Agenda item

Report of Corporate Director of Neighbourhoods and Climate Change

Presentation by Owen Cleugh, Public Protection Manager

The Committee considered a report of the Corporate Director Neighbourhoods and Climate Change which provided an overview of the ongoing work of the Horden Together initiative (for copy see file of Minutes).

The Head of Community Protection Services gave a detailed presentation which included development of the Theory of Change work as part of the Partnerships for People and Places Programme. (for copy see file of Minutes).

Councillor David Sutton-Lloyd noted the positive steps that were being taken by the initiative adding that communication was key and that  members were aware  of the project and asked if a site visit was  necessary for the Committee.

Owen Cleugh Head of Community Protection Services informed the Committee that the Horden project was a flag ship and front runner and there was a need to get things right in Horden first. He noted it would not be a one size fits all approach and would move to a more area based approach in those communities that needed the support.

The Chair informed the Committee that the possibility of a site visit was being looked into, although that it may be better to organise this in smaller groups and the groups would need to contact either Joanne Waller or Owen Cleugh to organise this.

Councillor Cathy Hunt was pleased to hear residents to fed information into the system.

Owen Cleugh informed the Committee that whilst this was the case it was difficult to get residents to make reports adding that they were getting a lot of push back. The project was however actively trying to encourage engagement with regular door knocks and a more visible presence throughout the community. 

Councillor Joe Quinn noted that whilst he felt the programme was an excellent idea it felt very similar to the CAT Team, where the impact on the community was good until they left the area and the impact would fade after a few weeks. Councillor Quinn raised concerns over the long term impact of the Horden Together scheme, also asking about the possibility of similar schemes being introduced into other areas.

Owen Cleugh responded to those concerns raised by Councillor Quinn by informing the Committee that the project was looking to build a legacy in Horden that would last years and looked to educate the community on issues to create the right mind set. In response to the question about similar programmes in other communities, the Committee were informed that this would depend on resources and the geography of the area such as whether there was a location to set up a base.

Councillor David McKenna raised concerns about drugs issues across the County and asking what access to counselling had been provided and what groups the project worked with.

Owen Cleugh informed the Committee that counselling was being provided around substance misuse and links to support he commented that one the difficulties supporting people with drug and alcohol issues  was attendance at appointments. It was confirmed the project had an open door policy in terms of groups it worked with.

The Chair informed the Committee that she and the vice chair had been on a visit to the new hub and found the facilities fantastic and praised the work being done there.