noted that the delay in the financial settlement left some uncertainty, but Members of the Corporate Policy and Resources Committee would be meeting in early 2024 to consider implications.

Debate ensued, and in responding to questions about succession planning and training the Director of Corporate Services explained there was an established corporate training project with a maintained budget.  

Public sector recruitment continued to be challenging. Local Authorities could not compete with pay rates often offered in the private sector.  This remained a risk on the corporate risk register, Officers continued to mitigate where possible, looking at flexible working benefits, using automation of process where necessary and appropriate, and aiming to ensure staff were as multi skilled as possible.

In response to a query about the impact on the recently announced mayoral county combined authority, the Director clarified that discussions were ongoing, with a consultation about to commence, subject to the constituent councils’ agreement. Members were reminded an item on this matter would be reported to Full Council, where Members would be able to submit consultation responses.

On that basis it was RESOLVED that the ongoing work to implement the Annual Governance Statement Action Plan arising from the production of the 2022/23 Annual Governance Statement be NOTED.