Agenda item

The Committee received a report of the Chief Executive which provided an overview of progress towards achieving the strategic ambitions and objectives set out in the 2024-28 Council Plan and contained the most recent performance data available as of 30 June 2024. The information related to activity and events taking place in the first quarter of the 2024/25 financial year (April to June) (for copy see file of minutes).

The Strategy Team Leader presented the report and highlighted the key messages structured around the four thematic areas that were going well and issues that were being addressed.

Mrs Morris referred to the Gross Value Added (GVA) performance which was on par with the North East average, but lower than the National average and asked whether evidence was being developed to help target areas of underperformance to close the gap and bring in line with national targets. She also commented that in relation to the employability programmes 160 clients had registered onto the various available programmes during this quarter and then asked for clarification of the overall number of residents in County Durham that are eligible for the programmes. The Strategy Team Leader advised that they were working on a geographical breakdown and economic profile which would be reported to the Special meeting of the Committee in February 2024. With regards to employability, she was aware of target figures for overall schemes, however she would contact the Service Grouping for a response for circulation to members of the committee.

Resolved:

That the overall position and direction of travel in relation to quarter one performance (April to June), and the actions taken to address areas of challenge be noted.