Agenda item

To consider the following Part I Decisions of the Cabinet taken on 11 December 2024

 

3.         Minutes of the Overview and Scrutiny and Select Committees

4.         Corporate Performance – Quarter 2 2024/25

5.         Council Tax Base 2025/26

6.         Housing Revenue Account (HRA) – Draft Budget and Rent Setting 2025/26

7.         Housing Inspection Outcome

8.         Repairs and Maintenance Policy – Approval

9.         Homelessness and Rough Sleeper Strategy

 

Notice of Decisions to follow

The Committee considered the following Part I Decisions of the Cabinet taken on 11 December 2024:

3. Minutes of the Overview and Scrutiny and Select Committees

 

The Committee noted the minutes of the Overview and Scrutiny and Select Committees.

 

4.         Corporate Performance – Quarter 2 2024/25

 

The Strategic Director (RP) advised the Committee that the Cabinet had received a presentation from the Chief Executive outlining corporate performance for Quarter 2. The update covered the performance suite and progress against the Council's corporate plan. Key areas of focus included improving tenant satisfaction, which will be supported by actions following the recent housing inspection.

 

The Cabinet discussed:

·         Ensuring accessibility of parks, play areas, and open spaces for all groups, particularly adults with learning disabilities.

·         Reviewing the framing of automated debt messaging to align with the Council's values.

·         Positive feedback on the Ellis Avenue development, noting its alignment with the surrounding area.

·         Acknowledgement of extensive resident consultation and engagement activity, which was well-received.

 

The Committee heard that the Cabinet approved all four recommendations outlined in the report.

 

A query was raised regarding resident feedback on developments. It was clarified that responses were typically mixed but informed design decisions, particularly around the Oval redevelopment, with a planning application anticipated for 2025/26.

 

At this juncture, the Chair noted difficulties with accessing visual elements of Cabinet presentations via YouTube. It was suggested that the presentation materials, already available on the Council's website, be made more accessible to address this issue.

 

The Committee noted the Corporate Performance – Quarter 2 2024/25.

 

 

5.         Council Tax Base 2025/26

 

The Assistant Director (Finance) advised the Committee that the Cabinet considered a report on the council tax base for 2025/26, which was calculated at £28,571.8 Band D equivalent properties. This figure included an allowance for a 98% collection rate. The Cabinet approved the recommendations in the report and the council tax base would be included in the draft 2025/26 report, which was scheduled to be presented to Cabinet in January 2025.

 

The Committee noted the Council Tax Base 2025/26.

 

 

6.         Housing Revenue Account (HRA) – Draft Budget and Rent Setting 2025/26

 

The Chief Financial Officer advised the Committee that the draft HRA budget for 2025/26 reflected pressures highlighted in the HRA Medium-Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) presented in November 2024.

 

The Committee heard that the average rent increase for 2025/26 was set at 2.7%, significantly lower than the 7.7% increase in 2024/25, due to a lower Consumer Price Index figure (1.7% in September 2024).

 

The Chief Financial Officer added that further budget pressures included potential increases in national insurance (pending confirmation from the finance settlement) and rising costs related to responsive repairs and disrepair demands. These would be incorporated into the final budget, which would be presented to the January 2025 Cabinet and Overview and Scrutiny Committee.

 

A question was raised regarding improved rent collection rates. It was noted that rent collection had increased but remained a challenge, particularly as more tenants transitioned from housing benefit to Universal Credit.

 

Approximately 90% of tenants in arrears were on Universal Credit, presenting challenges as Universal Credit payments were made directly to tenants, unlike housing benefit, which was passported to the HRA.

 

The Chief Financial Officer informed the Committee that the Council was actively managing this issue through an income recovery plan, focusing on tenant support, repayment plans, and avoiding repossession proceedings where possible.

 

 

7.         Housing Inspection Outcome

 

The Strategic Director (RP) advised the Committee that the Council underwent a housing inspection between July and October 2024, with the regulatory judgement issued on 27th November 2024. The Council received a C2 grading. The Cabinet was informed of the outcome and the need to meet with the regulator in January 2025 to agree on a Provider Improvement Plan (PIP).

 

Providing context for the grading, the Strategic Director (RP) advised that Stevenage was one of nine stock-owning authorities to receive a C2 rating, with the majority of other authorities graded at C3 or C4. Only one authority, Barnsley, achieved a C1 rating. They added that the Council was on track to achieve a higher grading in future, with improvement plans already in progress.

 

The Committee heard that a Provider Improvement Plan would address identified weaknesses, focusing on tenant engagement, property maintenance, and compliance. New strategies for tenant participation were approved in July 2024, with updated scrutiny and engagement frameworks now in place. Complaint-handling processes had been strengthened with fortnightly clinics to identify and address key drivers, such as roofing backlogs, and to monitor cases reviewed by the Housing Ombudsman or Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman.

 

The Committee were informed that rising labour and material costs, alongside increased demand for specialist works such as damp and mould remediation, were contributing to financial pressures within the Housing Revenue Account (HRA).

 

The Cabinet had approved all five recommendations in the report.

 

 

8.         Repairs and Maintenance Policy – Approval

 

The Assistant Director (Building Safety and Housing Property Services) informed the Committee that the report presented to Cabinet sought approval for the final version of the Responsive Repairs and Maintenance Policy, following a consultation process involving tenants and leaseholders.

 

The Committee heard that a pre-consultation draft of the policy had been reviewed by Cabinet earlier in the year. The consultation received 343 responses, and feedback was incorporated as far as possible into the final version of the policy.

 

Changes to the policy, reflecting consultation feedback, were outlined in the report. Those amendments aimed to address the concerns and suggestions raised during the consultation process.

 

Cabinet approved the final policy, along with the recommendations set out in the report.

 

A Member commented on clarity of the consultation process, specifically whether it included feedback on the proposed responsibilities outlined in the policy or if it was limited to repair satisfaction surveys. In response, it was clarified that a broad consultation was conducted due to the absence of new tenant engagement mechanisms. This included sending out letters and quick guides to all tenants and leaseholders, holding in-person sessions (albeit with limited attendance), and conducting an online survey.

 

The consultation garnered 343 responses, with general agreement that responsibilities were clearly outlined. Some feedback included objections to charges for missed appointments and the clarification of specific responsibilities, such as drain blockages and infestations. Suggestions were made to ensure future reports transparently documented consultation outcomes, as tenants expected to see evidence of their participation.

 

Members raised queries about how the new policy, set to take effect on 1st January, would be communicated. Concerns included whether it would be made available in advance and whether the council would cater to tenants without digital access. It was confirmed that while the policy formalised existing practices, there were plans to publicise it via the council’s website and a hard-copy newsletter. Efforts will be made to communicate notable changes, such as the new fencing policy, to tenants.

 

Members highlighted the need for a simplified version of the policy to increase accessibility for tenants, particularly those with complex needs, such as learning difficulties, illiteracy, or other vulnerabilities. Suggestions included creating a brief summary of responsibilities in a printed format and expanding the use of SMS notifications for appointment reminders, drawing on examples from NHS practices.

 

Members emphasised the importance of identifying and supporting vulnerable tenants, including those with physical disabilities, mental health issues, or financial difficulties. It was noted that while the Council held significant tenant data, there was room for improvement in using this information to tailor services and provide reasonable adjustments. Testimonies were shared, highlighting positive outcomes when housing officers were made aware of tenant vulnerabilities, underlining the need for tenants to feel encouraged to disclose their support requirements.

 

Members concluded the discussion reiterating the importance of effective tenant engagement and clear communication. The discussion underscored the need to balance cost considerations with accessibility and transparency while ensuring tenants are informed of their responsibilities and council services.

 

The Committee noted the decision of the Cabinet to approve the Repairs and Maintenance Policy.

 

 

9.         Homelessness and Rough Sleeper Strategy

 

The Strategic Director (RP) advised the Committee that the Council was required to produce a homelessness and rough sleeper strategy every five years. The new strategy covered the period 2025–2030 and included an associated action plan, which would be reviewed annually to ensure it remained current and effective. The strategy and action plan must be approved and published on the Council's website by the end of December 2024, as agreed with the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

 

The Committee heard that consultation for the strategy included input from the Community Select Committee. Based on feedback, improvements to the accessibility and clarity of information on the Council's website were implemented. A new online tool now tailored advice based on users' needs, offering general guidance before direct engagement with services.

 

The Strategic Director (RP) informed the Committee that the Council engaged with rough sleepers through its dedicated Rough Sleeper Team, often in collaboration with other agencies such as the police, adult social care, and voluntary organisations. For rough sleepers from outside the area, the Council coordinated with their originating local authority to ensure they received appropriate support. Challenges included complex needs such as mental health issues, which could hinder engagement and uptake of housing offers.

 

The five recommendations were approved by Cabinet, including delegating authority to the Strategic Director (RP), in consultation with the Portfolio Holder (Housing), to make final amendments before publication.

 

Members commended the Rough Sleeper Team for their hard work and dedication in addressing homelessness and complex cases within Stevenage.

Acknowledgement was made of the difficulty in resolving entrenched rough sleeping cases, particularly for individuals with mental health challenges.

 

The Committee noted the Homelessness and Rough Sleeper Strategy.

 

It was RESOLVED that the Part I Decisions of the Cabinet be noted.