Agendas, reports and minutes

Present

Mr D Millar, Ms J Campbell, Mr A Duffy, Mr G Farlow (Substitute), Mr M Finlayson, Mr H Fraser, Mr L Fraser (Substitute), Mrs A MacLean, Ms L Munro, Mr I Renwick, Mr G Ross, Ms J Slater, Mr D Hendry, Dr D Alston

Non-Members also present:

Mr A Baxter, Mr B Clark, Mr R Green, Mr J Grey, Mr R Laird, Mr G MacKenzie, Mr T Prag, Mr A Rhind, Mr G Rimell, Mr J Stone

Officials in attendance:

Ms M Morris, Depute Chief Executive
Ms C McDiarmid, Head of Policy and Performance, Chief Executive’s Office
Ms R MacKinnon, Equal Opportunities Officer, Chief Executive’s Office
Mr J Bruce, Elections Manager, Chief Executive’s Office
Mr S Wardlaw, Ward Manager, Chief Executive’s Office
Mrs C King, Health Improvement Policy Manager, Chief Executive’s Office
Ms F Palin, Head of Social Care, Health and Social Care Service
Mr K Walker, Policy Officer, Health Improvement, Chief Executive’s Office
Mrs R Moir, Principal Administrator, Chief Executive’s Office
Ms L Lee, Committee Administrator, Chief Executive’s Office

Also in attendance:

Chief Superintendent J Innes, Police Scotland, Highland and Islands Divisional Commander
Mr S Hay, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, Local Senior Officer for the Highland Area
Mr G MacLeod, Scottish Ambulance Service
Dr M E M Foxley, Board Member, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Board
Mr R Iffla, Board Member, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Board
Mr I Ross, Board Member, Scottish Police Authority

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 D Millar in the Chair

1. Apologies for Absence
Liesgeulan

Apologies for absence were intimated on behalf of Ms J Douglas, Mrs D MacKay, Ms G Ross, Mr R Saxon and Dr A Sinclair.

2. Declarations of Interest
Foillseachaidhean Com-pàirt

The Committee NOTED the following declarations of interest:

• Items 10, 13 and 14:  Ms J Campbell and Mrs A MacLean (Non-Financial)

Public Engagement
Conaltradh ris a’ Phoball

3. Highland Elections – Encouraging Participation / Increasing Turnout
Taghaidhean na Gàidhealtachd – A’ Brosnachadh Com-pàirteachas / A’ Meudachadh Frithealadh

There had been circulated Report No. CPE-42-13 (166kb pdf) dated 26 November 2013 by the Chief Executive providing Members with an update of the actions to encourage participation in elections, particularly for young people.  The report provided information on a number of ongoing workstreams to encourage participation in elections in Highland, including: the recent mock referendum on Scottish Independence held at Nairn Academy; the role of democracy ambassadors in schools and the findings of the December 2012 Hansard Society survey into interest and engagement in politics – young people in Highland consistently showed greater understanding of, enthusiasm for and participation in politics than the UK average.  The report also advised that the timescales for reviewing polling districts and polling stations had changed from 4 yearly to 5 yearly.  The review in Highland had commenced on 15 November 2013 and it was intended to bring a report on the review to the meeting of the Council on 30 October 2014.

The Elections Manager summarised the report.  Feedback would be brought to a future meeting on the outcomes of the school pupil appointments as “Observers” at the Caithness Landward and Black Isle by-elections.  With reference to the forthcoming Scottish referendum, Members discussed ways in which information could be provided directly to school pupils on the arguments for and against Scottish Independence and discussed the pros and cons of Members speaking within schools - this could help to improve engagement in future elections, as well as the referendum.    Members were advised that the matter would need to be raised with the Director of Education, Culture and Sport in the first instance, and possibly with the Association of Directors of Education.  Information needed to be provided to all age groups, not just young people.

In response to Member comment that it would be useful to hold a mock election in an area of deprivation, as such areas generally had low turn-out, the Elections Manager advised that Nairn Academy had been chosen because there had been additional officer support available; given coming workloads, there was a very tight window for elections office staff to have the capacity to arrange a further event.

The Committee NOTED:

i.   the ongoing workstreams to encourage participation in elections in
    Highland;
ii.  that feedback would be brought to a future meeting on the outcomes of
    school pupil appointments as “Observers” at the Landward Caithness and
    Black Isle by-elections; and
iii. that suggestions that Members from both sides of the Scottish
    Independence argument should visit schools to present their respective
    views to young people would need to be discussed in the first instance
    with the Director of Education, Culture and Sport.

4. Highland Public Services Partnership Performance Board
Bòrd Dèanadais Com-pàirteachas Seirbheisean Poblach na Gàidhealtachd

There had been circulated and were NOTED minutes of the meeting of the Highland Public Services Partnership Performance Board held on 6 June 2013 (181kb pdf).

Community Safety
Sàbhailteachd Phoblach

Preliminaries – Co-locational Control Centre

The Council Leader advised that the Council had been in contact with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) with a proposal that the Council explore the possibility of establishing a joint, co-locational control centre together with a joint emergency response room in Inverness, with the SFRS, Police Scotland, the National Health Service (NHS) and Highland Council.  The co-locational control centre would support the objectives of community planning relating to shared services and joint working.  Public confidence would be increased as staff would have local knowledge, and a better service would be provided across all of the Community Planning Partners’ operations.  Inverness was a good place to host the service.  Following the SFRS’ agreement that the Council take the idea forward, a fairly detailed proposal had been submitted, with the Council offering to assist in finding solutions to any difficulties in implementing the proposals.  A response had not been received to date, and the Leader would write again to the Chairman of the SFRS and the Chief Fire Officer. 

The Committee NOTED the information given and that Members would be kept informed of progress.

5. Improvement Plan for Member Scrutiny and Engagement
Plana Leasachaidh airson Sgrùdadh is Conaltradh Bhall

There had been circulated Report No. CPE-44-13 (285kb pdf) dated 18 November 2013 by the Head of Policy and Performance showing that good progress was being made with the Committee’s Improvement Plan.  It also advised that the review of Community Planning arrangements was underway, including a review of community safety arrangements, with the new arrangements expected to be in place by the end of March 2014.  Recent engagement with the Police and Fire & Rescue Service included the involvement of local senior officers in Ward Forums as part of the consultation on local plans and ward plans; Police and Fire & Rescue performance reports were also being brought to Area Committees.  A self-assessment workshop had been arranged for Members on 11 December 2013 in order to prepare for the inspection of local Police and Fire & Rescue Services and their engagement with Members.  Members from both this and the Adult and Children’s Services Committee had been invited to attend the workshop and to complete a preparatory survey.

Following a summary of the report by the Head of Policy and Performance, Dr M Foxley, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) Board member, gave a verbal update with regard to SFRS Board discussions relating to the siting of command and control rooms across Scotland, of which there would be three: one located at Johnstone, near Glasgow, with four options under consideration for the siting of the other two.  A decision was expected to be made at the end of January 2014, and would take account of capital and revenue costs, and staff transfer and recruitment considerations.  Locating the control centre in Inverness would support closer working of the emergency services – the control centres for the ambulance service and the police control rooms were already in Inverness.  Siting the facility in Inverness would also be prudent given the expected growth in the offshore renewables industry.  He was supportive of the Council writing to the Chairman of the SFRS and the Chief Fire Officer to emphasise these points.

Mr I Ross of the Scottish Police Authority (SPA) reported that the SPA broadly welcomed the proposals.  A number of IT infrastructure issues would need to be resolved, but it was his understanding that there was support for looking at what could be done in Highland.  Discussions would continue with the Council at senior officer level.

The Committee NOTED:

i.   the progress being made with the Improvement Plan for the Committee as
    set out in Appendix 1 to the report;
ii.  that arrangements have been made for a pilot self-assessment workshop
    designed around the proposed inspection criteria and that this would be
    held on 11 December 2013; Members would be sent a survey in advance of
    the workshop as part of the self-assessment; and
iii. the information given by Dr Foxley and Mr Ross. 

6. Fire and Rescue Service Reports
Aithisgean na Seirbheis Smàlaidh is Teasairginn

i. Quarterly Performance Report
Aithisg Dèanadais Ràitheil

There had been circulated Report No. CPE-45-13 (75kb pdf) dated 15 November 2013 by the Local Senior Officer for Fire and Rescue, together with the Quarterly Performance Report (1988kb pdf) (QPR) for 1 July to 30 September 2013, detailing Fire and Rescue Service performance across a range of Intervention, Prevention and Protection activities in line with set target delivery for 2013/14.  An updated QPR, giving corrected Retained Fire-fighter figures in Inverness, Badenoch and Strathspey, was tabled.

The report provided background information on a number of performance targets, including home fire safety visits, legislative fire safety audits of known high and very high risk premises, malicious fires, false alarms, station hours available, and numbers of injuries.  It highlighted the reduction in community risk resulting from carrying out activities specified in the performance report, and from analysing outcomes and performance, and drew attention to engagement events and operational activities as set out in full in the QPR.

The Local Senior Officer for Fire and Rescue summarised the report, commenting on each of the performance indicators, and provided information on the Scottish Wildfire Forum, recruitment activity, the importance of employers releasing Retained Fire-fighters from work when required, and the reporting of accidents/near misses.

In response to questions relating to promoting recruitment and childcare etc., he provided information on the steps being taken to increase the numbers of fire-fighters, including increasing the overall numbers of female fire-fighters.  Whilst recognising the barriers to be overcome, such as child care provision and the standard of facilities at some stations, the Service was exploring a number of options locally and nationally.  In discussion, the suggestion was put forward that staff working for public bodies such as the Council and the Health service could be made aware of opportunities for Retained Fire-fighter via their employers.

He gave an assurance that there were no proposals for closure of any stations, or compulsory redundancies at this time, and that there would be no decrease in the training budget.  Training would be carried out locally wherever possible – this was more cost effective and reduced the burden on retained fire-fighters and their employers in terms of time required away from home.  He also provided information on availability figures; the rollout of water rescue training; and work with the NHS to protect the most vulnerable.

The Committee NOTED service delivery and performance contained within the report and updated QPR for Quarter 2, 2013-2014, and the information given.

ii. Ward Consultations Sessions and Progress Update on Local Fire and Rescue Plan 2014-17
Seiseanan Co-chomhairleachaidh Uàird agus Fios as Ùr mu Adhartas air Plana Ionadail Smàlaidh is Teasairginn 2014-17

There had been circulated Report No. CPE-46-13 (86kb pdf) dated 15 November 2013 by the Local Senior Officer for Fire and Rescue providing an update on the recent Ward consultations sessions, which formed part of the wider consultation on the creation of the Local Fire and Rescue Plan 2014-17.  SFRS staff had presented information on operational activity and trends since 2009 in relation to a number of areas including: house fires, deliberate fires, road traffic collisions, malicious calls and false alarms.  Whilst the attendance at Ward forums had been mixed, the SFRS welcomed the opportunity to engage and consult with the public, Community Councils and elected Members.  Feedback would inform the draft Local Fire and Rescue Plan for 2014-17.

Members welcomed the opportunity provided by the Ward Forum sessions.  It was disappointing that attendance had been mixed when considerable effort had been made to publicise the sessions and to support people to attend.  However, although attendance had in some cases been low, the views put forward had been valuable.  Public engagement might improve as people became more familiar with the new arrangements.  The Local Senior Officer advised that the Local Plan would be reviewed every three years, and the Operational Plan annually, allowing a more detailed examination of local targets and performance management.

Dr M Foxley and Mr R Iffla made final comments relating to the benefits of local training and that the recruitment of women was taken seriously.  The Chairman having thanked them for attending the meeting, the Committee NOTED:

i.  the progress against this consultation update as well as the wider
   consultation process to support the creation of the Highland Local Fire and
   Rescue Plan for 2014-17; and
ii. that a draft of the Local Fire and Rescue Plan for 2014-17 would be
   presented at the next Committee meeting. 

7. Police Reports
Aithisgean Poilis

i. Performance Against the Local Policing Plan and the Development of the Next Iteration of the Highland Policing Plans
Dèanadas mu choinneamh a’ Phlana Obair-phoileas Ionadail agus Leasachadh na h-Ath Aithris de Phlanaichean Obair-phoileas na Gàidhealtachd

There had been circulated Report No. CPE-47-13 (328kb pdf) dated 8 November 2013 by the Highlands and Islands Divisional Commander providing an update on the progress in relation to the objectives outlined in the Highland 2013/14 Policing Plan and the development of the next iteration of the Highland Local and Ward policing plans.  Performance was being maintained, with overall crime figures continuing to fall.  In particular, Class 1 violent crime had reduced by 48% from 233 to 144 for the year to date.  The series of Police and Fire Plan Ward Forums was now complete, and while attendance had varied, the engagement from Councillors, Community Councils and the public had been positive.  Initial indications were that the majority of Ward Plan priorities remained extant.  Police Scotland had also carried out a survey of residents in Highland, the results of which would also feed into the Highland Local and Ward Policing Plans; draft versions of the Plans would be presented to a future Committee.

The Divisional Commander summarised the report, which provided information in accordance with the existing Policing Plan.  With the new Plan being compiled, he asked Members to say what they wanted to see the Police doing, and how they wanted this measured, in order to fulfil their scrutiny role and influence the shape of Policing in the Highlands.

In discussion, concerns were repeatedly raised at the perceived drop in the number of Community Beat Officers and that such Officers did not appear to be being replaced when they left.  In response, the Divisional Commander stated that there were currently 673 Police Officers in the Highlands compared with 675 at 31 March 2013.  A further two officers would take up posts before Christmas.  Numbers of Officers in Highland had therefore not changed.  What had changed, however, was the model by which the officers were deployed.  Specialist teams had been set up, which provided support to all officers in the Highlands – this was a cultural change.  He also commented that the role of Community Beat Officer tended to be filled by high calibre officers, who were then attracted to other jobs.  It was important to use good officers for this role, and a turnover in Beat Officers was a consequence of this.  As Police Scotland, overall, had its full complement of officers, replacements would be provided through redistributing existing officers.  This was an ongoing process.  He gave an assurance that the culture of community based policing in Highland was recognised and would not change.

In response to points raised, the Divisional Commander requested that Members bring to his attention instances where Community Council meetings had not been attended by a Police Officer; and explained the approach taken to “stop and search” activity – namely that this was largely intelligence-led.  Fewer drug dealers were being caught but it was not known if this was because there were fewer dealers, or because the Police were failing to detect them – this was being investigated.  It was believed that Stop and Search activity contributed to falls in levels of street violence and weapons offences.

Mr I Ross of the Scottish Police Authority (SPA) reported that Stop and Search was being scrutinised by the SPA.  The extent to which it was used varied according to circumstances.  It was for the Committee to decide what it wanted the SPA to look at, to hold Police Scotland to account.  The SPA intended to review the Policing Plan in the coming months; this would provide the Committee with the opportunity to influence policing – it could promote local policing for example.

The Council Convener emphasised that road safety was a high priority in the Highlands and that most communities would welcome a robust approach to speeding and drink driving; community policing was also of prime importance.

Following discussion, the Committee NOTED the information given and that:

i.   the progress made against the objectives set within the Highland Local
    Policing Plan 2013-2014;
ii.  a draft of the 2014/17 Local Policing Plans would be presented to Members
    at the next Committee meeting; and
iii. Police officers could be invited to attend Ward Business meetings should
    Members wish to further discuss the draft Local Policing Plans.

ii. Highland Local Police Area – Road Policing
Sgìre Ionadail Poilis na Gàidhealtachd – Obair-phoileas Rathaid

There had been circulated Report No. CPE-48-13 (377kb pdf) dated 8 November 2013 by the Highlands and Islands Divisional Commander providing information on the results of the road policing enforcement activities taking place within Highland; a breakdown of who was committing what offences; a specific analysis of motorcycle accidents; and general statistics on road casualties.

The report provided information on detections of offences by age, gender, and offence type.  The objectives of the current Highland Local Policing Plan focussed on drink/drug driving, mobile phone and seatbelt offences.  However, as speeding was a contributory factor in a significant number of road traffic accidents, measures to address speeding could be included in the next Highland Local Plan.  Statistics were also provided on the number of motorcycle accidents and fatalities since 2010/11, the places and roads in the Highlands where the highest number of such accidents had occurred, and other factors such as time of day and weather conditions, engine size, and age of driver.  In over 75% of fatal accidents, the motorcycle rider had been found to have been at fault.  The report also highlighted an unexpected increase in the number of road casualty figures for the year to date, following a reduction over the past four years.  The Police were fully committed to supporting the Community Planning Partnership in reducing the number of fatalities and casualties in Highland.  The report also set out an overview of the road safety initiatives taken in Highland since 1 April 2013.  Road safety was a priority in Highland.

Prior to discussion of the report, the Council Leader welcomed the decision by the Scottish Transport Minister to pilot a 50pmh speed limit on the A9 for Heavy Goods Vehicles.

The Divisional Commander summarised the main points in the report.  Policing of the roads had increased and it was hoped that the downward trend in road casualty figures would resume.  Education and engagement activities would continue, in particular speaking to motorcyclists.  He drew attention to the breakdown of motoring offences which showed that, contrary to public perception, young drivers were considerably less likely to be guilty of offences than people in age groups between 21 and 60.  Education needed to be targeted accordingly.

In discussion, Members expressed concern at the increase in road casualties but were hopeful that the overall downward trend would continue.  In response to questions, the Divisional Commander provided a range of information, including on how drink and drug driving testing was carried out, patterns in motor cycle accidents, and that some accidents happened for no apparent reason.  Much work was carried out by a variety of agencies behind the scenes, including in road engineering, education and enforcement; the overall trend was a reduction in incidents.  He concurred with Member comments that people who had ridden a motorcycle in their youth were often taking it up again in later life and buying a large machine.  Officers were trying to target this group and talk to them.

Following further discussion, the Committee NOTED:

i.   the road policing enforcement activities taking place in Highland; the
    demographics of those being detected for road traffic offences; and the
    current level of road casualties within Highland;
ii.  the analysis of motorcycle accidents and the initiatives to reduce accidents
    within Highland; and
iii. that statistics on accidents involving pedal cyclists would be provided to a
    future meeting.

The Committee also AGREED that objectives / activities to reduce speeding be included in the next iteration of the Highland Local Policing Plan.

iii. Highland Local Police Area – Capacity and Capability Update
Sgìre Poilis Ionadail na Gàidhealtachd – Fios as Ùr mu Mheud agus Comas

There had been circulated Report No. CPE-49-13 (157kb pdf) dated 20 November 2013 by the Highlands and Islands Divisional Commander providing an update on the ongoing reviews within Police Scotland and the Division.  The report provided information on a revised Area Command Structure, which reduced the current Area Commands in the Highlands from five to three; changes to the Division’s property portfolio including further co-location of services within other Public Service offices; realignment of police teams to provide for local policing and pools of expertise in specific areas such as investigation of serious and organised crime; and proposals to pilot a revised structure for Community Planning Partnership meetings, early in 2014.  The report also provided an update on progress in relation to traffic warden provision; and gave brief summaries of the Police Scotland programme of organisational change, and the position with regard to voluntary redundancy/early retirement in Highland.

The Committee having AGREED that discussion on Traffic Wardens take place under item 8ii below, the Divisional Commander drew attention to the main points in the report.

In response to points raised in discussion, the Divisional Commander advised that work was ongoing on the possible co-location of Police with Social Work in Thurso; that the post of full time Inspector based in Portree would be filled; and that proposals to establish a hostel at Fort William were not currently being progressed by Police Scotland.  In this latter regard, Mr I Ross of the Scottish Police Authority (SPA) reported that the SPA was developing an estates strategy under which the issue of hostels was still live.

Members again raised concerns regarding the reduction in Community Beat Officers.  The Divisional Commander having reiterated his response under item 7i, Mr I Ross of the Scottish Police Authority (SPA) gave an assurance that Members’ concerns had been heard.  This was a period of change, and it was right that Members should scrutinise this.  However, Members had been given a strong reassurance by the Divisional Commander regarding the commitment to local policing.  Time was needed for the changes to bed in, after which the outcomes could be assessed.

In response to questions raised, Mr Ross provided information on the processes now in place for dealing with complaints against Police Officers and Senior Officers; while the Divisional Commander explained the reasons for seeking to review the organisational structure of the Safer Highland Community Planning meetings, and outlined proposals to be piloted in Lochaber in the near future.

Following discussion, the Committee NOTED:

i.   the ongoing reviews within Police Scotland and the Division, and also the
    current position with relation to Voluntary Redundancy / Early Retirement;
ii.  that statistical information on complaints against the Police could be
    provided to the Committee; and
iii. that a copy of the draft revised organisational structure for taking forward
    the Safer Highland Community Planning theme would be circulated to
   Members.

8. Police Scotland Consultations – Council Responses
Co-chomhairlean Poilis na h-Alba – Freagairtean Comhairle

i. Police Scotland Public Counter Service Provision
Solar Seirbheis Cunntair Poblach Poilis na h-Alba

There had been circulated Report No. CPE-50-13 (227kb pdf) dated 25 November 2013 by the Depute Chief Executive advising that Police Scotland was consulting the Council on its review of public counter service provision.  Of 21 public counters identified for the review, no changes were proposed for 11 (including six currently co-located with Council services), an increase in opening hours for four, reducing opening hours for two and moving to part-time arrangements in four.  Following consultation with Members at Ward level a proposed response had been drafted for Members to consider.

In speaking to the report, the Head of Policy and Performance advised that feedback from Ward meetings suggested that the main specific locations of concern were Mallaig and Glencoe.  In discussion it was suggested that there was an error in the report reference to Glencoe, and that in fact the proposal was for the public counter service to cease; however, the Divisional Commander for Police confirmed the proposal was not to close the service in Glencoe.

The Divisional Commander commented that fewer changes were being made to Highland opening hours than was being experienced in other parts of the country, due to the work that had been carried out under the former Northern Joint Police Board.  Where there were differences proposed for Highland, these were in order to fit with the overall policy approach being adopted by Police Scotland following its analysis of footfall, demand, etc., and the growing levels of contact by telephone or email.

During discussion, concern was expressed that these proposals did not seem to fit with earlier reassurances that local interests would be taken into account, and that there would not be a “one size fits all” approach.  Whilst assurances were being given that closure of public counters did not necessarily mean closure of stations, the practical effect on the local community was a perception of closure.  Comment was also made that, in some areas, support staff numbers had reduced to such an extent that it appeared unlikely there would be the levels of administrative/clerical support to sustain even the proposed hours, particularly in those stations where an increase in hours was being proposed, which might lead to police officers having to be taken off the beat to provide a presence throughout opening hours.  In response, the Divisional Commander acknowledged that, while a basic support staff regime would be in place, on occasions such as sick leave it might be necessary to close the station or bring an officer in to be present while, for example, writing up reports.

Mr I Ross of the Scottish Police Authority (SPA) reminded the Committee of the need for Police Scotland to achieve savings; limited options were available.  A careful analysis had been made of usage data at stations to underpin the current proposals.  He advised Members that the SPA was looking at a range of alternative flexible approaches, such as a diary service, whereby members of the public could arrange a meeting with a police officer to deal with a matter for which they might otherwise have visited a station.  The intention was not to withdraw services, but to find alternatives, while maintaining a focus on delivering crucial core policing.

The Committee AGREED that:

i.  a response be submitted to Police Scotland on police counter changes, as
   set out in paragraphs 2.2 to 2.4 above, that included noting some concern
   about reduced opening hours in two locations, welcoming the extension of
   opening hours in other locations and noting the other changes proposed; 
   and
ii. based on the experience of co-location on six sites with the Council, the
   Council should seek to explore further shared and co-located services with
   Police Scotland to enable sustainable service delivery for local communities.

ii. Decriminalised Parking Enforcement
Cur an Gnìomh a thaobh Parcadh Dì-eucoirichte

There had been circulated Report No. CPE-51-13 (178kb pdf) dated 22 November 2013 by the Depute Chief Executive recommending action following the Police Scotland Review of Traffic Wardens, which had confirmed that Police Scotland would cease to provide a Traffic Warden Service.  Whilst the report had indicated that this would be with effect from 31 December 2013, the Divisional Commander clarified that implementation would now be with effect from 3 February 2014.  The report also outlined the process required for the Council to gain the necessary legal powers to enforce parking regulations through operation of a Decriminalised Parking Enforcement (DPE) regime, allowing the use of Penalty Charge Notices.  This process, involving the introduction of secondary legislation, would take a period of some sixteen months to two years to implement.  More qualitative/ quantitative information would be required from the Police, and further research with other Councils, to inform the draft parking control strategy which would underpin the DPE application.

The Depute Chief Executive assured Members that Council officers had been in discussion with Police Scotland on this issue for some time, in anticipation of this potential eventual outcome.  The Divisional Commander for Police assured Members that Police Scotland was committed to the safety of Highland communities and enforcement of the law, and would continue to work with the Council to address any issues arising during the transition period.

The report further highlighted the scope, following the completion of the DPE process, for the Council to consider a fresh approach to parking enforcement, and whether or not that might be integrated with other enforcement functions within the Council; further research on the scope for an “Integrated Warden” service would be done in parallel with the DPE application.

During discussion, the report was generally welcomed, as was the assurance of ongoing Police cooperation during the transition, given the disappointing length of the DPE process.  Some concern was expressed that these developments indicated a need for earlier and better engagement and consultation with local community representatives prior to the introduction of centrally determined local changes.  Members were advised that the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities was engaged on this issue and its impact across Scotland.  The suggestion was made that persuasive engagement with drivers, short of formal enforcement, could be effective in some cases, particularly in more rural areas.

After discussion, the Committee AGREED:

i.  initiation of the process of applying for Decriminalised Parking Enforcement;
    and
ii. that further research be undertaken into the scope for creating an
   integrated Warden Service and the preparation of a business case for the
   preferred service delivery model.

The Committee also NOTED that:

i.  work would continue between Council Officers and Officers of Police
   Scotland to manage the transition of the Traffic Warden service for Highland
   Communities; and
ii. a suggestion that a workshop be held to gather Member views on the scope
   of the potential integrated Warden Service would be considered.

9. Scottish Ambulance Service Quarterly Performance Report
Aithisg Dèanadais Ràitheil Seirbheis Charbadan-eiridinn na h-Alba

There had been circulated Quarterly Performance Report (614kb pdf) by the Scottish Ambulance Service (SAS) for the Highland area for the period April to October 2013, setting out statistics in relation to Accident and Emergency activity and also Scheduled Care / Patient Transport Service (PTS) performance.  A brief update on the Volunteer Car Ambulance Service was also included.

During discussion, the Chair drew attention to a recent informative SAS presentation to the Eilean a' Cheò Ward Forum and suggested that the full Committee would benefit from a similar presentation.  Mr G MacLeod of the Scottish Ambulance Service confirmed that this could be arranged.

In response to questions, Mr MacLeod confirmed that the SAS did not have a transport contract with any taxi companies.  Taxi transport was an arrangement used by NHS 24.  He also confirmed that, further to concerns expressed at the Committee’s previous meeting, the issue of contact with frail “repeat” PTS users was under consideration.  He also confirmed that:

• students could operate only alongside qualified staff
• clinic hours, particularly in evenings, and SAS availability hours did not always fit; this needed further examination
• volunteer car drivers used their own cars and received subsistence and mileage expenses.

After discussion, the Committee NOTED the report and that the Scottish Ambulance Service would make a presentation to a future meeting, providing background information as recently presented to the Eilean a' Cheò Ward Forum.

10. Highland Local Police Area - Hate Incidents, Hate Crime and Gender Based Violence
Sgìre Ionadail Poilis na Gàidhealtachd – Tachartasan Gràin, Eucoir Gràin agus Fòirneart Co-cheangailte ri Gnè

Declarations of Interest: Mrs J Campbell and Mrs A MacLean declared non-financial interests in this item as Directors of Inverness Women’s Aid and Ross-shire Women’s Aid respectively, but, having applied the test outlined in Paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3 of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, concluded that their interest did not preclude their involvement in the discussion.

At its meeting held on 5 December 2012, the Committee had considered a report on the partnership work then being carried out in relation to Hate Crime and Hate Incidents and had noted that progress reports would be brought to future meetings.

There had been circulated Report No. CPE-52-13 (304kb pdf) dated 8 November 2013 by the Divisional Commander for Police providing an update on Hate Crime and Gender Based Violence.

In speaking to the report, the Divisional Commander expressed the view that, overall, progress had been positive.  He advised that, while the number of incidents of both hate crime and domestic abuse being reported had risen slightly, in both categories the actual number of crimes and offences involved had decreased.  He was pleased that the figures evidenced increasing confidence in reporting such matters; at the same time, however, it was acknowledged that there was still significant under-reporting in both categories.  In addressing domestic abuse, Police Scotland would target repeat offenders in particular.

The report also set out figures for Stalking and Harassment and Rape and Sexual Violence.  While reported rape figures had risen markedly in 2012/13, this was partly due to an increase in reporting of historic incidents, and did not therefore indicate a change in current trends and again showed an increase in confidence in bringing matters to the attention of the Police.

In relation to commercial sexual exploitation, the Divisional Commander confirmed that levels of prostitution in Highland were small, although examples were known, particularly in Inverness, where there was some street prostitution alongside use of domestic premises.  An additional factor was the number of “escorts” travelling into Highland from elsewhere, on a temporary basis, although this activity did not in itself categorise as a crime.  Efforts to tackle this included working with those letting premises on a temporary basis.  There was a Police Scotland focus on the exploitation of vulnerable individuals and attempts to support them away from the sex industry.  The Divisional Commander also highlighted the growing problem of young people exchanging explicit self-images through social media.

During discussion, Members who had attended a recent Women’s Aid seminar commented on how enlightening this had been in revealing the extent of the problem of domestic abuse, and the various forms in which this was manifested.

In response to questions, the Divisional Commander confirmed that third party reporting had also increased.  He drew attention to the scope for using the Hate Free Highland website and also that of Police Scotland as contact points.  He also highlighted the potential for a charge of breach of the peace in domestic abuse situations where physical assault as such was not involved.

Following discussion, the Committee NOTED:

i.  the progress made by the Safer Highland Partnership in relation to Hate
   Crime and Gender Based Violence; and
ii. that figures showing how the Highlands compared with the rest of Scotland
   in terms of stalking and harassment incidents would be disseminated to
   Members.

11. Progress Report of Review Policy and Monitoring of Bullying and Prejudice-based Incidents in Schools
Aithisg Adhartais mu Phoileasaidh Ath-sgrùdaidh agus Sgrùdadh air Burraidheachd agus Tachartasan Co-cheangailte ri Claon-bhreith ann an Sgoiltean

At its meeting held on 5 December 2012, the Committee had agreed that the Education Equalities Group would review the effectiveness and scope of the Council’s then guidance and reporting form in relation to bullying and prejudice-based incidents in schools; provide revised guidance to Head Teachers on how to monitor and report on incidents; monitor reported incidents on a regular basis and investigate opportunities to work with others on the wider impact of hate incidents and crimes; and look at good practice elsewhere.

At that meeting the Committee had also agreed that training be rolled out to schools in relation to the duties on the Education Authority under the Equalities Act 2012, and include awareness of the need to record and monitor prejudice-based incidents; and that schools continue to enhance the building of trust and openness between staff and pupils and provide opportunities to discuss issues within personal and social education and more widely through the opportunities created by the Health and Wellbeing strand of the Curriculum for Excellence.

There had been circulated Report No. CPE-53-13 (473kb pdf) dated 25 November 2013 by the Director of Education providing Members with an update on progress on work to review the policy and monitoring mechanisms for bullying and prejudice based incidents in schools.  The report set out definitions of bullying, pointing out that this was a difficult exercise in itself; outlined the evidence available on levels of bullying in Highland schools, which was considered to be under-reported; and reported on progress made in tackling these issues.

In speaking to the report, the Health Improvement Policy Manager pointed out that it raised both Community Safety and Equalities issues.  The 2013 Highland Lifestyle Survey had indicated that 20% of P7, 25% of S2 and 17% of S4 pupils reported feeling bullied either a few, some or lots of times during the week prior to the Survey.  The Psychological Service had been working with Highland Youth Voice Executive to produce a survey that could address a gap in knowledge about homophobic bullying.  Overall, preliminary results suggested that some 36% of school pupils were affected in some way by homophobic bullying, with 71% identifying earliest incidents as being in primary school.

During discussion, Members expressed concern at the apparent level of such incidents occurring in primary schools.  The proposals to simplify the reporting process were welcomed and emphasis placed on the importance of inclusiveness and of recognising that the causes of bullying behaviour were complex and could, for example, result from the child responsible having in turn been a victim.  The scope for working with Highland Youth Voice was highlighted, as was the role of Parent Councils.

After discussion, the Committee NOTED:

i.   the progress in reviewing the policy and monitoring of bullying and
    prejudice-based incidents in schools;
ii.  that an updated and streamlined version of the Bullying Policy and Guidance
    and associated training would be available, following consultation, by
    spring/summer 2014; and
iii. that equalities training would be delivered to all schools, commencing in
    February 2014.

Equalities
Co-ionannachdan

12. Annual Survey of Performance and Attitudes 2013: Equalities Analysis and Attitudes to Prejudice and Discrimination
Suirbhidh Bliadhnail de Dhèanadas agus Bheachdan 2013: Mion-sgrùdadh air Co-ionannachdan agus Beachdan a thaobh Claon-bhreith agus Lethbhreith

There had been circulated Report No. CPE-54-13 (301kb pdf) dated 22 November 2013 by the Depute Chief Executive updating Members on public attitudes to prejudice and discrimination resulting from analysis of responses to questions about equality and diversity included in the Council’s Citizen’s Panel Survey 2013, most of whose content had been reported to the Highland Council meeting in September 2013.

The circulated report concentrated on the Community Life section of the Survey covering views on prejudice and diversity, including: views on prejudice; views on how accepting communities were of those coming from outside Highland; views on diverse communities; and views on relationships with people from certain groups.  The report indicated that there continued to be indications of improvements in support for tackling prejudice in Highland.

The Committee NOTED the contents of the report.

13. Violence Against Women
Fòirneart An Aghaidh Bhoireannach

Declarations of Interest: Mrs J Campbell and Mrs A MacLean declared non-financial interests in this item as Directors of Inverness Women’s Aid and Ross-shire Women’s Aid respectively, but, having applied the test outlined in Paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3 of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, concluded that their interest did not preclude their involvement in the discussion.

There had been circulated Report No. CPE-55-13 (191kb pdf) dated 25 November 2013 by the Director of Health and Social Care detailing progress in the 3 key priorities in the Violence Against Women (VAW) Action Plan: responding to sexual violence, working with perpetrators, and the roll out of Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conferences across Highland.  The report also outlined the strategic approach for 2013-16, based on deliverables agreed by the Violence Against Women Strategy Group and Safer Highland: improve safety for those affected by VAW; improve services for those affected by VAW; take steps to prevent future VAW; and deal effectively with perpetrators of VAW.

The report outlined a range of developments since the Council had first become involved in a multi-agency strategy to tackle domestic abuse in 2003, with particular reference to current issues/activity in the areas of Criminal Justice Social Work, Housing, Education and Licensing.  The report also summarised current evidence on the levels of violence against women in society and also local authority obligations to tackle VAW.

During discussion, the report was generally welcomed.  There was recognition that most VAW remained unreported; however, there was evidence that confidence in reporting was increasing, and the strategy set out, including the programme for schools, would assist further progress.  A copy of the 2013-16 Highland Violence Against Women Work Plan, which provided further detail on timescales for roll-out, would be passed to Members.

Attention was drawn to the inclusion of commercial sexual exploitation as a category within the definition of violence against women, and specific attention drawn to the current limitations on the ability of Licensing authorities to deal properly with issues such as lap-dancing applications, and the contradiction between this and the Council’s obligations to implement Equalities legislation.  It was hoped that the Scottish Government would introduce changes to address this and give Licensing Boards wider powers to refuse such applications, otherwise Government and local authorities were failing in their obligations towards women.

After discussion, the Committee NOTED that consideration would be given to providing a presentation to the Committee on the issues involved in Violence Against Women; and AGREED to reaffirm their commitment to tackling Violence Against Women in Highland and support the delivery of the 2013-16 Highland Violence Against Women Work Plan.

14. Violence Against Women Strategy Group – Minutes
Buidheann Ro-innleachd Fòirneart An Aghaidh Bhoireannach – Geàrr- Chunntas

Declarations of Interest: Mrs J Campbell and Mrs A MacLean declared non-financial interests in this item as Directors of Inverness Women’s Aid and Ross-shire Women’s Aid respectively, but, having applied the test outlined in Paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3 of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, concluded that their interest did not preclude their involvement in the discussion.

The Minutes of the Violence Against Women Strategy Group meetings held on 25 June 2013 (158kb pdf) and 28 August 2013 (163kb pdf) had been circulated and were NOTED.

15. Annual Report: Promoting Inclusion and Reducing Stigma for People Affected by Mental Illness
Aithisg Bhliadhnail: A’ Brosnachadh In-ghabhail agus a’ Lùghdachadh Stiogma do Dhaoine fo Bhuaidh Tinneis Inntinn

There had been circulated Report No. CPE-56-13 (244kb pdf) dated 22 November 2013 by the Depute Chief Executive updating Members on work to promote inclusion for people living with mental illness and to reduce the effects of stigma experienced by them; and setting out proposals for continued and further work in this area.

The report outlined progress on implementing the Action Plan to promote mental wellbeing and inclusion drawn up following the Council’s signature in March 2012 of the See Me Pledge.  Commitments under the Action Plan fell under the headings of Public Awareness Raising, including reduction of stigma, promotion of awareness and suicide prevention work; Staff Awareness Raising; Staff Wellbeing; Mental Health Improvement; and Mental Health Inclusion.

In speaking to the report, the Health Improvement Policy Officer drew attention to the range of organisations with which the Council worked in partnership, including HUG Action for Mental Health.

During discussion, some Members referred to their own experiences of mental health issues, and attention was drawn to the therapeutic value of creative writing exercises, where individuals with mental health difficulties could write down their experiences and read their accounts aloud in a controlled group setting.

Following discussion, the Committee NOTED the progress being made in mental health inclusion and anti-stigma work, as described in the report, and AGREED the proposed action and targets in the forward plan as set out in Appendix 1 to the report.

The Committee also NOTED that a consultation session with members of HUG Action For Mental Health could be arranged to follow a future Committee meeting.

16. Report on actions from meeting Sensory groups and Members of the Community Safety, Public Engagement and Equalities Committee on 12 September 2013
Aithisg mu ghnìomhan bho bhith a’ coinneachadh ri buidhnean Mothachail agus buill na Comataidh Sàbhailteachd Coimhearsnachd, Com-pàirteachas Poblach agus Co-ionannachdan air 12 Sultain 2013

Members had previously agreed to hold sessions following each meeting of this Committee to hear the testimonies of local equality groups, with particular reference to their experiences of discrimination, prejudice and harassment, as well as examples of good practice in removing barriers, for example to accessing services or employment.

There had been circulated Report No. CPE-57-13 (231kb pdf) dated 22 November by the Depute Chief Executive summarising the issues that had arisen from a meeting held after the Committee’s meeting on 12 September 2013 with some of the groups with an interest in sensory impairment issues in Highland, including Sight Action, Inverness Access Panel, British Deaf Association, Highland Deaf Forum and Lochaber Deaf Care.

It was estimated that around 40,000 people in Highland had some degree of vision or hearing loss, with around 3,000 having a hearing loss so significant that they would qualify for support from Social Work’s Deaf Services, and between 6,000 and 9,000 people with a sight loss that could be legally registered as Blind or partially sighted.

The report outlined the requirements of the Equality Act and examples of “reasonable adjustment”, as required under the Act.  At the meeting, a number of instances had been cited where people had found barriers to access to services.  Practical suggestions for improvements had been made and a number of actions identified, with further details set out in the Appendix to the report. 

The Committee NOTED:

i.  the issues raised in the meeting with sensory impairment groups; and
ii. the actions proposed by Services in response, as set out in the Appendix to the report.

The meeting ended at 2.30 p.m.