Agendas, reports and minutes

Minutes of Meeting of the Education, Children and Adult Services Committee held in the Council Chamber, Council Headquarters, Glenurquhart Road, Inverness on Wednesday 14 January 2015 at 10.05 am.

Present:

Highland Council:

Dr D Alston, Mrs I Campbell, Mr A Christie (Chair), Ms J Douglas, Mr B Fernie, Mr B Gormley, Mr K Gowans, Mr A Graham (Substitute), Mr M Green, Mr D Hendry, Mrs D Mackay, Mr W Mackay, Mr G MacKenzie, Mrs B McAllister, Mr D Millar (video conferencing), Mrs M Paterson, Mr M Rattray, Mrs F Robertson, Mr G Ross, Ms J Slater, Ms M Smith, Ms K Stephen

NHS Highland:

Mrs M Duncan

Religious Representatives:

Dr A Fraser
Ms M McCulloch

Non-Members also present:

Dr I Cockburn, Mr H Fraser (video conferencing), Mr J Gordon, Mr A Mackinnon, Mr I Renwick, Mr J Stone

In attendance:

Mr B Alexander, Director of Care and Learning
Ms S MacLeod, Head of Health, Care and Learning Service
Ms F Palin, Head of Adult Services, Care and Learning Service
Mr B Porter, Head of Resources, Care and Learning Service
Mr J Steven, Head of Education, Care and Learning Service
Mr R Campbell, Estate Strategy Manager, Care and Learning Service
Mr K Bolger, Mental Health Officer Manager, Mid/South Area, Care and Learning Service
Mr E Foster, Finance Manager, Finance Service
Ms G Newman, Highland Children’s Forum (Third Sector)
Mrs R Moir, Principal Administrator, Corporate Development Service
Miss M Murray, Committee Administrator, Corporate Development Service
Ms L Lee, Committee Administrator, Corporate Development Service

Also in attendance:

Ms J Macdonald, Director of Adult Social Care, NHS Highland

An asterisk in the margin denotes a recommendation to the Council. All decisions with no marking in the margin are delegated to the Committee.

Mr A Christie in the Chair

Business

Preliminaries

Prior to the commencement of formal business, the Chairman explained that the Care and Learning Service had achieved success at the Council’s Quality Awards 2014 as follows:- 

• Working Together for our Children and Young People – Resilient Kids, delivered by the Psychological Service
• Working Together for Strong, Safe and Empowered Communities – Dingwall Academy S1 Cross-Curricular Deaf Studies Course
• Working Together for Efficiency and Service Improvement – delivering the best used and most cost effective library service in Scotland, through High Life Highland
• Employee of the Year – Lauren Clark, Clerical Assistant in the Throughcare and Aftercare Team 

On behalf of the Committee, he congratulated all those involved.

1.  Apologies for Absence
Leisgeulan

Apologies for absence were intimated on behalf of Mrs M Davidson, Ms L Munro, Ms G Ross, Dr M Foxley, Dr K Oates, Mr G Smith and Mr S Finlayson.

2.  Declarations of Interest
Foillseachaidhean Com-pàirt

The Committee NOTED the following declarations of interest:-

Item 5 – Ms J Douglas (non-financial) and Mr K Gowans (non-financial and financial)
Item 7 – Mr A Christie (non-financial)
Item 8 – Mr A Christie (non-financial)
Item 13 – Ms J Douglas (non-financial) and Mr K Gowans (non-financial and financial)
Item 14 – Mr K Gowans (financial)
Item 16 – Mr A Christie (non-financial)

Dr D Alston declared a non-financial interest in those items relating to integrated health and social care services as a Board Member of NHS Highland but, in terms of the Specific Exclusion at Section 5.18(2)(i) of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, remained to participate in discussion on those items.

3.  Membership of Sub-Committees
Ballrachd Fho-chomataidhean

The Committee AGREED the following:-  

• Criminal Justice Sub-Committee – Ms K Stephen to replace Mr D Millar as Substitute
• Culture and Leisure Contracts Scrutiny Sub-Committee – Dr D Alston to replace Mr J Stone

4.  Revenue Budget 2014/15 - Monitoring
Buidseat Teachd-a-steach 2014/15 – Sgrùdadh

There had been circulated Report No ECAS/01/15 dated 24 December 2014 by the Director of Care and Learning which provided the Care and Learning budget monitoring for the period to 30 November 2014 and the forecast year-end position.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-  

• the inclusion of budget virements in Appendix 2 of the report was welcomed;
• unachieved savings would have a cumulative effect on budgets and Members reiterated the need for a report on this issue, as requested at the Resources Committee;
• moving in to 2015/16, some of the central budgets that had previously been used to support schools would no longer be available and information was sought on how it was proposed to address issues such as supply teaching overspends and devolved school budget deficits;
• concern was expressed regarding the significant overspend on school transport; this was an ongoing pressure and information was requested on how and when it was proposed to address it;
• further information was sought on the unachieved savings from school hostels;
• clarification was requested in relation to the costs associated with refreshing ICT in schools, as Members understood that this formed part of the contract;
• in relation to Additional Support Needs and the pressures that remained in special schools, it was important to ensure that plans were in place to support schools and increase the number of teachers;
• there were several areas of concern in relation to family teams in the Performance Report at item 10i on the agenda and the importance of linking budget and performance information was emphasised; and
• the reduction in the number of children in out of authority placements was welcomed and it was hoped that more children could be accommodated in Highland in the future.

The Chairman confirmed that a detailed report setting out the reasons for unachieved savings – some of which were within the Council’s control, while others were dependent on national terms and conditions – would be presented to a future meeting. The main issue was that the proposal to have Head Teachers manage larger groupings of schools had not been progressed due to problems identifying further appropriate clusters. In relation to supply cover, it was necessary to have a robust process in place that avoided schools having to be closed and pressures upon devolved school budgets. The data from the current year would be reported to the Committee in May and would assist in planning for future years.

With regard to school transport, he shared Members’ concerns that this had not progressed as quickly as it could have. He referred to the Integrated Transport Project and explained that he was working closely with the Chairs of the Community Services and Planning, Development and Infrastructure Committees with a view to bringing reports to the next cycle of meetings on how transport issues could be addressed corporately.

On the point being raised, the Leader of the Council confirmed that integrated transport would be on the next Community Planning Partnership agenda. In addition, he explained that some pilot work had been carried out in Lochaber.

Thereafter, the Committee:-

i. APPROVED the monitoring statement; and
ii. NOTED the areas of budget pressures and mitigating actions to date.

5.  Capital Expenditure 2014/15 - Monitoring
Caiteachas Calpa 2014/15 – Sgrùdadh

Declarations of Interest:

Ms J Douglas and Mr K Gowans declared non-financial interests in this item as Directors of High Life Highland but, having applied the test outlined in Paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3 of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, concluded that their interests did not preclude their involvement in the discussion.

In addition, Mr K Gowans declared a financial interest on the basis that his wife was an employee of High Life Highland but, having applied the test outlined in Paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3 of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, concluded that his interest did not preclude his involvement in the discussion.

There had been circulated Report No ECAS/02/15 dated 20 December 2014 by the Director of Care and Learning which advised on progress with the Care and Learning capital programme and the monitoring forecast for the period to end November 2014 and provided an update of various other matters.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-  

• Members were anxious to see the works at Grantown Grammar School and Craig MacLean Leisure Centre progress as soon as possible and information was sought as to why they did not appear on the list of major projects;
• Kingussie High School was vulnerable to flooding and there had been discussions regarding a flood management strategy that would include the school. The importance of the various partners working together was emphasised and it was requested that information be presented to Local Members as soon as possible. In response, the Chairman confirmed that he would ensure that information was presented to him and the Ward Business Meeting in the near future;
• disappointment was expressed that there was no reference in the report to the Broadford Hall car park project, to which the Council had been asked to contribute approximately £160,000. The Care and Learning Service used the car park as a drop-off point for Broadford Primary School and Members were concerned that the Hall Committee could refuse access if matters were not progressed. In response, it was explained that approval had been granted, in principle, to make a contribution towards the proposed works and a meeting would be arranged with the contact for the Hall later in the month. The Chairman confirmed that he would do what he could to expedite matters;
• there had been a number of delays to the St Duthus School project and an update, including a timeline for completion, was sought. In addition, concern was expressed regarding the safety of the lime trees on the site and, given the recent storms, it was suggested that they be inspected to ensure they were not at risk of falling. In response, it was confirmed that a briefing covering both issues would be provided to Ward Members;
• it was hoped that the data relating to roll pressures in Inverness primary schools would be used to inform the impact on secondary schools and information was requested on what was being done to ensure a cost effective and sustainable solution. In response, the Chairman explained that it was necessary to look at roll pressures across a large geographical area so that schools were not dealt with in isolation. All data captured would be fed in to give a complete picture of the Associated School Group (ASG). This would then be used to create a timeline and implement measures to address the pressures and ensure a smooth transition;
• as part of the Sustainable School Estate Review (SSER) in Lochalsh, Local Members had requested an additional classroom at Auchtertyre Primary School. However, this was not mentioned in the report. In response, the Chairman explained that a report on future investment priorities would be presented to the Committee on 11 February 2015. In the meantime, he would discuss the matter with Ward Members to see what assistance he could provide;
• information was sought on the status of the St Clement’s School project in Dingwall and whether the new annexe would relieve the pressure on Drummond School. In response, it was confirmed that a briefing would be provided to Ward Members and Mrs B McAllister;
• concern was expressed regarding overcrowding at Merkinch Primary School and it was stated that a new school was required. There was sufficient space on the existing site and it was suggested that the original school, a listed building, could be sold for other purposes. In response, the Chairman concurred that it was not feasible to continue adding temporary classrooms to schools which might not have the necessary infrastructure in terms of toilet and dining facilities etc. One size did not fit all and it was necessary to look at each school within an ASG and provide the appropriate solution; and
• reference was made to the difficulties in progressing the playing field at Acharacle Primary School. The school itself had been completed approximately six years previously and concern was expressed that the indicative costs for the playing field were considerably out of date.

Thereafter, the Committee:-

i. NOTED the position as at the end of November 2014 for the 2014/15 capital programme as outlined in Paragraph 2.1 and detailed in Appendix 1 of the report;
ii. NOTED the status of major capital projects as per Appendix 2 of the report;
iii. NOTED that details of the projects to be funded from the £5,000,000 allocation from the Scottish Government to support the introduction of free school meals for Primary 1 to 3 pupils would be brought to the next meeting of the Committee, as detailed in Paragraph 2.3 of the report;
iv. NOTED that details of the likely future investment priorities for the school estate would be brought to the next meeting of the Committee, as detailed in Paragraph 2.4 of the report;
v. NOTED the progress to date with the exercise to evaluate the implications of the roll pressures facing a number of primary schools in Inverness over the next few years, as detailed in Paragraph 2.5 of the report;
vi. NOTED the contractual progress with the Wick campus project and final cost position, as detailed in Paragraph 2.6 of the report;
vii., NOTED the current position with regard to the properties on the Care and Learning residential estate, as detailed in Paragraph 3.1 of the report.
viii. AGREED, in relation to Kingussie High School, that information on a potential flood management strategy be presented to the Chairman of the Committee and the relevant Ward Business Meeting in the near future;
ix. AGREED that a briefing on the St Duthus School project, including the issues surrounding the lime trees on the site, be provided to Ward Members; and
x. AGREED that a briefing on the St Clement’s School project be provided to Ward Members and Councillor B McAllister.

6.  Change and Improvement Plan Update
Fios as Ùr mu Phlana Atharrachaidh agus Leasachaidh

There had been circulated Report No ECAS/03/15 dated 24 December 2014 by the Director of Adult Care, NHS Highland on behalf of Deborah Jones, Chief Operating Officer, NHS Highland, which updated Members on progress of the Change and Improvement Plan within the context of the emerging legislation and the impact on the Highland Partnership.

The Chairman explained that the final version of the Change and Improvement Plan would be presented to the Committee on 20 May 2015. At a meeting with NHS Highland on 12 January 2015, it had been agreed that three additional elements be incorporated, namely:-

1) a financial appendix showing the money being input by both the Council and NHS Highland and projecting that for the duration of the Plan;
2) the role of the District Partnerships in the Plan; and
3) a flow chart showing the points of contact within the Council, NHS Highland and District Partnerships and which Committees various issues would be reported to.

Some points raised previously by Members of the Committee would also be included in the final version of the Plan and there would be an opportunity to discuss it fully.

Thereafter, the Committee NOTED the progress in developing the Adult Services Change and Improvement Plan in the context of the emerging legislation.

7.  Integrated Care Fund
Maoin Cùraim Amalaichte

Declaration of Interest: Mr A Christie declared a non-financial interest in this item as General Manager of Inverness, Badenoch and Strathspey Citizens Advice Bureau but, having applied the test outlined in Paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3 of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, concluded that his interest did not preclude his involvement in the discussion.

There had been circulated Report No ECAS/04/15 dated 24 December 2014 by the Director of Adult Care, NHS Highland on behalf of Deborah Jones, Chief Operating Officer, NHS Highland, which informed Members that the Scottish Government had announced the release of integrated care funds along with specific guidance for Partnerships. NHS Highland, as lead agency for adult care, outlined this guidance in the report that had been submitted to the Health and Social Care Committee and set out the significant role of the Adult Services Commissioning Group and Improvement Groups.

The Director explained that, following publication of the report, the Strategic Commissioning Group had agreed two minor changes, namely:- 

1) that the second paragraph of section 5 of the appendix be amended as follows:-

“At the November meeting of the Scrutiny and Development Sub Committee, however, elected members advised that they wished to discuss and approve this plan. This is not a requirement of the Scottish Government, but in the spirit of Partnership it has been agreed that the Chief Executive of the Highland Council will jointly sign off the plan.”; and 

2) an additional recommendation inviting the Committee to comment on the implementation plans as they developed.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-  

• Members welcomed the opportunity to feed in to the developing implementation plans and the recognition of the partnership between the Council and NHS Highland by the joint signing off of the Integrated Care Plan;
• in relation to Appendix 1, in addition to the third and independent sector, it was requested that communities be included as a partner. There was a lot of excellent work being carried out in communities and it was important to recognise that and to embed it within the guidance;
• information was sought as to how the success of the Change Fund had been monitored and how it would be decided which current initiatives the Integrated Care Fund would support; and
• the Integrated Care Fund was not recurring funding and clarification was sought as to how it was proposed to maintain momentum and keep improving services.

In relation to sustainability of funding, the Chairman explained that more would be known following the next comprehensive spending review. With regard to the inclusion of communities, he referred to the bullet point in the appendix relating to “Involvement”. It was clear that this included communities but he acknowledged the need for emphasis.

Thereafter, the Committee:-

i. NOTED the allocation of the Integrated Care Fund;
ii. NOTED the role of the Adult Services Commissioning Group and the Improvement Groups in taking forward implementation plans; and
iii. AGREED to comment on the implementation plans as they developed.

8.  Sustainable School Estate Review – North Skye
Ath-sgrùdadh air Oighreachd Sgoile Seasmhach – An t-Eilean Sgitheanach a Tuath

Declaration of Interest: Mr A Christie declared a non-financial interest in this item as a Director of the Highland Small Communities Housing Trust but, having applied the test outlined in Paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3 of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, concluded that his interest did not preclude his involvement in the discussion.

Following conclusion of the statutory consultation process, there had been circulated Report No ECAS/05/15 dated 16 December 2014 by the Director of Care and Learning which set out a recommendation to improve the accommodation provision in North Skye through the establishment of a new amalgamated community Primary School on a new site in the village of Dunvegan, replacing the existing Dunvegan, Struan, Knockbreck and Edinbane Primary Schools. The appendices to the report had been circulated separately as Booklets A, B and C.

The Director explained that, whilst the Committee would consider the proposal and make a recommendation, decisions on the outcome of statutory consultations on school provision were a matter for the full Council. The timeline for call-in by Scottish Ministers would therefore commence from the Council meeting on 12 March 2015, not the date of the current Committee meeting, as indicated in the report and Booklet A. He also drew attention to a number of representations received following publication of the agenda. These were tabled for Members’ consideration.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-  

• information was sought on the legal status of the proposal by Edinbane Community Company to purchase or lease the building and grounds of Edinbane Primary School and that the Council continue to provide an education service there. If it could be done legally, the proposal was worthy of consideration and it was suggested that the decision on the outcome of the statutory consultation be deferred until the Autumn meeting of the Committee to allow discussions to take place with Edinbane Community Company. Members also queried whether there could be a legal challenge if the Council did not give the proposal due consideration;
• concern was expressed that the report and appendices did not take account of the economic impact on local communities. The evidence was focused on population growth or reduction rather than the wider impact on jobs and it was highlighted that one of the issues raised in the responses to the consultation was the reduction in local employment;
• it was disappointing that healthy options in terms of travelling to school would not be available for the pupils of Edinbane, Knockbreck and Struan Primary Schools and it was requested that this be taken into account for local pupils when considering sites in Dunvegan;
• one of the potential sites for the proposed new school was outwith the village on a single track road with no pavement and the importance of ensuring safe access and safe routes to school was emphasised;
• information was sought on what consultation had been carried out with the local community regarding the potential sites, particularly given the impact on traffic flow through the village and the proposed use of the school as a community hub;
• the closure of schools, however small, could be devastating to local communities;
• Knockbreck Primary School was in one of the most remote parts of Skye and parents had wanted it “red-lined”;
• Edinbane led the way in terms of sustainable communities and the proposal by the Community Company was forward thinking and dynamic;
• the route of travel for many parents in Edinbane and Knockbreck was Portree so sending their children to Portree or MacDiarmid Primary School would be more appropriate. Similarly, many parents in Struan travelled to Carbost and the schools shared a Head Teacher. Local Members had clearly expressed their views on catchment areas from the outset and had been assured that zoning for Struan Primary School would be shared between Carbost and Dunvegan Primary Schools;
• in relation to Table 2 in Appendix 7, bringing the existing schools up to A/A standard had never been presented to parents as an option. Various alternatives could still be considered and more engagement with parents was necessary;
• it was difficult to justify building a new school in Dunvegan when parents had stated that they would not choose to send their children there and information was sought on how parents’ freedom of choice would be affected;
• thanks were expressed to Caledonian Economics Limited for their work on the options appraisal exercise and for keeping Local Members informed;
• it was clear that Dunvegan needed a new school and that was welcomed. However, it should not be to the detriment of the other three communities. There was strong opposition to the amalgamation of the four schools, as expressed in the representations, at the public meeting in Dunvegan and to Local Members;
• many parents felt that the consultation had not been carried out as fairly as it could have. Reference was made to the amalgamation of Conon and Maryburgh Primary Schools, about which some parents still felt aggrieved, and the importance of proper consultation was emphasised. At one point there had been talk of the Maryburgh Community running the school and it was essential that all options were considered before reaching a decision;
• an explanation of the financial position, and whether the proposal was a savings measure or for educational benefit, was requested;
• only three pupils currently attended Knockbreck Primary School, which counteracted the case made by some parents. If a school had to close, it was suggested that it be Knockbreck and that it be amalgamated with Edinbane Primary School; and
• concern was expressed regarding the distance from Knockbreck to Dunvegan and it was argued that the journey time of 28 minutes specified in the report was an underestimate. It could take up to 45 minutes each way; longer in inclement weather. This was a long journey for children of four to five years of age and there were no adults on the bus other than the driver. If the recommendations were approved, it was requested that discussions take place with parents regarding a better transport system.

In response to the issues raised, it was explained that:-  

• in relation to the proposal by Edinbane Community Company, the Council would be happy to enter in to discussions regarding the lease or purchase of the school building and grounds. However, the issue was not who owned the building. Closing the four schools that were the subject of the consultation and building a new school in Dunvegan offered the greatest educational benefit for the children of North Skye and, on that basis, the recommendation remained the same;
• the proposal was based on a new school on a new site, as detailed in the consultation. Subject to approval of the recommendations by the Committee and the Council on 12 March 2015, detailed land negotiations would follow and engagement would continue to be take place with the local community. Safe routes to school was a key issue and would also be explored in detail once a decision had been reached;
• in terms of Scottish legislation, a community could not provide education, such as the “free schools” in England. It was a matter for the local authority or an independent registered organisation;
• sustainable education provision had to be provided within available budgets. However, any decision on school provision had to be based on educational benefit and that was the basis of the recommendation; and
• with regard to travel arrangements/journey times, the same issues existed throughout Highland. The aspiration was that children would not spend longer than 30 minutes on school transport but that could not be delivered for every child. It would be challenging in North Skye but the issues had been and would continue to be examined.

The Chairman, seconded by Ms M Smith, then MOVED the recommendations in the report.

Mr D Millar spoke of his intention to move an amendment as follows:-

i. discontinue education provision at the existing Dunvegan, Struan, Knockbreck and Edinbane Primary Schools; ii. establish a new Primary School in Dunvegan;
iii. re-zone MacDiarmid catchment area to include the existing Edinbane area; and
iv. consult with the Struan community to agree a catchment boundary with Carbost and Dunvegan Primary Schools.

However, it was explained that such an amendment would not be competent as a new statutory consultation would require to be carried out on the issue of catchment areas, including Carbost and MacDiarmid Primary Schools as well as the four schools that were the subject of the report. It was suggested that recommendation iii) could be amended accordingly.

During further discussion, Local Members stated that they were not comfortable agreeing the recommendations. Whilst it was recognised that parents could make placing requests to schools outwith their catchment areas, they were then liable for transporting their children to school.

The Chairman emphasised the importance of complying with the legislation on statutory consultations and suggested a short recess to allow Members and officers to consider the legalities of any potential solution.

The meeting adjourned at 11.20 am and reconvened at 11.30 am.

Following the recess, the Director explained that it was proposed to add an additional recommendation to initiate a new consultation to consider dual zoning for any family who might wish to consider attending Carbost or MacDiarmid Primary Schools.

*Thereafter, an assurance having been provided that the consultation had been carried out in accordance with the legislation, the Committee AGREED TO RECOMMEND to the Council that it:-

i. discontinue education provision at the existing Dunvegan, Struan, Knockbreck and Edinbane Primary Schools; ii. establish a new amalgamated community Primary School for North West Skye on a new site in the village of Dunvegan;
iii. combine the existing school catchments of Dunvegan, Struan, Knockbreck and Edinbane Schools to form the catchment of the new amalgamated Primary School; and
iv. initiate a new consultation to consider dual zoning for any family who may wish to consider attending Carbost or MacDiarmid Primary Schools.

9.  Facilities Management Update
Fios as Ùr mu Rianachd Ghoireasan

There had been circulated Report No ECAS/06/15 dated 16 December 2014 by the Director of Care and Learning which set out the proposed terms of reference for a review of the Facilities Management model.

In discussion, support was expressed for the review of the model, and for the consultative approach being taken by the Council. However, attention was drawn to potential difficulties arising from the loss of janitorial staff knowledge. In response to a suggestion that this should be captured and recorded before the new Facilities Management model was introduced, an assurance was given that operations manuals, guidance notes, and standardised processes and procedures would be put in place.

Following further discussion, the Committee:-

i. NOTED that the roll-out of the original Facilities Management Model was on hold across the Highlands; data was being gathering on the resources required and the costs involved; this information would be used to inform the revised model;
ii. NOTED that a member of staff had been recruited in Skye prior to the review commencing and was currently involved in carrying out the audit work outlined above;
iii. AGREED the terms of reference for the review of the Facilities Management Model;
iv. AGREED that community groups would be included in the review of facilities management, where feasible; and
v. AGREED that every effort would be made to include qualitative as well as quantitative data in the review.

10.  Children’s Services
Seirbheisean Chloinne

There had been circulated as item 10(i) on the agenda Report No ECAS/07/15 by the Director of Care and Learning which provided an update on the performance framework for Children’s Services. Members were advised that this report had been presented to the NHS Highland Health and Social Care Committee; that information was not yet available to populate all the performance figures, but would be forthcoming; and that discussions were ongoing with NHS Highland to resolve issues around the publication of sensitive data.

There had also been circulated as item 10(ii) on the agenda Report No ECAS/08/15 dated 23 December 2014 by the Director of Care and Learning, comprising an assurance report on the Lead Agency delivery of Children’s Services, the purpose of which was to provide assurance to NHS Highland in relation to services commissioned and delivered through Highland Council. This report would also be presented to the Highland Health and Social Care Committee. Each assurance report would focus on different elements of the commissioned service, as well as containing the core elements of performance management, exception reports and finance, with the specific areas to be reported agreed between the Child Health Commissioner and the Head of Health.

The Committee AGREED to consider both circulated reports together.

Mrs M Duncan reported that NHS Highland had considered and debated the Assurance Report closely. Whilst the exceptions report was welcomed, the Highland Health and Social Care Committee had not been able to take assurance from the main report. There were gaps in the data and progress against many indicators was shown as red. In addition, information was needed as to whether improvements were being made. Mrs Duncan stated that the relationship between expenditure and outcomes had to be made clear. The Chair concurred with these points and advised that he was working to identify the owners of the data so that the Council could focus its requests for information.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-  

• while Members were disappointed that progress with improving breast feeding rates was slow, it was anticipated that the appointment of feeding support officers, in post since January 2015, would make a difference; the contract would be in place for one year but would be reviewed after 9 months;
• delays in accommodating children in a place of permanence were a matter of concern and ways to expedite this were being looked at with partners; the numbers involved, however, were small and this impacted disproportionately on statistics; and
• while it was suggested that some targets should be more ambitious, particularly in areas of concern or where more rapid results were sought, and a report to a future committee, reviewing targets, was requested, the Director advised that the targets were agreed as part of the partnership process and, whilst Member views on stretch targets were welcome, the matter would need to be discussed with partners.

The Director having commented that performance in Highland was often better than elsewhere in Scotland, the Committee:-

i. NOTED the performance information and the issues raised in the assurance report and that revisions to targets could only be taken forward through the partnership process; and
ii. AGREED that future reports include figures from other authorities for comparison purposes.

11.  Social Work Stage 2 Complaints Exception Report
Aithisg Eisgeachd Ghearanan Ìre 2 Obair Shòisealta

There had been circulated Report No ECAS/09/15 dated 16 December 2014 by the Director of Care and Learning which provided context and analysis of delays to responding to stage 2 complaints received by the Care and Learning Service and responded to under the Social Work Complaints Directions. Members were asked to note the complexity of complaints received in the current year and the actions proposed to give greater priority to their resolution.

The Chair having commented that, of the proposed solutions listed, a dedicated customer services officer post was key to achieving improved performance, the Committee:-

i. NOTED the position regarding performance in relation to social work and social care complaints received by the Care and Learning Service;
ii. NOTED the measures taken to date to deal with the position; and
iii. APPROVED the proposed solutions with a view to improving performance.

12.  Mental Health Officer Service
Seirbheis Oifigear Slàinte Inntinn

There had been circulated Report No ECAS/10/15 dated 24 December 2014 by the Director of Care and Learning which provided an update on the performance, development and impact of the Mental Health Officer (MHO) Service within the Council and also introduced a presentation. A copy of the presentation given by the Manager, MHO Service, was tabled.

In his presentation, the MHO Manager provided information on the qualifications and training required of MHOs, and the legislation which underpinned their day to day work and their integration with partners, in particular the judicial system and health professionals. He also drew attention to changes anticipated from the Scottish Government’s current review of the Mental Health (Care and Treatment) (Scotland) Act, 2003, including changes to the role of MHOs and the shift in ethos towards the least restrictive option being taken, and that interventions should view the welfare of the patient as the prime concern. The proposed improvements were innovative and ambitious and would be challenging; the Service was developing well.

In response to points raised, the MHO Manager acknowledged that there were resource issues which led to pressures such as delayed discharge and a waiting list; people requiring MHO services were responded to in order of priority.

The Chair having emphasised to Members the importance of having a Power of Attorney in place, the Committee NOTED the development of the Mental Health Officer Service in the Council since integration of services with NHS Highland.

13.  Community Learning and Development
Ionnsachadh agus Leasachadh Coimhearsnachd

Declarations of Interest:

Ms J Douglas and Mr K Gowans declared non-financial interests in this item as Directors of High Life Highland but, having applied the test outlined in Paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3 of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, concluded that their interests did not preclude their involvement in the discussion.

In addition, Mr K Gowans declared a financial interest on the basis that his wife was an employee of High Life Highland but, having applied the test outlined in Paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3 of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, concluded that his interest did not preclude his involvement

There had been circulated Report No ECAS/11/15 dated 24 December 2014 by the Director of Care and Learning which informed Members about statutory responsibilities in relation to Community Learning and Development (CLD) and the strategic planning structure being developed by the Community Planning Partnership, involving District Partnerships.

New legislative regulations required the Council to have a 3-year CLD plan in place by September 2015. The development of the plan was being driven forward by senior officers from partner agencies, taking account of the SHANARI wellbeing indicators.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-  

• the proposals were welcomed and support expressed for strengthening community ability and resilience; the development of the Plan should begin at the grass roots level;
• there was a need for capacity building in communities – community capacity and resilience needed to be assessed and ways found to build on and link up existing skill sets and initiatives; working with partners was integral to this;
• the proposal to build on the existing nine District Partnerships might result in areas too unwieldy for true local CLD; consideration should be given to subdividing these districts as required, including reflecting smaller areas such as Associated School Groups (ASGs);
• attention was drawn to the “Charrette” process as an effective means for engaging with communities;
• development of the local response could also usefully be considered at Ward Business Forums.

The Director having highlighted that the Council would need to prepare for a CLD inspection, the Committee NOTED:-

i. the developing local response to the statutory responsibilities in relation to Community Learning and Development, including the strategic planning structure being developed by the Community Planning Partnership, involving District Partnerships; and
ii. that further reports would be brought to the Committee prior to the approval of the Community Learning and Development Plan by the 1 September 2015 deadline.

14.  Developing Scotland’s Young Workforce
A’ Leasachadh Luchd-obrach Òg na h-Alba

Declaration of Interest: Mr K Gowans declared a financial interest in this item as an employee of UHI but, having applied the test outlined in Paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3 of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, concluded that his interest did not preclude his involvement in the discussion.

There had been circulated Report No ECAS/12/15 dated 5 January 2015 by the Director of Care and Learning which set out for Members the key messages of the “Developing Scotland’s Young Workforce” report and the direction of travel for the authority to ensure its successful implementation in Highland.

The Chairman welcomed the initiative, which would gear education more closely to the needs of employers. This would be achieved by cross-working between the Council, the NHS, UHI, other partners, employers, education professionals, parents and pupils. The Council Leader provided further detail regarding the aims and benefits of the approach, and the actions being taken to achieve these, including the development at UHI’s Inverness Campus of the Highland Science Skills Academy. The Leader pointed out that there had previously been a mismatch between the needs of employers and the skill sets of school leavers. Having looked at the actions taken by countries such as Norway, the aim was to enable young people to be better prepared for the world of work. It was hoped that this would in turn generate inward investment, attract new businesses and bring higher wages, as well as improving young people’s ability to compete in the global market across a range of economic sectors. The Highland Science Skills Academy was currently being developed on a hub-and-spokes model, with an emphasis on outreach, including to areas beyond the Highlands. It was hoped that this new approach as a whole would bring better prospects for the future.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-  

• unemployment had a long-term negative impact on young people’s income and health;
• there was a need to tackle a range of inequalities in accessing work; the Council should actively campaign towards the eradication of gender stereotyping in employment and the gender pay gap; Women at Work’s activities in promoting STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) were available to all schools;
• the Youth Convener should be invited to participate in the discussions about implementing the recommendations relating to developing Scotland’s young workforce; and
• it was important to ensure that careers guidance and Personal and Social Education teachers’ training was up to date.

The Leader stated that the Council had a good record in addressing the gender pay gap - the ethos of the Science Skills Academy would be to support all children in gaining access to the science and technology labour markets. He also gave an assurance that the Council worked closely with partners to promote the Care and Health sector as a career choice. Further information would be provided to Mrs Duncan outwith the meeting.

After discussion, the Committee:-

i. NOTED the key aspects of the report;
ii. NOTED that further details about the Highland Science Skills Academy hub to be opened in Inverness would be made available in the near future;
iii. AGREED the proposed direction of travel the authority would take for implementing the Developing Scotland’s Young Workforce report;
iv. AGREED that the further points raised in discussion as above would be taken on board; and
v. NOTED that progress would be evaluated to ensure that the actions being taken were fit for purpose.

15.  Internal Audit Reports
Aithisgean In-Sgrùdaidh

There had been circulated Report No ECAS/13/15 dated 18 December 2014 by the Director of Care and Learning which provided an overview and update in relation to two internal audit reports relating to Inspection of Equipment in Schools and School Off-site Excursions.

The Committee NOTED progress in relation to the agreed management action arising from the internal audit reports.

16.  Complaints Review Committee Outcomes
Toraidhean Comataidh Ath-sgrùdaidh nan Gearanan

Declaration of Interest: Mr A Christie declared a non-financial interest in this item as General Manager of Inverness, Badenoch and Strathspey Citizens Advice Bureau but, having applied the test outlined in Paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3 of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, concluded that his interest did not preclude his involvement in the discussion.

There had been circulated joint Reports No ECAS/14/15, No ECAS/15/15 and No ECAS/16/15 dated 24 December 2014 and 5 January 2015 by the Depute Chief Executive/Director of Corporate Development and the Director of Care and Learning which set out the findings and recommendations following Complaints Review Committees held on 7 October 2014, 30 October 2014 and 5 November 2015 respectively.

The Committee NOTED that the Complaints Review Committee had met to consider these cases, together with its findings and recommendations.

17.  Appointments to Complaints Review Committee
Cur an Dreuchd gu Comataidh Ath-sgrùdaidh nan Gearanan

The Committee AGREED the appointment of the following independent panel members to the Complaints Review Committee to May 2019:-  

• Beryl Seaman (Chairman)
• Uisdean Maclennan

18.  Minutes
Geàrr-chunntas

The Committee NOTED, and APPROVED, where necessary, the following Minutes of Meetings:-

i .Highland Alcohol and Drugs Partnership Strategy Group – 13 May 2014;
ii. Annual General Meeting of the Local Negotiating Committee for Teaching Staff – 7 November 2014;
iii. Ordinary Meeting of the Local Negotiating Committee for Teaching Staff – 7 November 2014;
iv. Adult Services Development and Scrutiny Sub-Committee – 21 November 2014;
v. Special Meeting of Duncraig Trust Scheme Sub-Committee – 26 November 2014;
vi. Culture and Leisure Contracts Scrutiny Sub-Committee – 27 November 2014; and
vii. Criminal Justice Sub-Committee – 10 December 2014.

With regard to (i) above, following a question relating to funding for preventative spend within Children’s Services, the Committee also NOTED that the Partnership had recently appointed a new chair and was taking stock of its current spend to ensure this was meeting priorities.

With regard to (iv) above, the Committee AGREED that information on the actions arising, as recorded in the relevant minutes, would be issued to Members by the end of the following week.

The meeting concluded at 12.40 pm.