Issue - meetings

This item includes a supplementary report.

That the report be noted and the work being undertaken in response to the Coronavirus restrictions be endorsed.

Cabinet considered a report on the actions being taken across the Council in response to the Coronavirus restrictions on the Borough.

The report outlined the two key areas where work had been stepped up as a priority in response to the current national restrictions:

(1)  Support for Businesses – the Portfolio Holder for Finance and Efficiency, Councillor Stephen Sweeney, outlined the range of funding available to local businesses, funded by the Government.  Some non-discretionary grant payments had already been made.

(2)  Support for Vulnerable People – the Portfolio Holder for Community Safety and Wellbeing, Councillor Helena Maxfield, outlined the increased work to support vulnerable people:

-       the support service delivered through the Realise Foundation had stepped up its support via the call centre and web portal;

-       Revenues and Benefits staff were processing applications for payments under the scheme to support those required to self-isolate and subsequently unable to work and the Test and Trace Self Isolations Support Scheme was also available to support those in receipt of particular benefits who were required to self-isolate but would lose income by so doing;

-       The Homelessness Team continued its support for those sleeping rough or at risk of homelessness.

In addition, the Severe Weather Protocol was also in place. 

There had been an impact on some Council Services although this was less severe than previously.  The Portfolio Holder for Leisure, Culture and Heritage, Councillor Jill Waring, updated that both J2 and the Brampton Museum were currently closed but were offering online services.  A recent initiative included online exercise classes available to staff.  Face to face services at Castle House had been restricted with Customer Services available on line or over the phone. 

The Portfolio Holder for Environment and Recycling, Councillor Trevor Johnson, reported that all frontline services were running.  There was some delay with food hygiene inspections due to the additional pressure and workload on that team.

In terms of economic recovery the Council was making preparations for a successful reopening of Newcastle town centre and other high streets in the Borough in time for Christmas. 

The financial support from the Government was outlined.  The Leader reported that the Council continued to work closely with Members of Parliament and the Local Government Association to lobby for ongoing support.

Resolved: that the report be noted and the work being undertaken in response to the Coronavirus restrictions be endorsed.