Issue - meetings

The Chairman introduced the report and advised that, since publication of the meeting papers, the Administration Group had revisited the proposal and as a result of those discussions, he tabled an alternative proposal to that contained within the report. He proposed, firstly, approval of the implementation of a two-year Squaddie Box Pilot scheme in West Lindsey, with the location to be determined in consultation with the Armed Forces Member Champion; secondly, that Officers be requested to seek out possible options for match-funding or grants opportunities to assist with the cost; and finally, that it be recommended to the Thriving Council Committee to approve the use of reserves to fund the project.

Visiting Member Councillor Carless, in her capacity as the Council's Armed Forces Member Champion, was then invited to address the Committee. Reference was made to the Council's commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant and the potential benefits of the Squaddie Box scheme in providing a secure proxy address and support network for veterans and vulnerable individuals. Councillor Carless highlighted that West Lindsey had one of the highest veteran populations in Lincolnshire and suggested that implementation of the scheme would further strengthen the Council's commitment to the Armed Forces community. Reference was also made to a recent veteran support case brought to her attention by Councillor Bridgwood, where difficulties accessing post had created additional challenges for the individual concerned.

The Chairman thanked Councillor Carless for her words, sought a seconder for the tabled proposal, and opened the floor to questions and debate.

During the course of discussions, the quality of homelessness services operating within West Lindsey and Lincolnshire was recognised, and clarification was sought regarding the evidence of demand for the scheme, with Members noting the conclusions set out in the officer report were contrary to the tabled proposal.

In response, the Homes and Health Team Manager advised that officers had presented Members with the evidence available to the Council, however, demand for the service was difficult to quantify due to the absence of an existing scheme locally. It was further explained that the relationship between homelessness prevention and the provision of a secure postal address was difficult to evidence, although it was acknowledged that unmet need may exist which was not currently visible through existing service provision.

The Chairman reiterated that the proposal was not intended to replace or undermine existing homelessness support services and noted that the funding proposed would be separate from existing service budgets. He further explained that the proposed two-year pilot would provide an opportunity to gather evidence before any longer-term commitment was considered.

The Vice-Chairman expressed support for the proposal and, drawing on his experience of working with veterans, advised that demand for such support services was often difficult to identify as veterans could be reluctant to engage with statutory services. It was considered that the pilot scheme would assist in understanding local need and provide an additional source of support for veterans experiencing difficulties.

With no further comments, having been proposed, seconded,  ...  view the full minutes text for item 4