Agenda item

The Cabinet noted a report of the Chief Executive which presented an overview of progress towards achieving the key outcomes of the council’s corporate performance framework and highlighted key messages to inform strategic priorities and work programmes in and to the end of quarter three, 2022/23, October to December 2022 (for copy of report see file of minutes).

The Leader of the Council thanked the Head of Corporate Affairs for his update and highlighted the legacy of the pandemic and the cost of living squeeze.  It had been pleasing to note that there were over 250 more core tourism businesses were in operation as more businesses reopened. The success of the festival programme including the Durham Book Festival, Seaham Food Festival and Brass had generated a significant impact on the local economy. Combined economic impact of £850,000.

There were 1200 social housing decarbonisation funding properties with increased Energy Performance Certificate ratings which would mean reduced energy costs for in September 2023.

There had been a low referral rate for children’s social care support and 1134 families turned around by the stronger families programme, 1039 significant and sustained outcomes which meant that the Council had exceeded its annual 2022/23 target.

In terms of Adult social care reablement service, 93% of older people had returned to home after release from hospital. The highest proportion since 2015/16.

In communities, although there had been fewer net housing completions, however, the Council remained on target. The Council had provided for cost of living crisis support with £200,000 of grant funding for a network of 68 warm spaces, distribution of food vouchers worth £110 to 28,500 households. The 2023/24 budget continued to support low income households through the Local Council Tax Reduction Scheme. The Council were also committed to supporting young people into the workplace with 2.7% of workforce enrolled on apprenticeship programme, which equated to 484 employees of which 270 were new to the organisation and 214 were existing staff upskilling.

In 2021/22, 45% of Key Stage 4 pupils achieved a slightly lower percentage than our statistical neighbours. Education Durham were continuing to work with all schools, to equal or better access to high quality provision.

The proportion of Adult Social User receiving a review remained low at 61%, a new central review team had been created to provide more resource.

Resolved:

That the report be noted.