Agendas, reports and minutes

Minutes of Meeting of the Care, Learning and Housing Committee held in the Council Chamber, Council Headquarters, Glenurquhart Road, Inverness on Thursday 18 October 2018 at 10.05 am.

Present:

Mr A Baxter (Chair), Mr B Boyd, Mrs I Campbell, Mrs M Cockburn, Ms K Currie, Mr J Finlayson (Vice Chair), Mr R Gale (substitute), Mr A Graham, Mr T Heggie, Mr A Jarvie, Mr R Laird (substitute), Mr D Mackay, Mr W MacKay (video conferencing)(am only), Mr G MacKenzie, Mrs I MacKenzie, Mr D Macpherson, Mr R MacWilliam, Mrs B McAllister, Ms L Munro, Mrs P Munro, Mrs F Robertson, Mr G Ross, Ms N Sinclair, Mr C Smith
    
Religious Representatives:

Ms S Lamont    
    
Youth Convener:

Ms E Leitch    
    
Non-Members also present:

Mrs M C Davidson, Mr K Gowans, Mr B Thompson, Mr A Sinclair
    
In attendance:

Mr B Alexander, Director of Care and Learning
Mr W Gilfillan, Director of Community Services
Mrs B Cairns, Head of Additional Support Services, Care and Learning Service
Ms S Campbell, Head of Children’s Services, Care and Learning Service
Ms A Clark, Acting Head of Policy, Chief Executive’s Office
Mr D Goldie, Head of Housing and Building Maintenance, Community Services
Mr B Porter, Head of Resources, Care and Learning Service
Mr J Steven, Head of Education, Care and Learning Service
Ms S Harrington, Senior Manager – Early Years
Mr I Kyle, Children’s Planning Manager
Ms M Macdonald, Preventing Poverty Manager, Care and Learning Service
Ms K Ralston, Area Care and Learning Manager – South, Care and Learning Service
Mr M Mitchell, Finance Manager, Finance Service
Ms R Mackinnon, Principal Policy Officer (Equality), Chief Executive’s Office
Ms C Mechan, BSL/English Interpreter, Chief Executive’s Office
Ms J Douglas, Care and Learning Alliance (Third Sector)
Ms G Newman, Highland Children’s Forum (Third Sector)
Ms S Blyth, Highland Parent Council Partnership
Ms G Hainey, Tenant Representative
Ms A Krueger, Tenant Representative
Mr A Tubb, Tenant Representative
Miss J Maclennan, Principal Administrator, Chief Executive’s Office
Miss M Murray, Committee Administrator, Chief Executive’s Office
Ms F MacBain, Committee Administrator, Chief Executive’s Office

Also in attendance:

Mr D Wilby, Head of Performance, High Life Highland

An asterisk in the margin denotes a recommendation to the Council.  All decisions with no marking in the margin are delegated to the Committee.

Mr A Baxter in the Chair

Preliminaries

The Chair welcomed Ms E Leitch, who had replaced Ms M Roberts as the Youth Convener, and the three new tenant representatives, Ms G Hainey, Ms A Krueger and Mr A Tubb, to the meeting.  He also welcomed Ms K Currie to her first meeting as spokesperson for the Opposition and commended Ms K Stephen, former Vice Chair, for her contribution to the Committee and public life in Highland.

He went on to thank Mr B Alexander, Director of Care and Learning, for his contribution to the Service, this being his last Committee meeting prior to retirement.  The Leader of the Council and other Members joined the Chair in paying tribute to his outstanding work, particular reference being made to his role in the creation of the Northern Alliance, Getting It Right For Every Child, the expansion of Early Learning and Childcare in Highland, and promoting the understanding of the impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences.  His legacy was that children were safer and had more opportunities, and it was important to ensure it continued.  The Chair then presented him with a gift on behalf of Elected Members.  Mr Alexander responded in suitable terms.

Business

1.    Apologies for Absence
Leisgeulan

Apologies for absence were intimated on behalf of Mr A Christie, Ms E Knox, Ms M Newdick and The Very Rev S Murray.

2.    Declarations of Interest
Foillseachaidhean Com-pàirt

The Committee NOTED the following declarations of interest:-

Item 6 – Ms L Munro (financial)
Item 10 – Mr A Jarvie, Mr G Ross, Mr D Macpherson, Ms L Munro (all non-financial) and Mr K Gowans (financial)
Item 15 - Mr A Graham (financial)
Item 16 – Mr A Graham (financial)
Item 17 – Ms N Sinclair (non-financial)

3.    Outstanding Achievements
Coileanaidhean Air Leth

There had been tabled a list of outstanding achievements by people and groups.

In addition, the Director of Care and Learning highlighted that an Inverness mother, Jenny Graham, would be cycling  to Berlin in the afternoon having undertaken an unsupported cycle around the world, covering 18,000 miles across 15 countries in 124 days.  This would be a new world record and he invited the Committee to commend  her incredible achievement.

In relation to the launch of Fàs Foghlaim (Educational Growth), an innovative social media Gaelic promotional tool, a short promotional video was shown.

The Leader of the Council commended the outstanding work of the Criminal Justice Social Work team and suggested that an update be presented to a future meeting on the work that had taken place over the past five or six years to get to the current position in terms of the reduction in reconviction rates.

Thereafter, the Committee:-

i.    NOTED the outstanding achievements;
ii.    AGREED that the relevant Service Director write to all those involved in recognition of their success; and
iii.    AGREED that an update on Criminal Justice Social Work be presented to a future meeting of the Committee.

4.    Housing Revenue Account (HRA) and Non-HRA Budget Monitoring Statement to 30 September 2018
Cunntas Teachd-a-steach Taigheadais (CTT) agus Aithris Sgrùdaidh Buidseat (Neo-CTT) gu 30 Sultain 2018 

There had been circulated Report No CLH/36/18 dated 8 October 2018 by the Director of Community Services.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-

• information was sought, and provided, in relation to the projected overspend of £173k on the Repairs and Maintenance budget and why, if more money was being spent, the waiting time for repairs and emergency repairs was increasing.  It was added that a significant increase in demand-led repairs might indicate an underlying problem and, the Head of Housing and Building Maintenance having explained that a more detailed breakdown of the various elements of the Repairs and Maintenance Budget was available, it was requested that this be provided to Mr R Laird;
• an explanation was sought, and provided, regarding the timing of new build completions and the associated impact on rents income, which was currently below budget;
• in comparison to the same period last year, the annual sheltered housing budget had increased yet spending had decreased, and an explanation was provided in that regard;
• on the point being raised, an explanation was provided regarding the transfer of the Antisocial Behaviour budget from Non-HRA to HRA.  Tenant representatives added that, in terms of the Antisocial Behaviour Policy, the service was available to both tenants and owner-occupiers and it was questioned whether that was a case of double-charging as tenants also paid Council Tax.  It having been explained that the use of antisocial behaviour staff was almost exclusively on Council estates, Members highlighted that many estates were a mixture of tenants and owner-occupiers as a result of the Right to Buy scheme and it was suggested that the service should be provided where the complainants were Council tenants rather than where a case happened to be; and
• information was sought, and provided, on the variance in respect of the Tenant Participation budget.

The Committee otherwise NOTED the budget position on the Housing Revenue Account and non-Housing Revenue Account.

5.    Community Services Performance Report – 1 April to 30 September 2018    
Aithisg Choileanaidh nan Seirbheisean Coimhearsnachd – 1 Giblean gu 30 Sultain 2018

There had been circulated Report No CLH/37/18 dated 8 October 2018 by the Director of Community Services.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-

• in relation to performance on emergency repairs, information was sought, and provided, on what arrangements were in place to ensure tradesmen were available in the local areas.  The Chair added that he would hope that Area Committees were scrutinising the Housing reports presented to them, particularly in terms of repairs, and suggested that the Leader raise the matter with Area Chairs at their next meeting to ensure that was the case;
• concern was expressed regarding the rent arrears associated with Universal Credit and information was sought, and provided, on whether there was anything that could be done to seek support in rolling Universal Credit back, as well as on the impact of rising rent arrears on service management, budgeting and other tenants.  The Leader of the Council explained that she had written to the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions stating that the cost to the Council of implementing Universal Credit was between £2-3m and seeking a rebate.  In addition, she highlighted that there was an agreement between the Department of Work and Pensions and the Government that housing benefit for temporary accommodation be removed from Universal Credit.  However, it had not yet been implemented and it was necessary to continue to apply pressure in that regard.  Members added that it would be helpful to have more detail on the lobbying which had taken place and whether there had been any positive response.  It was further suggested that the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions be invited to appear in the Council Chamber to explain the actions of the UK Government and listen to Members’ concerns; and
• concern was expressed that the average re-let time appeared to be static and the target was not being met, and information was sought on how many properties were sitting unlet at any time and what could be done to improve performance.  It was suggested that breaking down the statistics by area/ward would give a more accurate reflection as some areas had particularly low demand.  In that regard, the Chair explained that ward statistics were reported to Area Committees and he undertook to reflect on whether there was any advantage in reporting them centrally.  It was highlighted that section 3.2 of the report contained a link to the ward reporting section of the Members’ Intranet.

The Committee otherwise NOTED the information provided on housing performance in the period 1 April to 30 September 2018.

6.    Housing Allocation Policy – Annual Report
Poileasaidh Riarachaidh Taigheadais – Aithisg Bhliadhnail

Declaration of Interest: Ms L Munro declared a financial interest in this item as a Council house tenant but, in terms of the dispensation granted by the Standards Commission, remained to participate in the discussion.

There had been circulated Report No CLH/38/18 dated 1 October 2018 by the Director of Community Services.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-

• in relation to Chart 11, it would be helpful to know what proportion of applicants in the various categories were housed.  For example, the chart indicated that 37% of those housed had homelessness points but, to understand what effect having such points had on the likelihood of getting a house, it would be more useful to know what proportion of those housed had homelessness points.  The Head of Housing and Building Maintenance confirmed that he was happy to look at the content and presentation of the report and undertook to liaise with Mr R Laird in that regard;
• a significant proportion of people seeking a home did not apply for social housing as they saw it as futile.  Given that the supply and demand assessment was used to inform the strategic housing investment plan, information was sought, and provided, on whether unregistered demand was taken into account;
• in relation to Chart 10, clarification having been sought in respect of an anomaly in the “% Housed of Demand” figures for East and West Caithness, it was explained that the figure for West Caithness should be 60%, not 6% as set out in the report;
• information was sought, and provided, on what advice applicants were given on the likelihood of getting a house in a particular area.  In that regard, reference was made to the section in the housing application guidance notes entitled “Where social housing is available in the Highlands” which listed every area where social housing existed, the implication being that if applicants selected one of those areas they had a chance of getting a house there, which was not necessarily the case.  It was necessary to explain to potential tenants where housing was available so they could submit a more nuanced application and have a more realistic impression of whether or not they were likely to get a house;
• it was necessary to refine the advice given on the type of housing people wished to apply for.  For example, there were a significant number of people on the housing register seeking 1-bedroomed properties in areas where there were no such properties;
• the housing application form needed to be amended to include a return address;
• it was requested that, when reviewing the allocations policy, consideration be given to the points raised during discussion;
• the Chair referred to discussions at a recent Policy Development Group regarding housing pressure, particularly in Inverness, and whether more could be done in terms of working with people on the register to find solutions not immediately within the city, if that was the right outcome, so they could have a house sooner;
• it was queried whether the choice-based letting system, which worked well in other areas, could be extended, as it would benefit both applicants and the Council.  However, Members added that one size did not fit all and while choice-based letting was working well in parts of Caithness, it would not necessarily work in an area of housing pressure;
• reference was made to instances of Tomatin Estate or Distillery workers becoming homeless when their employment came to an end but wishing to remain in the area.  Information was sought, and provided, on what could be done in such circumstances and it was added that affordable housing for local people was an issue not only in Tomatin but in rural areas throughout Highland;
• it would be easier for communities to grow if they were enthusiastic about the rollout of social housing and information was sought, and provided, on what measures were in place to ensure that community views were fed in to the review of the allocations policy;
• it was necessary to look at the anecdotal evidence of those who would not engage with the allocations process, particularly in relation to Need to Reside points;
• people often needed a transfer into a bigger house and information was sought, and provided, on the percentages of properties given over to transfers; and
• having dealt with two housing surveys in his own ward, the Chair commented that housing need was being underreported and it was necessary to find a way to embolden communities.

The Committee otherwise NOTED:-

i.    the information contained in the Annual Monitoring Report which identified that the policy was achieving its objectives in relation to meeting housing needs; and
ii.    that a policy review focusing on the Housing (Scotland) Act 2014 was due to take place this year.

7.    Presentation: Addressing Child Poverty – Money+ Project
Taisbeanadh: A’ Cur Aghaidh ri Bochdainn Chloinne – Pròiseact Airgead+

Ms M Macdonald, Preventing Poverty Manager, gave a presentation on the Money+ project, the aim of which was to help prevent and alleviate poverty experienced by families with young children through the provision of income maximisation and financial inclusion advice.  It was funded through the European Social Fund procured through the Chief Executive’s office, and managed and hosted within the Care and Learning Service.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-

• it was very concerning  that 67% of children living in poverty were from families in work, and it underlined the importance of supporting projects such as Money+;
• it was a great injustice that children were going to school hungry and poorly clothed;
• reference was made to a project in Sutherland that used food discarded by supermarkets and which was sobering, both in terms of the quantity of food discarded and how quickly families in need came to collect it;
• substantial progress had been made in addressing child poverty between 2000 and 2010 but this progress had been reversed in recent years  as a result of austerity;
• Members emphasised the role of Community Partnerships in terms of working collaboratively, avoiding duplication and exploring what could be done at a local level to help children and families living in poverty;
• reference was made to the Hungry Horse initiative at the Bught Stop, which provided meals for children from low income families, and an ancillary event taking place the following week, set up with the assistance of NHS Highland’s Community Development Officer, Kate MacLean, whereby UHI students would offer free haircuts to children who attended;
• it was highlighted that the next meeting of Inverness Community Partnership was scheduled to take place on 26 November 2018 in Merkinch Community Centre.  The Chair of the Partnership extended an invitation to the Preventing Poverty Manager and expressed interest in working with her in relation to the proposed Food+ project;
• to make real changes it was necessary to dispel the myth that children were living in poverty because of failings by their parents and convey a more realistic picture of what was happening in communities across the board;
• Members welcomed the project using health visitors and early years/school settings to target those who would benefit from the service as they were often the only way many families engaged with the public sector;
• the need to address “holiday hunger”, a previously under-reported issue whereby children were going hungry when free school meals were not available, was emphasised and it was confirmed that this would be targeted by the proposed Food+ project;
• information was sought, and provided, regarding the Council’s contribution to the project and the impact of the UK leaving the European Union on its continuation beyond March 2019.  The Acting Head of Policy explained that commitments to existing European projects had been made and undertook to confirm the position in writing to Mr R Laird;
• the face of poverty was changing and Members referred to their own experiences of working families in remote and rural areas living salary to salary, having to give up work because they could no longer afford a car, and exhausting credit cards and loans until poverty set in, causing angst and tension in relationships impacting on children in the household;
• the importance of preventative work and awareness-raising was emphasised;
• many families who were eligible for free school meals and school clothing grants did not apply and it was important to do as much as possible to assist them, and to maximise Pupil Equity Funding.  In that regard, Members cited an example whereby, as a result of Project Workers attending a local group, six families who had not been aware they were entitled to free school meals had been assisted to apply;
• Project Workers’ presence in schools would increase teachers’ awareness of families living in poverty;
• thanks were expressed to the Preventing Poverty Manager and her team for the work they did in challenging circumstances, and it was important they understood they had a resource in Elected Members;
• Wick had the highest child poverty rate in Highland, and reference was made to the associated impact in terms of anxiety and depression, long-term illness and alcohol abuse.  Universal credit had had a devastating impact on tenants, there were high levels of fuel poverty and food bank use had doubled in the space of a year, and it was essential to keep investing in projects such as Money+; and
• the Leader commended the work being undertaken by the Council to try and counteract poverty, particularly the statistical analysis by the Acting Head of Policy and her team to identify areas to focus on.  Universal credit was setting people up for debt, particularly in rural areas where the cost of living was up to 40% higher, and she wondered what effect increasing poverty was having on children’s services.  In relation to project funding, she highlighted that more than 50% of European Social Fund monies had not been allocated.  She welcomed the intervention rate increasing to 70% and emphasised the need to attract as much funding as possible to Highland and use it where it would be of most benefit.  Poverty could not be addressed alone and there was a need for more multi-agency work.  In that regard, she explained that she would be bringing forward proposals in terms of merging the work being undertaken by the Council with that being undertaken by the Community Planning Partnership in respect of the Highland Outcome Improvement Plan.

The Committee otherwise NOTED the presentation.

8.    Care and Learning Revenue Budget Monitoring 2018/19
Sgrùdadh Buidseat Teachd-a-steach a’ Chùraim agus an Ionnsachaidh 2018/19

There had been circulated Report No CLH/39/18 dated 4 October 2018 by the Director of Care and Learning.

During discussion, further information was sought, and provided, on a number of the management actions implemented to address the forecast overspend, namely, one-off use of earmarked funding for in year expenditure; actions to address forecast underspend to deliver savings; review of forecast savings from Sustainable Education programme; reduced central funding to schools that were over entitlement; and vacancy management.

The main area of overspend continued to be Looked After Children and information was sought on how much bringing children back to Highland was predicted to save and how it would impact on the current overspend.  The Chair reminded Members that the overspend in respect of Looked After Children had been consistently reported to Committee over the last 18 months.  This had led to the implementation of the Placement Services Change Programme that was the subject of the following item, and it had previously been reported that a significant reduction in overspend to the current budgeted level would not be seen until year three.

Thereafter, the Committee:-

i.    AGREED the revenue budget projected overspend position for the year to 30 September 2018; and
ii.    NOTED the actions being taken with regard to the budget position.

9.    Placement Services Change Programme Update
Cunntas às Ùr mu Phrògram Atharrachadh Seirbheis Suidheachaidh

There had been circulated Report No CLH/40/18 dated 4 October 2018 by the Director of Care and Learning.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-

• recognition was given to the detailed planning and progress that was being made in not only keeping children and young people in Highland but returning those who had been placed elsewhere, and it was important to recognise the value of resourcing and empowering schools to support this;
• clarification was sought and provided on the input young people and the third sector were providing;
• clarity was sought for future reports on the reported current projected spend for 2018/19 for Looked After Children which included a wider range of services not included in the Placement Services Change Programme’;
• it was hoped the two year fixed term appointment of Lead on the educational attainment of Looked After Children could be made permanent in future, if long term funding could be secured;
• it was important the Attainment Challenge Funding for Care Experienced Young People was appropriately ring-fenced; and
• information was sought and provided on the flexible school packages that were being put in place for children with additional support needs.

The Committee:-

i.    scrutinised and NOTED the progress to date against the Programme Plan; and
ii.    NOTED the revised spend profile for the current financial year.

10.    Community and Leisure Capital Budget 2018/19 to 2022/23
Buidseat Calpa Coimhearsnachd agus Cur-seachad 2018/19 gu 2022/23

Declarations of Interest:

Mr A Jarvie, Mr D Macpherson and Ms L Munro declared non-financial interests in this item as Directors of High Life Highland but, having applied the test outlined in Paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3 of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, concluded that their interests did not preclude their involvement in the discussion.

Mr G Ross declared a non-financial as a Board member for the Charleston Community Complex, the James Cameron Community Centre and the Cameron Youth Centre but, having applied the test outlined in Paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3 of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, concluded that his interest did not preclude his involvement in the discussion.

Mr K Gowans declared a financial interest as his wife was an employee of High Life Highland but, having applied the test outlined in Paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3 of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, concluded that his interest did not preclude his involvement in the discussion.

There had been circulated Report No CLH/41/18 dated 28 September 2018 by the Director of Care and Learning.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-

• the Chair referred to the difficulties in securing capital funding for projects and the importance of exploring alternative funding opportunities for possible new facilities. He supported the development of a business case for the Indoor Tennis Facility and Outdoor Centre but referred to the many other projects across the Highlands which required funding;
• reference was made to the current financial challenges facing the Council’s budgets and also to the need to plan facilities and services for the future. Given the possibility of two thirds of the cost of the proposed Tennis Facility being met by sources other than the Council, it was important that the full business case be considered;
• it was suggested that over-reliance on the Inverness Common Good Fund for additional funding for capital projects such as the Tennis Facility should be avoided;
• the health and social benefits of tennis were summarised, as was the importance of encouraging sport in young people and finding the champions of the future;
• while it was emphasised that the Indoor Tennis Facility would be of Highland-wide benefit, several members referred to the need for sports facilities in other towns. With this being an ongoing source of discussion, a short life working group was proposed to look at how to bring together and resource facilities, particularly in the area of sport;
• reference was made to the existence of the nearby Inverness Tennis Club;
• further information on the extent to which new facilities would generate additional income for high Life Highland was sought;
• the lack of car parking at the proposed site was pointed out, and it was suggested that any business case either consider alternative locations or explain fully the reasons for the proposed location;
• the Tennis Facility project should not be associated with the Sports Hub project, but treated separately;
• the importance of the mobile library service was emphasised;
• further information was sought on the Inverness Cultural Centre referenced in the report;
• the upgrades listed in Annex 2 of the report were welcomed and further information was sought on the complete list of desired capital projects, including the ones that had not been taken forward.  However, it was disappointing that completion of the replacement synthetic pitch at Charleston Academy had been delayed;
• it was hoped the replacement of mobile library vans would be part of the capital programme in future;
• reference was made to a recent UNICEF campaign for clean air zones around schools and the importance of this being taken into consideration when considering the purchase of vehicles such as library vans; and
• the Chair proposed a more detailed report on Annex 2 be brought to the December meeting of the committee, particularly to identify additional funding opportunities.

Thereafter, Mr A Baxter, seconded by Mr J Finlayson, MOVED the recommendation as detailed in the report with the addition of the establishment of a short-term working group to look at how to bring together and resource facilities, particularly in the area of sport.

As an AMENDMENT, Mr A Jarvie, seconded by Mr R Gale, moved to agree recommendations one, two and four from the report, with the addition of the urgent replacement of four library vehicles at a cost of £520k being key priorities from within this budget.

On a vote being taken, Mr Baxter received 20 votes and Mr Jarvie received 3 votes, with 2 abstentions, and the MOTION was CARRIED, the votes having been cast as follows:-

For the Motion:
Mr A Baxter, Mr Bill Boyd, Mrs I Campbell, Mrs M Cockburn, Ms K Currie, Mr J Finlayson, Mr A Graham, Mr T Heggie, Mr R Laird, Mr G MacKenzie, Mrs I MacKenzie, Mr D Macpherson, Mr R McWilliam, Mrs B McAllister, Ms L Munro, Mrs F Robertson, Mr G Ross, Ms N Sinclair, Mr C Smith and Ms E Leitch.

For the Amendment:
Mr R Gale, Mr A Jarvie and Mr D Mackay.

Abstentions:
Prof H Van Woerden and Ms Sheila Lamont.

The Committee:-

i.    AGREED that, with regard to mobile library vehicles, a strategy of 1 replacement vehicle per annum should be progressed, funded from the capital budget;
ii.    AGREED the prioritisation, as set out in the report and annex 2, to allow officers to further develop options and proposals for those locations;
iii.    AGREED that further project development work and funding applications be progressed in relation to the Indoor Tennis Facility and Outdoor Centre with them being key priorities for funding from within the Community and Leisure capital budget, subject to business cases to be reported back to this Committee; 
iv.    NOTED that the prioritisation proposed would be kept under regular review, should a need for revision arise due to a change in need or funding available; and
v.    AGREED to establish a short-term working group to look at how to bring together and resource facilities, particularly in the area of sport.

11.    Early Learning and Childcare Update
Cunntas às Ùr mu Thràth-ionnsachadh agus Chùram-chloinne

There had been circulated Report No CLH/42/18 dated 5 October 2018 by the Director of Care and Learning.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-

• the report focussed on the activities undertaken by the Council and reference was made to the valuable additional activities undertaken by third sector partners to meet the demanding Scottish Government requirements. Officers from all organisation involved were thanked;
• feedback from ELC Area Boards was requested through Ward Business Meetings;
• with reference to the Government’s funding of capital and revenue for 1140 hours, and the reported challenge to ensure all capital funding was utilised on time, it would be useful if this was monitored with a traffic light system, either to Area Committees or to Ward Business meetings, but with a strategic overview at the Care, Learning and Housing Committee;
• assurance was sought and received, that the additional internal resources required within the Estates Team and the delivery teams within the Development and Infrastructure Service, to have all the necessary extra accommodation and improvements in place by August 2020, was being progressed;
• reference was made to the impact of adverse childhood events in the early years;
• Councillor Thompson requested an update on design work for improvements to Invergarry Nursey; and
• the speed of the rollout of ‘1140 hours’ at Bun-Sgoil Ghàidhlig Loch Abar was commended.

 The Committee AGREED that feedback from ELC Area Boards be provided to Ward Business Meetings and NOTED:-

i.    the position of the Scottish Government Expansion Programme;
ii.    the local progress on the Delivery Plan; 
iii.    the update on the sites delivering 1140 hours; and

12.    Performance Report – Children’s Services
Aithisg Choileanaidh – Seirbheisean Chloinne

There had been circulated Report No CLH/43/18 dated 8 October 2018 by the Director of Care and Learning.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-

• with the Autumn meetings of the Committee close together, there were few changes to the report and the Chair suggested that in future years consideration be given to only presenting the performance report to one of the Autumn meetings;
• work on Adverse Childhood Events should take into account the dramatic rise in school exclusions that occur after the transition to secondary school; and
• there would be a workshop for Members on Resilience and ACES on 12 December 2018.

The Committee:-

i.    scrutinised and NOTED the performance information; and
ii.    NOTED the information provided on quality improvement.

13.    NHS Highland – Assurance Report
NHS na Gàidhealtachd – Aithisg Bharantais 

There had been circulated Report No CLH/44/18 dated 4 October 2018 by the Director of Care and Learning.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-

• revised figures for the September 2018 Integrated Health Monitoring Statement had been circulated;
• the challenges of providing a specialist Family Nurse Partnership service in a rural area were recognised, and it was suggested that digital technology be utilised to provide supervision in relation to the Family Nurse Partnership;
• feedback on the analysis of the local Integrated Children’s Services Plan should be shared with Members; and
• given the positive impact of the service, more frequent and detailed updates should be provided on Speech and Language Therapy provision.

The Committee:-

i.    scrutinised and NOTED the data and issues raised in the report;
ii.    AGREED to explore the possibility of digital technology being utilised to provide supervision in relation to the Family Nurse Partnership;
iii.    AGREED that feedback on the analysis of the local Integrated Children’s Services Plan be shared with Members; and
iv.    AGREED that more frequent and detailed updates be provided on Speech and Language Therapy provision.

14.    Adult Social Care Update
Cunntas às Ùr mu Chùram Sòisealta Inbheach

There had been circulated Report No CLH/45/18 dated 5 October 2018 by the Director of Care and Learning.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-

• information was required on the NHS Highland budget before Council budget decisions could be finalised and an outline of the brokerage position for NHS Highland was provided. While the news of the agreed brokerage to cover the overspends for 2017-18, 2018-19 and 2019-20 for NHS Highland was welcomed,there would still be challenges in terms of avoiding overspends in future years;
• continued focus on Scottish Government priorities to shift the balance of care in relation to Adult Social Care was emphasised;
• a seminar on a joint strategic plan was to be held on 16 November 2018 to which all Members would be invited; and
• in relation to the North Coast Redesign, Councillor Munro requested further detail on the hub proposals, including the number of proposed beds and the start and completion dates.

The Committee NOTED the contents of the report and the highlighted items from the Adult Services Development and Scrutiny Sub-Committee.

15.    Review of Statutory Consultation Exercise on the establishment of a catchment area for Bun-sgoil Ghàidhlig Loch Abar
Ath-sgrùdadh air Eacarsaich Cho-chomhairle Reachdail a thaobh sgìre sgoile a stèidheachadh airson Bun-Sgoil Ghàidhlig Loch Abar

Declaration of Interest: Mr A Graham declared a financial interest in this item as an employee of Bòrd na Gàidhlig and left the Chamber for the duration of the item.

There had been circulated Report No CLH/46/18 dated 2 October 2018 by the Director of Care and Learning.  The appendices had been circulated separately as Booklet A.

*    Having considered the proposal set out within the Consultation Report and associated appendices, the representations received and the report from Education Scotland, the Committee AGREED TO RECOMMEND to the Council the creation of a catchment area for Bun-sgoil Ghàidhlig Loch Abar on the basis shown at Appendix 4 of the Consultation Report.

16.    Statutory Consultation – Gaelic Medium Catchment Proposals for Ullapool Primary School
Co-chomhairle Reachdail – Molaidhean a thaobh Sgìrean Sgoile airson Foghlam tron Ghàidhlig airson Bun-Sgoil Ullapuil

Declaration of Interest: Mr A Graham declared a financial interest in this item as an employee of Bòrd na Gàidhlig and left the Chamber for the duration of the item.

There had been circulated Report No CLH/47/18 dated 4 October 2018 by the Director of Care and Learning.

During discussion it was explained that it was necessary to stagger consultations for other schools, given the volume of GME provision and other statutory consultations to be progressed. Further proposals would be brought to future Committees, covering other areas.

The Committee AGREED to agree to proceed to statutory consultation on the basis of the proposal appended to the report.

17.    Sustainable Education in Highland Communities
Foghlam Seasmhach ann an Coimhearsnachdan na Gàidhealtachd

Declaration of Interest: Ms N Sinclair declared a non-financial interest in this item as her daughter attended Newton Park Primary School but, having applied the test outlined in Paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3 of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, concluded that her interest did not preclude her involvement in the discussion.

There had been circulated Report No CLH/48/18 dated 28 September 2018 by the Director of Care and Learning.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-

• assurance was sought in relation to network capability, to ensure children and staff were able to make use of the full bandwidth of sustainable education;
• the project was one of the most significant facing the Council and would be the focus of intense scrutiny. A Member briefing on the involvement of the Northern Alliance was suggested;
• in relation to the curriculum being flexible to the needs of all young people, not just the majority, it was important that the ICT capability was adequate and an update on this was sought in the December 2018 report, along with more information on how the objectives would be achieved and a timetable for reporting outcomes and impacts;
• feedback on the correspondence with Parent Councils in the Mid Area, to begin the process of forming Stakeholder Groups to make an early start on engagement with communities in preparation for work on future ASGs would be welcomed;
• more information on the plan and funding for the possible piloting of a Team Leader role in a large urban secondary school setting would be helpful;
• further information was sought on the reported review of the ‘middle management’/ Principal Teacher structures in secondary schools’ and to reference to ‘aligning the recruitment of secondary teachers with our colleagues across the Northern Alliance’;
• reference was made to the importance of understanding the “forgotten middle group” of young people (in terms of attainment) and the need to raise aspirations, support and choice for this group;
• Lead officers should be identified for workstreams in the Action Plans for the Sustainable Education in Highland Communities; and
• with reference to the period of considerable change experienced as part of the sustainable education programme in Wick, the staff and Head Teachers were commended for their input and it was considered important that appropriate levels of managerial and back-office support was provided to them, to facilitate their ongoing interaction with communities. It was important to accelerate the pace at which staff were being given the data they required and the financial modelling for each option. Reference was made to successful NHS Highland consultations that had taken place in the area and it was recommended that lessons learnt from such consultations be taken into account in the next round of engagement meetings.

The Committee:-

i.    NOTED the progress on appointments to the Sustainable Education in Highland Communities Team;
ii.    APPROVED the Action Plans for the Sustainable Education in Highland Communities workstreams, as set out in Appendix 1 of the report, subject to the Lead Officers being identified;
iii.    NOTED the progress in each of the Associated School Groups currently under review; and
iv.    AGREED that the learning from previous consultations be taken into account in the next round of engagement meetings.

18.    SQA Examinations: Educational Attainment
Deuchainnean SQA: Buileachadh Foghlaim

There had been circulated Report No CLH/49/18 dated 9 October 2018 by the Director of Care and Learning.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-

• it would be useful for Members to know how their local schools were performing, whether this was at Area Committee or Ward level;
• further information was sought as to how many students across Highland were bypassing National 5 and progressing directly to Higher.  In the past, there had been some reluctance from parents from parents for their children to do this;
• the report showed trends but these graphs would be further enhanced with a degree of contextual commentary;
• it was good to see an increase in positive destinations;
• Pupil Equity Funding was being used more effectively and consequently the benefits were now being seen;
• a position statement was sought as to the development of the Broad General Education  dashboard for Primary Schools;
• varing points were raised around the definition of rural deprivation and further discussion was needed with the Scottish Government and internally with Highland Council;
• it was essential to continue to strive for improvements; and
• concern was expressed that performance in closing the attainment gap was remained poor when compared to the virtual comparator (VC).  In this regard, when using the VC to report performance, it was important to be consistent.

The Committee:-

i.    scrutinised and NOTED the performance information;
ii.    AGREED that a brief commentary be provided against relevant tables in future reports; and 
iii.    AGREED that a more local breakdown of the educational attainment figures be provided to Area Committees or Ward Business Meetings, as appropriate.

19.    Education Improvement Plan
Plana Leasachaidh Foghlaim

There had been circulated Report No CLH/50/18 dated 8 October 2018 by the Director of Care and Learning.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-

• whilst a review of Personal and Social Education (PSE) delivery in schools was welcomed, it was felt that this was something which needed to be developed at school level as pupils came from a range of environments.  In this regard, it was important to recognise the importance of children and young people in influencing this;
• it was queried when a review of the sex education policy would take place; and
• a fuller explanation of the 1+2 language strategy was requested for a future meeting.

The Committee:-

i.    NOTED the Standards and Quality Report for 2017-18;
ii.    APPROVED the education improvement priorities for 2018-19; and
iii.    APPROVED the actions to deliver the plans.

20.    The Highland Council’s British Sign Language Plan 2018 - 2024
Plana Cànan-soidhnidh Bhreatainn Chomhairle na Gàidhealtachd 2018-2024

There had been circulated Report No CLH/51/18 dated 8 October 2018 by the Acting Head of Policy.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-

• information was sought, and received, as to the rollout of the pack produced by the Highland Deaf Education Service for delivering British Sign Language (BSL) in upper Primary schools;
• Dingwall Academy was praised as being the first school in Highland to offer BSL as a modern foreign language and the development of the Plan, which was highly commended by Members, increased BSL’s standing;
• BSL had a part to play in Personal and Social Education and across the curriculum, not just in schools where there were deaf pupils;
• the range of engagement methods was of such a comprehensive nature that it was suggested other Council Services could adopt a similar approach to consultations; and
• information was sought, and provided, as to the availability of BSL classes for relatives of people with hearing impairments.

The Committee:-

i.    NOTED the content of the report including current activities outlined in section 4;
ii.    NOTED the range of consultation and engagement carried out with partners, British Sign Language users and stakeholders in the development of the plan;
iii.    AGREED the draft plan and actions set out in Appendix 1 of the report; and
iv.    AGREED to progress reports every two years.

21.    Community Learning, Development and Engagement Plan 2018-2021
Plana Ionnsachaidh, Leasachaidh agus Com-pàirteachais Coimhearsnachd 2018-2021

There had been circulated Report No CLH/52/18 dated 4 October 2018 by the Director of Care and Learning.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-

• clarification was sought, and received, as why Inverness City Centre had not originally been identified by the Community Planning Partnership for action despite being included in the ten most deprived data zones in Highland; and
• detail was sought as to the benefit community learning and development would have as the Council pursued its localism agenda given its role in developing community capacity. 

The Committee APPROVED the draft Highland Community Learning, Development and Engagement Plan 2018-21 as set out in Appendix 1 of the report, subject to the addition of the outcomes that the Service sought to achieve.

22.    Update on Family Teams
Cunntas às Ùr mu Sgiobaidhean Teaghlaich

There had been circulated Report No CLH/53/18 dated 4 October 2018 by the Director of Care and Learning.

The Committee NOTED the update.

23.    Chief Social Work Officer Report: 2017/18
Aithisg Àrd-Oifigear na h-Obrach Sòisealta: 2017/18

There had been circulated Report No CLH/54/18 dated 9 October 2018 by the Director of Care and Learning.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-

• the fact that children under the age of 2 were on the Child Protection Register was sobering.  Sadly there were likely to be other children affected which the authorities were unaware of and the long term mental and physical costs were considerable;
• the Chief Social Work Officer’s Report was usually at the end of the agenda and, to give it more prominence in the future, it could perhaps be considered in advance in more detail at a policy development group;
• some of the indicators used to determine levels of poverty needed to be revisited given societal changes which had taken place; and
• reference was made to a recent inspection of a Residential Child Care facility.  It was important that the Council worked closely with the provider to ensure standards were improved and that children felt safe and secure.    

The Committee NOTED the issues raised in the annual report.

24.    Minutes
Geàrr-chunntas

The Committee:-

i.    NOTED the Minutes of the Highland Violence Against Women Partnership Group – 2 May 2018;
ii.    NOTED the Minutes of the Highland Alcohol and Drugs Partnership Strategy Group – 5 June 2018;
iii.    NOTED the Minutes of the Highland Community Justice Partnership – 20 June 2018;
iv.    NOTED the Minutes of the Highland Child Protection Committee – 26 June 2018; and
v.    APPROVED the Minutes of the Adult Services Development and Scrutiny Sub-Committee – 5 October 2018.

In terms of Standing Order 8, in order to ensure that the Adult Services Development and Scrutiny Sub-Committee had full representation prior to its next meeting the Chair agreed that the undernoted item be taken as an urgent additional item of business.

25.    Membership of Adult Services Development and Scrutiny Sub-Committee
Ballrachd Fho-Chomataidh Leasachaidh agus Sgrùdaidh nan Seirbheisean Inbheach

Following the resignation of Ms K Stephen, the Committee AGREED to appoint Mr A Graham to fill the vacancy on the Adult Services Development and Scrutiny Sub-Committee.

The meeting concluded at 3.25 pm.