Issue - meetings

This report outlines the role of the community hubs which were set up as part of the Council’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic. The report highlights the successful outcomes of this response, identifies good practice and considers the Council’s future role in the hubs.

Cabinet is asked to consider continued support and additional funding for the hubs, recognising the significance of the role they have played to date, including the extent and strength of the volunteering effort, depth of community engagement and value of the partnerships that have been established.

The report outlined the role of the community hubs which were set up as part of the Council’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic. The report highlights the successful outcomes of this response, identifies good practice and considers the Council’s future role in the hubs.

Cabinet was asked to consider continued support and additional funding for the hubs, recognising the significance of the role they have played to date, including the extent and strength of the volunteering effort, depth of community engagement and value of the partnerships that have been established.

Cabinet Members noted that in the event of a second peak or other emergency COVID-19 requirement (eg localised lockdowns) the hub operations and needs would be reviewed.

Proposed by Councillor Mrs Hollingsbee,

Seconded by Councillor Wimble; and

RESOLVED:

1.          That report C/20/21 be received and noted.

2.          That the Community Hub model be noted.

3.          That the Council provide up to £35,000 in 2020/21 to support the Community Hub model; and

4.          That the allocation of funding be delegated to the Director of Place, in consultation with Cabinet Member for Communities, Lifeline, Area Officers & Street Homeless.

(Voting figures: 9 for, 0 against, 0 abstentions).

REASONS FOR DECISION:

Cabinet was asked to agree the recommendations because:

a)              Support for the continuation of a community and voluntary sector led response to Covid-19 will be a key feature of the District’s recovery period.

b)              There is a significant opportunity to create a positive and continued legacy for the hub model to support the health and well-being of communities, based on a contribution from all stakeholders, volunteers and the community.

c)              Council support for the hub response, moving into the recovery period, requires a final funding contribution in 2020/21 to enable a self-sustaining model to be developed.