3. Service Improvement Plan 2024-27 Outturn Report
Renfrewshire Council · 13 May 2025
Back to Communities and Housing Policy Board — 13 May 2025 and its agenda
Text extracted from the council's PDF. Layout and reading order may differ from the original.
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___________________________________________________________________ To: Communities and Housing Policy Board On: 13 May 2025 ___________________________________________________________________ Report by: Director of Environment, Housing, and Infrastructure ___________________________________________________________________ Heading: Environment Housing and Infrastructure Service Improvement Plan 2024-2027 - Outturn Report ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Summary 1.1 The Environment Housing Infrastructure Service Improvement Plan 2024- 2027 was approved by the Communities and Housing Policy Board on 21 May 2024. The plan sets out the priorities for the development of the service over a three-year period. 1.2 The Service Improvement Plan is part of a suite of documents which describes the strategic direction of the service and the Council and also includes the Council Plan, Community Plan, Risk Management Plan and the Workforce Plan. 1.3 The Service Improvement Plan sets out the action which will ensure continuous improvement across the service and the performance indicators which ensures the impact can be measured. Therse reflect the priority themes of the Council Plan which was refreshed in June 2024. 1.4 Full details of Environment, Housing and Infrastructure performance and achievements over the period 1 April 2024 to 31 March 2025 are appended to this report. The main purpose of the report is to provide: details of the key achievements of the service over the period. a progress update on implementing the action plan linked to the 2024- 2027 Service Improvement Plan; and an assessment of performance in relation to the service scorecard of core performance indicators. 1.5 During 2024/2025, the service has made good progress in delivering positive outcomes for Renfrewshire and its residents. This includes through the actions within the Service Improvement Plan and also other areas of activity which did not form part of the Service Improvement Plan actions which have subsequently arisen during 2024/2025.
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1.6 A new Service Improvement Plan covering the period 2025/2028 is also being presented to this meeting of the Communities and Housing Policy Board. ___________________________________________________________________ 2. Recommendations It is recommended that the Communities and Housing Policy Board: 2.1 Note the contents of this report. 2.2 Note the progress to date on delivering the actions contained within the Environment, Housing and Infrastructure - Service Improvement Plan. 2.3 Note the current performance of the service as measured by the scorecard indicators. 3. Background 3.1 The Service Improvement Plan is a comprehensive statement of the outcomes the service aims to achieve, and the actions it will take to achieve these. It fits within the wider planning framework of the Council by taking account of Community Planning themes and Council priorities as set out in the new Council Plan. It enables elected members to have oversight of developments within the service and to consider and develop policy options which reflect customer need and resource availability. 3.2 The service improvement plan also provides a mechanism by which elected members can evaluate the performance of the service. It contains an action plan and performance indicators against which progress can be measured. This outturn report provides an update on progress against the 2024-2027 plan. 4. Service Update and Key Achievements April 2024 to March 2025. 4.1 Environment, Housing & Infrastructure continue to deliver essential frontline services across Renfrewshire. Key achievements for Environment, Housing & Infrastructure under the remit of the Communities and Housing Policy Board are detailed throughout the action plan and performance indicators in the appendix. 5. Areas where action have been delayed or cancelled. 5.1 We await confirmation and announcement by the Scottish Government in order to work with partners to deliver the new duties in relation of prevention of homelessness. 5.2 The animal licensing work will be carried forward to include the proposed new animal licensing requirements. 5.3 The Implementation on the proposed ban on the sale and supply of single use nicotine vaping products has been moved by law to 1 June 2025 to allow for a harmonised date across the Four Nations.
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5.4 It was announced in March 2025, that the draft Heat in Buildings Strategy (HiBS) is now going to be re-written by the Scottish Government prior to it being made a Bill and therefore we are still awaiting the final agreed Scottish Housing Net Zero Standard (SHNZS). 5.6 There are 252 properties that have Electrical Installation Conditions Report (EICR) overdue. All of these are due to be accessed within April. There is expected to be a small number remaining at the end of April which will have forced access arranged in May. There, are also a small number of cases (currently 44) with environmental issues where engagement with the tenants is ongoing. 5.7 The work to establish and embed an enquiry system for Housing Services within Environment, Housing & Infrastructure is progressing, staff have been recruited, work has commenced on complaints and investigations and in the first quarter for 25/26 work will commence on elected member enquiries. 6. Progress against performance measures 6.1 Environment, Housing and Infrastructure has 19 performance indicators. 6 are reported annually and 13 are reported quarterly. Of the quarterly indicators there are ‘data only’ indicators which do not have targets. ___________________________________________________________________ Implications of the Report 1. Financial – Any financial elements referenced in this report will be progressed through the Council’s financial & budget planning process. 2. HR & Organisational Development – None. 3. Community/Council Planning – The report details a range of activities which reflect local community and council planning themes. 4. Legal – None. 5. Property/Assets – None. 6. Information Technology – None. 7. Equality & Human Rights – The recommendations contained within this report have been assessed in relation to their impact on equalities and human rights. No negative impacts on equality groups or potential for infringement of individuals’ human rights have been identified arising from the recommendations contained in the report. If required following implementation, the actual impact of the recommendations and the mitigating actions will be reviewed and monitored, and the results of the assessment will be published on the Council’s website. 8. Health & Safety – None. 9. Procurement – None. 10. Risk – None. 11. Privacy Impact – None.
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12. Climate Risk – there are a range of actions and activities throughout the Service Update Report which support the Council’s Plan for Net Zero. 13. Children’s Rights – None. 14. Cosla Policy Position – None. _______________________________________________________ List of Background Papers: Communities and Housing Policy Board; 21 May 2024 - Environment, Housing and Infrastructure – Service Improvement Plan 2024/27 – Agenda item 4 Communities and Housing Policy Board; 29 October 202 - Environment, Housing and Infrastructure - Service Improvement Plan 2023/26 Mid-Year Monitoring Report – Agenda item 4 _______ __________________________________ Author: Gordon McNeil, Director of Environment, Housing & Infrastructure Email: Gordon.mcneil@renfrewshire.gov.uk
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level ENVIRONMENT, HOUSING AND INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES SERVICE IMPROVEMENT PLAN 2024-2027 Outturn Report May 2025 Communities and Housing Policy Board
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level WELCOME TO OUR OUTTURN REPORT • This update reflects progress over the last year of our Service Improvement Plan, highlighting areas where we are already making progress and some areas we want to focus on more, perhaps because performance isn’t moving in the direction we anticipated or because of other pressures or factors that makes this even more of a priority for us. • The following pages shine a spotlight on some great projects or practice and highlight areas where we’d like to improve or develop further. At a service level, there is a stronger focus on some of the Council Plan Strategic Outcomes than others. Towards the end of this document, you’ll find a full update against all the actions and performance indicators we use to measure progress. • We report on 19 performance indicators, 6 are reported annually and 13 reported quarterly. This report contains data pertaining to Quarterly figures throughout 2024/25 and annual figures for 2024/25.
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level ABOUT US This update covers the Environment, Housing and Infrastructure service areas within the remit of the Communities and Housing Policy Board. These are: Housing Services Responsibilities include: • As at, 31 March 2025 the housing stock being managed is 12,078 • Providing services to Council tenants, alongside housing advice and support • Assisting homeless people and those threatened with homelessness • Ensuring people have safe and healthy places to live Public Protection Responsibilities include: • Regulatory and Public Protection services including partnership working with police, fire and other multiagency partners • Helping to keep people safe through the Community Safety Hub • Safeguarding the public and protecting consumers through Trading Standards and Environmental Health Civil Contingencies Responsibilities include: • Providing support to all services across the Council to ensure they have robust arrangements in place for the continued delivery of essential services in the event of significant incidents such as disruptive weather or widespread power outage. • Civil Contingencies service has provided emergency planning for Renfrewshire, and on behalf of East Renfrewshire, Inverclyde and West Dunbartonshire council areas
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level Many of our Business as Usual functions are determined by reports approved at board. For Environment, Housing & Infrastructure, reports are presented to different Policy Boards depending on the topic. Papers and access to video recordings of past meetings are available on the Council’s website. KEY PLANS, STRATEGIES AND REPORTS APPROVED DURING 2024/25 A revised Scheme of Assistance for Private Homeowners Fireworks Control Zones Process Local Heat and Energy Efficiency Strategy Delivery Plan A revised Temporary Accommodation Charging Policy The CCTV Installation Policy Roads Adoption Policy A new Cemetery Management & Memorial Safety Policy A revised Waste Operations Policy Pavement Parking Policy/ Orders
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level DELIVERING THE COUNCIL PLAN Place Green Housing Estate Manager (Council Housing) in post and joint working firmly established; as the post holder has become the single point of contact for many internal partners. This partnership working is the foundation upon which new and emerging initiatives will be develop. A joint project team involving housing and neighbourhood services is currently working on estate based, initiatives which will be delivered in the period 25/26 The deployment of temporary staff funded via our RRTP to assist homeless applicants to transition from temporary accommodation to their own tenancy has been effective in maintaining the length of time to complete duty towards those who are homeless at a level that compares well with other Scottish local authorities and has not increased despite the increase in homeless applications in recent years Advising on Net Zero and correct disposal of batteries and electrical equipment continues to be part of Trading Standards visit to any trader. Green claims have been investigated, and eco refill shops have been advised and supported into compliance. Team Up to Clean Up volunteers have collected 19,025 bags of litter through the year with this activity being supported by Neighbourhood Services and Community Support Officers engaging with the public to reinforce that littering as an offence. During the 2024/25 period five Fixed Penalty Notices for littering were issued.
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level PLACE The use of the Housing First approach continues to be deployed, and the MyLA (My Life Ahead) project - funded via the Alcohol & Drug Commission Programme Board - has supported 89 service users since its launch in May 2022. We are on target to increase the number of Council properties let to homeless applicants. There has been a similar positive response from local RSL’s. The Regeneration and Renewal programme across the eight areas is making positive progress across all areas where the agreed timeline shows, works scheduled in year 4 of this 10-year programme. As reported to the Communities and Housing Board in August 2024, the acquisition and rehousing strategy is performing as planned and various phases of demolition are being taken forward as blocks become fully council owned and vacant. . Achievements By 18 March 2025 Operational and Management void numbers had been reduced to 335 and void rent loss had been reduced to 4.01%. By 31 January 2025 net void turnaround time had been reduced to 37.9 days. The Anti-Social Behaviour App pilot project has recently concluded. Work is underway to integrate the learning from the pilot period into training and communications to enable full roll out across the Local Housing Teams. The App will exist alongside all other methods of reporting, such as email, telephone and in person
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level ECONOMY Achievements • The two Modern Apprenticeships (MA) are well embedded in the service and have commenced their training with Ayr College. The Assessor has set a workplan with them, and the MAs are working with Officers across all Teams to compile their portfolio evidence. • We continue to support the implementation of Short Let Licensing Scheme, This is an ongoing, and now business as usual activity. During the 2024/25 year, Officers were consulted on 26 applications and of these, there were none which had been recommended for refusal, based on property condition/standards. The Operational Services, have partnered with Economic Development to provide employment, training and apprenticeship opportunities including: • 3 new apprenticeships with recruitment underway to recruit underway to recruit a 4th • 3 apprentices successfully completed their programme and have secured full time roles with Renfrewshire Council • 2 administration internships • 15 one-year HGV apprenticeships to upskill existing staff Within Climate, Public Protection and Roads service we also currently have a young person sponsored by Invest In Renfrewshire employed in the road safety field in schools • Two Housing Modern Apprentices (MA’s) joined the Service in January this year. The MA’s will gain experience across the range of housing functions, including - housing allocations, housing options, tenancy management, repairs, homelessness and regeneration. The apprentices will work towards achieving an SVQ Housing (SQA) SCQF level 6, enhanced by Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH) Scottish Certificate in Housing Practice. They are current working on their first module within CIH following induction to the course in March. A great opportunity for the individuals involved and the service alike.
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level FAIR Achievements We continue to work with partners on national Serious Organised Crime and CONTEST (Prevent) agendas. A strong multi-agency approach has been adopted involving various stakeholders and supported by actively engaged senior leaders. Key areas of activity include mandatory Prevent training being rolled out, Dedicated Prevent leads in education and completion of the Prevent Annual Assurance Return. Access to specialist income advice for Council Tenants experiencing financial issues is provided through dedicated Income Advice available for Council Tenants and digital referral process in place. Ensure effective participation and support for all refugee programmes. Advice, assistance, support - and a focus on integration - continues to be provided to those who have resettled in Renfrewshire via the various programmes. . We continue to reduce inequalities with projects continuing to be targeted to where they can make most impact to citizens and families on low income. National initiatives around pricing, website compliance, short measure and consumer product safety have been completed. . No permanent or transit Gypsy Traveller sites in Renfrewshire Where required we will offer signposting advice and assistance with meeting health, education and other needs, and share information on Gypsy Traveller Transit Sites with partners such as HSCP, Police Scotland, Children's Services etc. Projects continue to be targeted to where they can make most impact to citizens and families on low income. National initiatives around pricing, website compliance, short measure and consumer product safety have been completed. . Delivery of the Strategy Action Plan continues, key highlights for the past year include: This year saw 19 inspections by all of the Quality Circles The Estate Management Quality Circle has carried out inspections in seven areas, Sheltered Housing and Health & Wellbeing service now delivering a broader, enhanced service
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level GREEN • Advising on Net Zero and correct disposal of batteries and electrical equipment continues to be part of Trading Standards visit to any trader. Green claims have been investigated, and eco refill shops have been advised and supported into compliance. • Team Up to Clean Up volunteers have collected 19,025 bags of litter through the year with this activity being supported by Neighbourhood Services and Community Support Officers engaging with the public to reinforce that littering as an offence. During the 2024/25 period five Fixed Penalty Notices for littering were issued. • Priority projects continue to be identified, costed and progressed in partnership with key service areas including Waste, Transport and OneRen. Projects include Sustainable Travel, and Local Heating and Energy Efficiency (LHEES). Achievements
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level Living our Values Achievements • Environment, Housing & Infrastructure continue to proactively support and encourage development of new ways of working where possible including the widespread use of technology, such as M365 and GIS mapping, to improve collaborative working and streamline processes. • Robust and up to date business continuity arrangements are in place across all services and are supported with ongoing training, scenario planning and exercises • Work has been undertaken to complete actions identified from Audit reports (Internal Audit and External Audit) and accreditations, including maintaining British Standards ISO 9001 for identified services, have been retained • The Environment, Housing & Infrastructure Health and Safety Plan 2024/25 end of year report and an updated Environment, Housing & Infrastructure Health & Safety Plan 2025 – 2028 will also be considered by the appropriate Board in May/June 2025. Work has taken place across services throughout 2024/25 to review health and safety and risk assessments. • Teams from Environment, Housing and Infrastructure have completed Level 1 (Trauma informed) and Level 2 (Trauma Skilled) Training with almost 100 staff participating in 2024/25. Trauma informed approaches already aligned closely with the ethos of the service, but the additional training has highlighted • Opportunities to build on existing good practice, not only in terms of working with service users but also in supporting colleagues. Staff from E,H&I were invited to the Trauma Informed and Responsive Renfrewshire Steering Group to present on how the training has benefitted them and how they have implemented the learning
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level ACTIONS AND INDICATORS Communities and Housing Policy Board May 2025
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level DELIVERING THE SERVICE IMPROVEMENT PLAN– PLACE Progress UpdateStatus Due DateWhat we will do The deployment of temporary staff funded via our RRTP to assist homeless applicants to transition from temporary accommodation to their own tenancy has been effective in maintaining the length of time to complete duty towards those who are homeless at a level that compares well with other Scottish local authorities and has not increased despite the increase in homeless applications in recent years. The number and proportion of lets by the Council and RSL’s has remained high in order to ease the homelessness pressures The use of the Housing First approach continues to be deployed, and the MyLA (My Life Ahead) project - funded via the Alcohol & Drug Commission Programme Board - has supported 89 service users since its launch in May 2022. An independent qualitive assessment on MyLA is almost complete. 31 March 2025 Deliver the key outputs from the 6th year of Renfrewshire’s Rapid Rehousing Transition Plan (RRTP) and ensure the supply of temporary accommodation provision of support to those in need, and the number of social rented housing lets meets the national and local increase in homelessness. The Scottish Government have still to introduce this legislation . To be confirmed once it is decided that the Housing Bill should become an Act Deliver any new duties, with partners, in relation to prevention of homelessness. Draft strategy currently being updated to reflect changes to legislation and other clarification. It is intended to be presented to a future Communities & Housing Policy Board31 March 2025 Implement revised Housing Asset Management Strategy. Positive progress is being made across all areas where the agreed timeline shows, works scheduled in year 4 of this 10-year programme. As reported to the Communities and Housing Board in August 2024, the acquisition and rehousing strategy is performing as planned and various phases of demolition are being taken forward as blocks become fully council owned and vacant. 31 March 2026 Progress the Regeneration and Renewal programme across the eight Areas.
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level Progress UpdateStatusDue DateWhat we will do By 31 March 2025 Operational and Management void numbers had been reduced to 334, void rent loss had been reduced to 3.97% and net void turnaround time had been reduced to 37.27 days.31 March 2025. Officers will work together to review the delivery and turnaround of void properties across Renfrewshire to minimise times, wherever possible, to allow properties to be re-let. Legal duties continue to be met, and we are on target to increase the number of Council properties let to homeless applicants. There has been a similar positive response from local RSL’s. There has been an increase in the stock of furnished properties used as temporary accommodation for those who are homeless. Support is being provided to those who have resettled in Renfrewshire via the Ukraine, Afghan etc programmes 31 March 2025 Develop and implement the range of measures in place to mitigate the impacts from the increased homeless pressures, especially in relation to changes in national migration and resettlement policies and programmes. Housing Estate Manager (Council Housing) in post and joint working firmly established; as the post holder has become the single point of contact for many internal partners. This partnership working is the foundation upon which new and emerging initiatives will be develop. A joint project team involving housing and neighbourhood services is currently working on estate based, initiatives which will be delivered in the period 25/26 31 March 2025 Improve connections with services involved in the delivery of estate management related activity in and around the Council’s Housing stock. The Pilot project has recently concluded. Work is underway to integrate the learning from the pilot period into training and communications to enable full roll out across the Local Housing Teams. Note: The App will exist alongside all other methods of reporting, such as email, telephone and in person 31 March 2025 Extend the ways tenants impacted by Anti-social Behaviour (ASB) can make reports and log incidents using systems such as the ‘ASB app’. This work remains ongoing to review and refresh the approach to tackling dog fouling. Officers from relevant service are participating with the review. This action will be supported by the provision of £30,000 for a dog fouling awareness campaign through 2025/2026 budget settlement. 31 March 2025 Review our current approach to dog fouling enforcement and use community engagement and data to map out ‘hot spots’ to target enforcement. DELIVERING THE SERVICE IMPROVEMENT PLAN– PLACE
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level Explanation of performance 2024/25Q4 Q3Q2 Q1 2024/252023/242022/2023Current Status Indicator ValueValueValueValueValueTargetTargetValueTargetValue As required under statute, all Regulated Private Water Supplies were sampled and risk assessed during the reporting year 100%Not measured for quarters100%100%100%100%100% Private Water Supplies – 100% of type A supplies risk assessed and sampled The average value is significantly below the target for the year due to the statutory reporting process this annual value will not be available until June 2025, and an update will be provided at this time. TBCNot measured for quarters18ug/m318ug/m312.78ug/m318ug/m314.2ug/m3 Air Quality - Annual average PM10 value across all continuous monitoring sites Preliminary data indicates there were no exceedances of the target value of 40ug/m3 at any monitoring location during the reporting period. However, due to the statutory reporting process this annual value will not be available until June 2025, and an update will be provided at this time. TBCNot measured for quarters40ug/m340ug/m30ug/m340ug/m30ug/m3 Air Quality - average nitrogen dioxide value of monitoring sites, within AQMA(s) exceeding limits DELIVERING THE SERVICE IMPROVEMENT PLAN– PLACE
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level Explanation of performance 2024/25Q4 Q3Q2 Q1 2024/252023/242022/2023Current Status Indicator ValueValueValueValueValueTargetTargetValueTargetValue Of the 28820 reactive repairs carried out in 24/25, 25967 were completed right first time. This is just short of a 3%- point improvement compared to last year. 90.1%Not measured for quarters93%93%87.3%93%90% Percentage of reactive repairs carried out in the last year complete right first time (Housing) Year-end performance has improved compared to the previous year 93.2%90.2%94.36%95.37 %94.5%95%95%92.1%95%93.43% Percentage of Overall Repairs Completed Within Target (Housing Services) This year just over 29259 non- emergency repairs were completed in an average of 6.9 days. This is an improvement in the average time from last year (7.9 days). 6.9 days8.1 days6.6 days5.98 days 6.5 days15 days15 days7.9 days15 days6.1 days Average length of time taken to complete non- emergency repairs (days) (Housing Services) Please note the Q4 figure remains to be verified by the Scottish Government. TBC23.2321.222.4121.1262621.332421.74 Average time from household presenting themselves as homeless to completion of duty (number of weeks) DELIVERING THE SERVICE IMPROVEMENT PLAN– PLACE
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level DELIVERING THE SERVICE IMPROVEMENT PLAN – ECONOMY Progress UpdateStatusDue DateWhat we will do The Operational Services, have partnered with Economic Development to provide employment, training and apprenticeship opportunities including: • 3 new apprenticeships with recruitment underway to recruit underway to recruit a 4th • 3 apprentices successfully completed their programme and have secured full time roles with Renfrewshire Council • 2 administration internships • 15 one-year HGV apprenticeships to upskill existing staff Within Climate, Public Protection and Roads service we also currently have a young person sponsored by Invest In Renfrewshire employed in the road safety field in schools The two Modern Apprenticeships (MA) are well embedded in the service and have commenced their training with Ayr College. The Assessor has set a workplan with them, and the MAs are working with Officers across all Teams to compile their portfolio evidence. Most recently the MA have been working within the Environmental Taskforce and Private Landlord enforcement areas. Feedback from Officers within the teams is positive with them adding value to the teams. In addition to the two MAs, there has also been two Invest trainees working within Public Protection, one being developed within pest control and the second within an enforcement role dealing with private landlord registration. It is anticipated that these two officers will take on appropriate permanent positions within the Council prior to their traineeship ending. 31 March 2025 Provide employment, training, and apprenticeship opportunities for identified groups of young people in Renfrewshire. This work remains ongoing and will be carried forward to 2025/26 which will also include proposed new animal licensing requirements. 31 March 2025 Complete the review of animal license conditions across all licences.
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level DELIVERING THE SERVICE IMPROVEMENT PLAN – ECONOMY Progress UpdateStatusDue DateWhat we will do Service Plan delivery is ongoing. Food sampling programme has been completed for the year 2024/25. Health and safety interventions on target for being completed 31 March for 2024/25.31 March 2025Deliver The Business Regulation Service Plan. This is an ongoing, and now business as usual activity. During the 2024/25 year, Officers were consulted on 26 applications and of these, there were none which had been recommended for refusal, based on property condition/standards. 31 March 2025 Continue to support the implementation of Short Let Licensing Scheme. Implementation date has been moved by law to 1 June 2025 to allow for a harmonised date across the Four Nations. Work has commenced to advise businesses on the incoming legislation, and Officers have been undertaking training as well as preparing documentation for the delivery of new powers. 31 March 2025 Implement the proposed ban on the sale and supply of single use nicotine vaping products.
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level DELIVERING THE SERVICE IMPROVEMENT PLAN – FAIR Progress UpdateStatusDue Date What we will do No Gypsy/Travellers sites in Renfrewshire Where required we will offer signposting advice and assistance with meeting health, education and other needs, and share information on Gypsy Traveller Transit Sites with partners such as HSCP, Police Scotland, Childrens Services etc. Ongoing Liaise with Gypsy/Travellers who are staying in Transit Sites. Projects continue to be targeted to where they can make most impact to citizens and families on low income. National initiatives around pricing, website compliance, short measure and consumer product safety have been completed.31 March 2025 Reducing inequalities by ensuring proactive regulatory activities are targeted where they can support the wellbeing or financial security of citizens. Work continues at both strategic and operational levels to address current and emerging threats in serious organised crime and counter terrorism. A strong multi-agency approach has been adopted involving various stakeholders and supported by actively engaged senior leaders. Key areas of activity include mandatory Prevent training being rolled out, Dedicated Prevent leads in education and completion of the Prevent Annual Assurance Return. 31 March 2025 Work with partners on national Serious Organised Crime and CONTEST (Prevent) agendas. Delivery of the Strategy Action Plan continues, key highlights for the past year include: This year saw 19 inspections by all of the Quality Circles The Estate Management Quality Circle has carried out inspections in seven areas, Throughout the year the Tenants’ Scrutiny Panel has continued to meet online using the Microsoft TEAMS platform. The 2025-27 Rent Consultation process was conducted using an online survey and in total over 1,000 tenants participated. More than 5,300 tenants have provided their email contact to receive updates from us. This channel is used to provide important information, including about preparing your home for winter weather and accessing council services over the festive period. The rent consultation for 2025–2028 advised tenants of the participatory budgeting initiative. Tenants will be involved in deciding how some funding is spent in council housing areas. Details of this initiative are the subject of a separate report to this Policy Board. 31 March 2025 Deliver the Action Plan outcomes outlined in the Tenant Participation Strategy 2022‐2027.
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level DELIVERING THE SERVICE IMPROVEMENT PLAN – FAIR Progress UpdateStatusDue DateWhat we will do Advice, assistance, support - and a focus on integration - continues to be provided to those who have resettled in Renfrewshire via the various programmes. 31 March 2025 Ensure effective participation and support for all refugee programmes. Sheltered Housing and Health & Wellbeing service now delivering a broader, enhanced service 30 June 2024 Fully implement the improvements to our Sheltered Housing and Health & Wellbeing service. Dedicated Income Advice available for Council Tenants and digital referral process in place.31 March 2025 Simplify access to specialist income advice for Council Tenants experiencing financial issues. We have completed 2911 Electrical Installation Conditions Reports (EICRs) have been completed in 2024/25. There are 252 properties that have EICRs safety checks overdue. All of these are due to be accessed within April. There is expected to be a small number remaining at the end of April which will have forced access arranged in May. There, are also a small number of cases (currently 44) with environmental issues where engagement with the tenants is ongoing. 31 March 2025 Ensure council housing properties are fully compliant with electrical safety and smoke detection.
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level GREEN Progress UpdateStatusDue DateWhat we will do Advising on Net Zero and correct disposal of batteries and electrical equipment continues to be part of Trading Standards visit to any trader. Green claims have been investigated, and eco refill shops have been advised and supported into compliance. 31 March 2025 Supporting the local economy towards Net Zero; ensuring proper and informed consumer choice, both through effective advice and regulation. It was announced in March 2025, that the draft Heat in Buildings Strategy (HiBS) is now going to be re-written by the Scottish Government prior to it being made a Bill and therefore we are still awaiting the final agreed Scottish Housing Net Zero Standard (SHNZS). 31 March 2025 This needs to tie in with Scottish Government timelines Deliver the Energy Efficiency Standard for Social Housing post- 2020 (EESSH2) milestones. (The Scottish Government is reviewing EESSHH2 to strengthen and realign the standard with the target for net zero heat in houses from 2040, as set out in the Climate Change Update, the Heat in Buildings Strategy, and the Housing to 2040 Route Map – whilst the review is underway, the Scottish Housing Regulator will continue to gather data on EESSH1 compliance). Priority projects continue to be identified, costed and progressed in partnership with key service areas including Waste, Transport and OneRen. Projects include Sustainable Travel, and Local Heating and Energy Efficiency (LHEES). A project register will be finalised within the new Carbon Management Plan, outlining our approach to reducing carbon emissions over a 3-year period. Once agreed the Carbon Management Plan will go to the ILE Board for approval in August. 31 March 2026 Develop costed delivery plans to support zero journey within the Council and working in partnership with key stakeholders. Team Up to Clean Up volunteers have collected 19,025 bags of litter through the year with this activity being supported by Neighbourhood Services and Community Support Officers engaging with the public to reinforce that littering as an offence. During the 2024/25 period five Fixed Penalty Notices for littering were issued. This action will continue into 2025/26 with renewed focus on enforcement activity to support the work of the Team Up to Clean Up team. 31 March 2025 Deliver a programme of enhanced operational environmental and community support activities for environment and place.
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level GREEN Explanation of performance 2024/25Q4Q3Q2Q1 2024/252023/242022/23Current Status Indicator ValueValueValueValueValueTargetTargetValueTargetValue The percentage of stock meeting SHQS has increased significantly to 79.9% from 68.6%, performance for this indicator changed to include compliance with the 5-yearly Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR), as well as the new smoke and heat detector standard. 79.9%Not measured for quarters100%100%68.55100%68.31% Percentage of Council housing stock which meets the Scottish Housing Quality Standard Performance remains similar to 2023/24. Whilst energy improvements have been made through our housing investment programmes, changes in stock through agreed demolition programmes along with improved EPC data mean the percentage remains almost the same. 87.68%Not measured for quarters95%95%87.75%95%85.07% Percentage of homes meeting the EESSH 2020 standard
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level DELIVERING THE SERVICE IMPROVEMENT PLAN – LIVING OUR VALUES Progress UpdateStatusDue DateWhat we will do Prioritising employee engagement and communication actions identified through the organisational workplace survey and insights from staff comms pulse survey, including forums for direct employee feedback and working with managers to develop effective approaches to communications and engagement with frontline operational teams. 31 March 2025 Continue to develop new approaches to staff communication and engagement across all areas of the service. Robust and up to date business continuity arrangements are in place across all services and are supported with ongoing training, scenario planning and exercises31 March 2025Ensure robust and up to date business continuity arrangements are in place and maintained. The enquiry system for public and elected members is established and embedded across Environment and Infrastructure Services and supports ongoing work to identify recurring issues or concerns and service improvement. The work to establish and embed an enquiry system for Housing Services within Environment, Housing & Infrastructure is progressing, staff have been recruited, work has commenced on complaints and investigations and in the first quarter for 25/26 work will commence on elected member enquiries. 31 March 2025 Embed the enquiry systems for public and elected members across Environment, Housing & Infrastructure services. The Environment, Housing & Infrastructure Health and Safety Plan 2024/25 end of year report and an updated Environment, Housing & Infrastructure Health & Safety Plan 2025 – 2028 will also be considered by the appropriate Board in May/June 2025. Work has taken place across services throughout 2024/25 to review health and safety and risk assessments 31 March 2025 Review Health & Safety and Risk Assessments. Regular financial monitoring discussions with Senior Management and the Finance Team are well established to support ongoing monitoring and planning of resources with the financial position reported to the Board on a regular basis 31 March 2025 Ensure robust financial monitoring. Work has been undertaken to complete actions identified from Audit reports (Internal Audit and External Audit) and accreditations, including maintaining British Standards ISO 9001 for identified services, have been retained 31 March 2025 Review and maintain continuous improvement frameworks.
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level DELIVERING THE SERVICE IMPROVEMENT PLAN – LIVING OUR VALUES Progress UpdateStatusDue DateWhat we will do Environment, Housing & Infrastructure continue to proactively support and encourage development of new ways of working where possible including the widespread use of technology, such as M365 and GIS mapping, to improve collaborative working ad streamline processes. 31 March 2025 Support the Council in developing New Ways of Working. . All employees are supported to manage their attendance, health and wellbeing including the use of Occupational Health referrals and Counselling where appropriate. 31 March 2025 Provide our employees with the appropriate support to manage their attendance, health, and wellbeing. Better use of data and technology underpins our drive to improve service performance and delivery. Work in 2024/25 has included supporting the Waste & Recycling Service with a rerouting project, Roads & Transportation to implement a new system and GIS mapping for our trees and using robotic cleaning machine to ensure our resources are allocated efficiently and effectively. 31 March 2025 Better use of data and technology to improve services performance and delivery. EH&I has completed the Right for Renfrewshire Programme 31 March 2025Implement the next phase of transformation as part of Right for Renfrewshire. Teams from Environment, Housing and Infrastructure have completed Level 1 (Trauma informed) and Level 2 (Trauma Skilled) Training with almost 100 staff participating in 2024/25. Trauma informed approaches already aligned closely with the ethos of the service, but the additional training has highlighted opportunities to build on existing good practice, not only in terms of working with service users but also in supporting colleagues. Staff from E,H&I were invited to the Trauma Informed and Responsive Renfrewshire Steering Group to present on how the training has benefitted them and how they have implemented the learning. 31 March 2025 Engage and participate in trauma informed and responsive Renfrewshire programme. Work has been undertaken to engage with services to identify opportunities for digitisation and business improvement of our processes so that they continue to meet and exceed the needs of our customers. 31 March 2025 Work with Services across EH&I to support further digitisation and business improvement of our processes to meet the needs of our customers.
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level DELIVERING THE COUNCIL PLAN – CROSS CUTTING THEME IMPROVING OUTCOMES FOR CHILDREN AND FAMILIES “Across all of our work and all of our efforts, we hope for loving and happy lives for Renfrewshire’s children - working together to get it right for children, families and communities – protecting, learning, achieving and nurturing. Every priority of this Council Plan will contribute to improving the lives of Renfrewshire’s children and their families. It is our fundamental duty as an organisation and our shared responsibility as citizens of this place to ensure that our children inherit a Renfrewshire where their wellbeing is nurtured, their futures are bright, and their environment is safe and healthy.’ Progress UpdateStatusDue DateWhat we will do Head of Housing (or nominated representative) continues to be a member Renfrewshire’s Promise Strategic Oversight Group. There continues to be ongoing connection and dialogue between The Promise Manager and the Homeless & Housing support Services Manager. There is currently activity taking place to review the Throughcare Partnership Agreement. The new draft agreement has been updated to reflect the inclusion of “care leavers in the transition of moving on from local authority care”. 31 March 2025 EH&I will work towards keeping The Promise
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level DELIVERING THE SERVICE IMPROVEMENT PLAN – LIVING OUR VALUES Explanation of performance 2024/25Q4Q3Q2 Q1 2024/252023/242022/23Current Status Indicator ValueValueValueValueValueTargetTargetValueTargetValue The Tenant’s Support Fund in addition to additional service provision in the form of Specialist Income Advice to allow for exclusive support to tenants experiencing financial hardship. Legislative changes allowed recommencement of legal procedures as part of recovery action. There is an established officers working group to develop improvements including ongoing training and development of staff in addition to proactive work in conjunction with partner services to maximise rental income. In light of cost-of-living pressures on households and the Department for Work and Pensions Universal Credit Migration Plans, which includes the transition of legacy benefits such as Income Support and Employment Support Allowance, it is expected that pressures will continue in rent collection. 7.1%7.1%9.12%8.89%7.95%7.5%7.5%8.32%7.5%9.28% Gross rent arrears (all tenants) as at 31 March each year as a percentage of rent due for the reporting year. Rent collected continues to be slightly better than target.100.7%100.7%98.9%98.4%99.5%98%98%100.42%98%100% Rent collected as percentage of total rent due in the reporting year. The Single Voids Team implemented measures to minimise the time taken to re-let properties.37.2735.5235.0739.4237.63535350.406060.59 Average length of time taken to re-let properties in the last year (in days)
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level DELIVERING THE SERVICE IMPROVEMENT PLAN – LIVING OUR VALUES Explanation of performance 2024/25Q4Q3Q2Q1 2024/252023/242022/23Current Status Indicator ValueValueValueValueValueTargetTargetValueTargetValue The Single Voids Team reduced the volume of voids and therefore void rent loss. 1.30%1.30%1.42%1.53%1.58%1.8%1.8%1.45%1.8%1.86%Percentage of rent loss due to voids Awaiting on Quarter 4 figure from HRTBCTBC4.063.584.15TBCTBC14.9113.715 Number of workdays lost through sickness absence per full time equivalent (FTE) employee (cumulative) Environment, Housing & Infrastructure dealt with 645 Freedom of Information requests in 2024/25, of which 636 (98.6%) were responded to within timescale. 215 of these requests were cross departmental and 430 were departmental. 98.6%99.2%98%97%99%100%100%100%100%99% % of FOI Requests completed within timescale by EHI Environment, Housing & Infrastructure received 6,659 members enquiries in 2024/25, of which 89.2% were responded to within timescale. 89.2%92%89%94%92%85%85%92%85%93% % of Members enquiries completed within timescale by EHI
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level DELIVERING THE SERVICE IMPROVEMENT PLAN – LIVING OUR VALUES Explanation of performance 2024/25Q4Q3Q2Q1 2024/252023/242022/23Current Status Indicator ValueValueValueValueValueTargetTargetValueTargetValue Environment, Housing & Infrastructure received 10,820 front line resolutions in 2024/25, of which 62.3% were responded to within timescale. 62.3%84.2%68%58%40%85%85%85%85%87% % of frontline resolution complaints dealt with within timescale by EHI* Environment, Housing & Infrastructure received 361 complaint investigations in 2024/25, of which 50.4% were responded to within timescale. 50.4%64.5%47%40%45%85%85%89%95%93% % of investigation complaints dealt with within timescale by EHI* A number of staff are undertaking training relevant to their roles and qualifications which are either required or significantly support their work. This includes Modern Apprenticeships in Regulatory Services, Trainee Environmental Health Officer and a Trainee Food Safety Officer. Other staff have undertaken training to maintain competencies through participation in continuing professional development. 100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100% Training – Percentage of staff training undertaken in relation to qualifications (Public Protection)
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Title can go here • Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level EHI SERVICE IMPROVEMENT PLAN For more information, please contact: Douglas.morrison@renfrewshire.gov.uk Outturn Report May 2025