Agenda reports pack
Argyll and Bute Council · 11 June 2025
Back to Oban Lorn & The Isles Area Committee — 11 June 2025 and its agenda
Text extracted from the council's PDF. Layout and reading order may differ from the original.
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Argyll and Bute Council Comhairle Earra-Ghàidheal Agus Bhòid Executive Director: Douglas Hendry Kilmory, Lochgilphead, PA31 8RT Tel: 01546 602127 Fax: 01546 604435 DX 599700 LOCHGILPHEAD 3 June 2025 NOTICE OF MEETING A meeting of the OBAN LORN & THE ISLES AREA COMMITTEE will be held in the ON A HYBRID BASIS ON MICROSOFT TEAMS AND IN AN ROTH, CRAIGNURE, ISLE OF MULL on WEDNESDAY, 11 JUNE 2025 at 11:00 AM, which you are requested to attend. Douglas Hendry Executive Director BUSINESS 1. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE 2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST 3. MINUTES (a) Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee - 12 March 2025 (Pages 3 - 12) (b) Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Community Planning Group - 14 May 2025 (Pages 13 - 22) (c) Oban Common Good Fund - 17 March 2025 (Pages 23 - 26) 4. PUBLIC QUESTION TIME 5. AREA PERFORMANCE REPORT - FQ4 2024/25 (Pages 27 - 60) Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Customer Support Services 6. ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE UPDATE (Pages 61 - 64) Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Roads and Infrastructure Services 7. ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL SECONDARY SCHOOLS ATTAINMENT REPORTS (a) Oban High School (Pages 65 - 92) Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Education (b) Tiree High School (Pages 93 - 114) Public Document Pack
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Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Education (c) Tobermory High School (Pages 115 - 134) Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Education 8. ARGYLL & BUTE HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE PARTNERSHIP PERFORMANCE REPORT (Pages 135 - 150) Report by Interim Head of Strategic Planning, Performance and Technology, Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership 9. AREA COMMITTEE MEETINGS 2025-26 (Pages 151 - 154) Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Legal and Regulatory Support 10. CHARITABLE TRUSTS, BEQUEST AND TRUST FUNDS (a) Charitable Trusts, Bequests and Trust Funds - Award Recommendations (Pages 155 - 160) Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Legal and Regulatory Support E1 (b) Report Appendices (Pages 161 - 164) REPORTS FOR NOTING 11. DRAFT OBAN, LORN AND THE ISLES AREA COMMITTEE WORKPLAN (Pages 165 - 168) The Committee will be asked to pass a resolution in terms of Section 50(A)(4) of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 to exclude the public for items of business with an “E” on the grounds that it is likely to involve the disclosure of exempt information as defined in the appropriate paragraph of Part I of Schedule 7a to the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973. The appropriate paragraph is:- Paragraph 6 Information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (other than the authority). Oban Lorn & The Isles Area Committee Councillor Kieron Green Councillor Amanda Hampsey Councillor Willie Hume Councillor Andrew Kain (Vice-Chair) Councillor Jim Lynch Councillor Luna Martin Councillor Julie McKenzie (Chair) Councillor Andrew Vennard Contact: Karen Campbell, Senior Committee Assistant - 01631 567855
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MINUTES of MEETING of OBAN LORN & THE ISLES AREA COMMITTEE held in the ON A HYBRID BASIS ON MICROSOFT TEAMS AND IN THE SEIL ISLAND COMMUNITY HALL, ELLENABEICH, PA34 4RQ on WEDNESDAY, 12 MARCH 2025 Present: Councillor Julie McKenzie (Chair) Councillor Kieron Green Councillor Amanda Hampsey Councillor Willie Hume Councillor Andrew Kain Councillor Jim Lynch (Item 4 onwards) Councillor Luna Martin (Item 5 onwards) Attending: Melissa Stewart, Democratic Services Manager, Legal & Regulatory Services Michelina MacLellan, St Columbas Primary Head Teacher Marcy MacGillivray, Dunbeg Primary Head Teacher Rachel Binnie, Education Manager Douglas Whyte, Housing Strategy Manager Tom Murphy, Operations Manager, Roads and Infrastructure Nick Lowden, Assistant Operations Manager, Roads and Infrastructure Colin Young, Transport Planner, Roads and Infrastructure 1. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE An Apology for absence was received from Councillor Andrew Vennard. 2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST There were no declarations of interest intimated. 3. MINUTES (a) Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee - 11 December 2025 The Minute of the meeting of the Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee, held on 11 December 2024 was approved as a correct record. (b) Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Community Planning Group - 12 February 2025 The Minute of the meeting of the Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Community Planning Group, held on 12 February 2025 was noted. 4. PUBLIC QUESTION TIME Question 1 and 2 - Phil Hammerton 1. How, and by whom, are decisions made regarding ornamental gardening on Council land such as roundabouts and other public areas? Page 3 Agenda Item 3a
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The Chair responded there is a delegation to the Director of Development and Infrastructure within the Council’s Scheme of Administration and Delegations “To manage the parks, gardens, playing fields, open spaces and other recreational facilities, swimming pools and public halls provided or operated by the Council and to take such action as may be necessary. That might typically include planting, and providing it is contained within allocated budgets, this would be an operational matter for the service to determine. There was also policy decision taken at a previous budget 2015/16 to cease the maintenance of shrub and rose beds resulting in most of these areas becoming grassland maintenance. There are a few locations where third sector partners came on board with the service to a number of rose and shrub beds to retain them. The Amenity Services Team are always open to working with third sector partners to retain and where possible improve local services. 2. What are the plans for the reinstatement of the shrubbery removed from the E side of the Corran Halls (between the Car Park and the front entrance) to allow the erection of the marquee for the 2024 Mod? The Clerk read out a response received indicating that the Operations manager and Network and Standards manager will be assessing the area during the coming months and will engage with all necessary parties to plan any future works required and establish a longer term maintenance plan. Mr Hammerton asked if any proposals for the reinstatement of the shrubbery be shared with this Committee, or members of the Community such as the Community Council or Keeping Oban Beautiful when assessing the area or will the public have no locus or involvement in this decision? The Chair stated that the public are always welcome to feed into any proposals but as it is an operational matter it would be directly with the department. Question 3 – Alison Rennie Could I ask for an update on progress with the schedule of clearance and repair works in connection with flood prevention in the Black Lynn since the last meeting? The Clerk advised that she understood that the service may have provided an update already to Ms Rennie but to include in the minutes the response was read out: “The department have undertaken clearance works from the burn such as removing trolleys and other similar items, which people have irresponsibly thrown in. The Japanese Knotweed removal will begin via our specialist contractor in May which is the best time of year to do these works because in the winter months the knotweed can lie dormant. We are looking at options for dredging the burn and are currently doing a hydrological modelling exercise to see what affect various proposals might have Page 4
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Plans to cut back shrubs/scrub/trees along the burn when we can – you can only do works in watercourses at certain times of year depending on approval from SEPA due to waterborne species, spawning etc”. Mrs Rennie stated that she had received correspondence from Mark Calder but these were the proposals, and she was looking for information on which proposals had commenced. The Clerk agreed to take this question back to Mark Calder and that she would respond to Ms Rennie after the meeting. Question 4 – Ross Wilson You will recall at your September 2024 meeting I asked if Councillors were content with the Council's Policy which requires the public to have the Council's approval to take photographs in Argyll & Bute Harbour Authority areas. Locally this currently applies to part of Oban Bay. I did not receive an answer. At your December meeting I again asked the question as an answer was not provided under matters arising from the September meeting. Your response recorded in the minutes is: "she would require more clarity on the Policy in question before she could give an answer". The Chair advised that she would get the Clerk to read out the response from the department and then ask the Local Members present their view on the policy. The Clerk stated “the position is that this is a general rule which the Council need to have within their port management rules. The reason being the need to have the power to prevent people taking photographs if there is, for example, an accident at one of the council owned sites where someone has been injured or killed etc., or where something else sensitive is happening that we would not want people taking photos of. It is therefore an exercisable power that we use in circumstances which are ultimately dictated by common sense. The Council do however need to have it written into the rules such that if anyone was to challenge the Council in a situation like the above we have something to point to. It is not a general rule and would not ever be used to prevent someone from, to quote the example used, taking pictures of their family at a harbour”. The Chair stated that she was content with the policy, however, if a member of the public came up with an amendment to the policy, she would be happy to look at it, but as it stands, it is a fairly robust policy and she is content as to why the policy exists. Councillor Hampsey agreed with the Chair and understood the need for the policy being enforced in certain circumstances, to not allow someone to take a photograph on a family day out would be over the top. However, as the Chair mentioned, she would also be happy to look at any amended proposals. Councillors Kane, Green and Hume all confirmed that they were content with the Policy. Mr Wilson was not content with the response, commenting that general photography is allowed but the policy says no photography. I’m asking how do the public know that the policy is in place, how it is advertised, there are no signs on the pier? Page 5
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The Chair asked Mr Wilson if he would like signage along with the Policy placed on the piers? To which Mr Wilson replied it was the Councillors’ call as they had made the Policy. The Chair responded that she had not personally made the policy, however, all the Councillors present today confirm they are content with the policy and how it would be given effect to by officers. Mr Wilson was not satisfied with the response and asked that this be noted. Question 5 – Mr Norman Bissell Would members of the Area Committee support the request of the visual artists' sub- group of the Isle of Luing Community Trust to rent space for artists and crafters in the mothballed Luing Primary School? This would be of great benefit to the ongoing development of arts and crafts on the Isle of Luing and would help to maintain the building until such times as the school is reopened. The chair advised that this was delving into the realms of an operational matter, but in principle she would be happy to support anyone or any group wanting to rent the school for community purposes, but there is a process to through with the education department for the rental of a school. Councillor Hampsey agreed with the Chair’s point of view subject to detail. Councillor Green also endorsed what the Chair had said and would be supportive of any initiative that used the school building for the benefit of the community of Luing. Question 6 – Andrew Ireland Are members aware of the scale of concerns/opposition to the two proposed windfarms at Cruach Clenamachrie and Corr Chnoc amongst their constituents and if so what steps to the consider they can take for example a joint public meeting? The chair advised that she was aware of the proposals for the windfarms but had not received much representation from constituents thus far. Councillor Hampsey advised that she had not received a great deal of communication in her inbox so far but was very aware of the proposals for these windfarms and others, but would be cautious in getting involved at this stage as she sits on the planning committee. Councillor Green advised like Councillor Hampsey, he to sits on the planning committee as Chair, and therefore, it would be inappropriate to give any views one way or another at this time. Although the proposal is sitting with the Scottish Government, the planning committee has a role as a statutory consultee. He advised he is aware of the number of wind farm proposed locally and also aware of the views. He advised that all options will be open when the applications come to committee for a decision. Councillor Kain advised that, in principle, he was in favour of any renewed or new power generation, although wind farms can be contentious but the reality is we do need new power generation across the Country not just Argyll and Bute. Page 6
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Councillor Hume agreed with Councillor Kain and stated we do need more power generation whether it is wind farms or hydro. Councillor Lynch, who had just joined the meeting, advised that he was aware of the concerns and would be happy to go to a public meeting. He took the point that windfarms are really important but added that a perspective from communities as to how they would be impacted would be required. Mr Ireland asked all members present to look at the responses on the Energy Consents Unit website for each of these two developments and consider the number and content of opposition, and indeed supportive opinions that have been made to date. The Chair advised that she was happy to do so. Question 7 – Mary Braithwaite Luing Community Council How do we get a stainless steel bollard removed from the conservation village area of Luing, which was installed a few months ago, frustratingly without any consultation with Luing Community Council and at cost to the council when it’s not viewed as being necessary? Tom Murphy, Operations Manager, agreed to take this question away and pass it to his colleagues in the Network & Standards team to discuss purpose with them and will feed the response back through the Clerk. Question 8 – Phil Hammerton What actions are available to the Council with regards to the housing emergency, when it comes to second homes, short term lets and less obvious self-catering accommodation? Douglas Whyte from the Council’s housing services advised that the Council had imposed a 200% Council Tax rate on second homes in April, that there was an empty homes levy also of 200% and an Empty Homes Officer to provide advice and support throughout the area. Funding had been secured through Shelter and the HSCP to employ an Empty Homes Officer to get empty homes back habitable for use for NHS workers, so far, work has been carried out in Coll and Tiree, which has seen three properties back for accommodation use. We are also working with the Luing Community Trust where second homeowners on Luing have been written to try to persuade that they let their properties long term. The Council have also had a significant number of Short Term Let applications that they are working through, there is the ability to create pressure areas where short term lets would need planning permission, but unfortunately, that is not within my remit, but I would imagine that this is something that the Council would look at in the future, depending on the number of application and the pressure on the existing housing stock. Page 7
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Mr Hammerton then asked how and when would the Council make a decision about a consultation process before a controlled area could be put in place, with regards to short term lets? Mr Whyte agreed to take that question away to the appropriate department for response. Mr Hammerton then asked what would the members of the Area Committee support by way of action to address this problem? The Chair advised that these decisions would not take place at an Area Committee it would be a delegation to another Committee. Mr Hammerton noted that there were members of those other committees attending and asked what is their view. The Chair responded that it would be inappropriate to invite those members to address that question when sitting as an Area Committee and that it would be better to approach the Councillors directly out with the Area Committee meeting. Question 9 - Mary Braithwaite Luing Community Council has been working with the Luing Heritage Group and have noticed an increase in the electoral role after introduction of the 200% Council Tax levy on second homes. What steps can the Council take to avoid this? Also, the empty homes on Luing, there is a social landlord property which has not been occupied for some time and this is a delicate issue on the island, is there a way for the Council to work with the Community Council to address some of these issues? The Chair advised that Social Housing is a matter for the Housing Associations to control. She encouraged Luing Community Council to get in touch with her to facilitate a conversation. Question 10 - Jannette McSkimming I would like to ask the committee about the distress and anxiety caused within the tourism sector, particularly the bed and breakfast establishments with regards to the legislation within the visitor levy, and proposals for collection. It is very worrying that we could be put out of business. Is there any way the Councillors could address some of the content within the legislation? The Chair advised that she is very aware of the level of concern across Argyll and Bute to the proposed visitor levy. However, at this stage it is just a draft proposal and is out for consultation, and she would encourage everyone to feed into that consultation. It is her hope that the consultation will inform the direction that the Council takes in terms of whether we even have a levy. It is important to stress that nothing is set in stone. She is aware of the vast amount of misinformation online that suggests that things have already been decided, but I reiterate that this is not the case. The Chair advised she was hearing a lot of different views from her constituents, and it is her role as a councillor to take a balanced view going forward. Councillor Lynch re-enforced what the Chair had said, and added it was important to emphasise that it is a draft proposal and we really need to listen to what people are Page 8
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telling us through the consultation, which is why it is such a lengthy consultation period. He is also receiving different views from his constituents. It is certainly a decision that will need to be pondered over for a period of time as it would be a big change. He also encouraged everyone to put their views in the consultation stating that the council need opinions on what people want to see changed as part of this. Jannette added that there were two big information groups online and asked if the Committee members would participate on those?. The Chair stated that she would not be engaging with these online forums due to the level of criticism and ridicule that has been aimed at her in the past, which has not been healthy. Councillor Hampsey advised that she had voted against the consultation as she personally thought the legislation was fundamentally flawed and the consultation would tell her exactly what she knew already, the majority of people were against the introduction of a levy in the area. She also highlighted that there would be impact on islander workers such as NHS and HSCP which she felt should be granted exemptions. Councillor Hume advised that he did vote for the consultation as he thought it was important for everyone to have a view and for these views to be collated and studied. However, it is not cast in stone. He felt that islanders who perhaps had to stay on the mainland should not be subject to the levy as they are not tourists, and that he is also receiving lots of correspondence from islanders that workers will not come to the islands to carry out work as they too will be charged. Councillor Hampsey added that when the levy was first mentioned she was open minded and didn’t mind the concept of its application for genuine visitors but that the legislation was where the problem lay. Question 11 - Willie Munro, Seil and Easdale Community Council We continue to be frustrated with the generic email we have to use when reporting such things as potholes etc, when we used to contact a specific officer, is there any way that this can be simplified or made easier? Tom Murphy advised that the introduction of the generic email was so that all complaints/requests could be captured, and the system would co-ordinate these requests and avoid duplication, or frustration experienced when officers were not in the office and could not pick up on requests directed to them. Mr Murphy suggested that if more than one request they should be put to the generic inbox individually as these might require attention from different parts of the service. Mr Munro asked if the council could respond to the request to use of a bit of the side of the road for the Smiley Face Speed Board, as they had had to use someone’s private garden to erect these signs and it would have been easier to get the permission from the council to avoid this? Tom Murphy said he would take this away and respond through the Clerk. Page 9
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Question 12 – Alison Rennie Why is the Caravan Site at Gallanach Mor in Oban still able to operate when it is in breach of planning enforcement, it has been open all winter with new cabins arriving on site? The Chair advised that would be something that could not be answered today but a response could be sought from the planning service. Councillor Green confirmed that this matter was coming to the planning committee at their meeting next week. 5. PRIMARY SCHOOL UPDATE The Committee gave consideration to a report and a presentation which provided a range of key information about primary school provision in the Oban, Lorn and the Isles area during the school session June 2024 to January 2025 and reported the national collection of attainment and achievement data from June 2024. Also highlighted were a number of awards received by Lismore, St Columbas, Easdale and Taynuilt primary schools who were involved in initiatives and interventions; and Rockfield Primary School Shinty Team who won the Ferguson Transport and Shipping National Shinty Tournament in Fort William recently. Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee noted the information provided within the report and presentation. (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Education, dated March 2025, submitted) 6. AREA PERFORMANCE REPORT - FQ3 2024/25 The Committee gave consideration to the Area Performance Report for financial quarter 3 of 2024/25 (October to December 2024) which illustrated the agreed performance measures for this period. Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee noted the performance and supporting commentary as presented. (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Customer Support Services, dated 12 March 2025, submitted) 7. ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE UPDATE The Committee gave consideration to a report which provided links to the recent activities of Roads and Infrastructure Services. Decision Page 10
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The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee noted the contents of the report. (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Roads and Infrastructure Services, dated 12 March 2025, submitted) 8. HOUSING SERVICES ACTIVITY UPDATE- STRATEGIC HOUSING INVESTMENT PLAN UPDATE (SHIP) Consideration was given to a report which provided an update on Housing Services activity and the delivery of the Local Housing Strategy within the Oban, Lorn and the Isles area. Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee noted the contents of the report. (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Development and Economic Growth, dated January 2025, submitted) 9. ACTIVE TRAVEL PROGRESS REPORT 2024-25 The Committee gave consideration to a report which provided an update on the progress made in 2024/25 in relation to active travel projects in the Oban, Lorn and the Isles area, and sought continued support for the projects from Members. Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee: 1. welcomed the progress made to date across a significant number of active travel projects by the small Active Travel Team. 2. supported the continuation of the projects and the submission of future funding applications to external challenge funds to continue to develop design and construction stages in order to deliver these projects. 3. supported the allocation of the Tier 1 active travel funding element in the Council’s 25/26 block grant to the development and delivery of appropriate active travel projects, including those already underway in OLI, and 4. instructed Officers to continue to identify and develop new active travel projects to benefit local residents, businesses and communities. (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Development and Economic Growth, dated 3 February 2025, submitted) 10. CHARITABLE TRUSTS, BEQUESTS & TRUST FUNDS (a) Miss Agnes Angus Bequest - Distribution of Funds The Committee considered a report on the distribution of funds in respect Page 11
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of the Miss Agnes Angus Bequest which had originally been established for “purposes of public utility and for the benefit and advantage of the community of Oban”. Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee:- 1. agreed to allocate the funding available from the Miss Agnes Angus Bequest for use at Mossfield Stadium; and 2. requested that officers bring forward proposals for improvements at Mossfield Stadium, to a future meeting of the Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee, before the end of 2025. (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Roads and Infrastructure Services, dated February 2025, submitted) (b) John of Lorn Bequest Fund The Committee gave consideration to a report providing information on the number of applications that have been received for support from the John of Lorn Bequest. Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee noted the number of awards made from the John of Lorn Bequest since the last meeting of the Area Committee in September 2024. (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Legal and Regulatory Support dated February 2025, submitted) 11. DRAFT OBAN, LORN AND THE ISLES AREA COMMITTEE WORKPLAN The Committee gave consideration to the Area Committee workplan for future meetings. Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee noted the contents of the workplan. (Reference: Area Committee Workplan, dated 12 March 2025, submitted) Page 12
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MINUTES of MEETING of OBAN LORN & THE ISLES COMMUNITY PLANNING GROUP held in the BY MICROSOFT TEAMS on WEDNESDAY, 14 MAY 2025 Present: Colin Buchanan (Chair) Stuart McLean, Committee Manager, Argyll and Bute Council Councillor Kieron Green, Argyll and Bute Council Councillor Willie Hume, Argyll and Bute Council Councillor Andrew Kain, Argyll and Bute Council Kirsty McLuckie, Community Development, Argyll and Bute Council Inspector Matthew Shaw, Police Scotland Tony McGloin, Scottish Fire and Rescue Sarah Peacock, Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership George Turner, Scottish Ambulance Service Lynsey O’Neil, Oban High School Maureen Evans, Community Learning Services, Live Argyll Jim Tolmie, Oban District Access Panel Catriona Petit, Hope Kitchen Duncan Martin, Oban Community Council Petra Pearce, Argyll and Bute Third Sector Interface Andy MacPherson, Argyll and Bute Climate Action Network Mary Braithwaite, Luing Community Council Jane Metcalf, Coll Community Council Joan Best, Crossroads Attending: Jacqueline Westerman, Home Energy Efficiency Officer, Argyll and Bute Council Rona Gold, Community Development, Argyll and Bute Council John McLuckie, Community Development, Argyll and Bute Council Megan McWilliam, National Islands Plan Officer,Scottish Government Kirsty MacKenzie, Carers Act Officer, Argyll and Bute Council The Chair ruled and Partners agreed to alter the order of business of the Agenda by taking Item 8, the White Meter Removal after consideration of the Minutes of the previous meeting. 1. WELCOME AND APOLOGIES The Chair welcomed everyone to the meeting and general introductions were made. Apologies for absence were intimated on behalf of: Councillor Julie McKenzie Lucy Sumsion, National Farmers Union Scotland Peter Bain, Oban High School Page 13 Agenda Item 3b
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2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST There were no declarations of interest intimated. 3. MINUTES (a) Oban, Lorn and the Isles Community Planning Group 12 February 2025 The Minute of the Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Planning Group meeting held on 12 February 2025 was approved as a correct record. 4. WHITE METER REMOVAL The Group heard from Jacqueline Westerman, Home Energy Efficiency Project Officer, regarding the ongoing White Meter Removal initiative. Miss Westerman advised that Energy Suppliers have had five years to implement the removal of White Meters and replace these with Smart Meters and that this has proved a slow process especially in rural areas. The message for householders is to contact their energy supplier as soon as possible as losing the Radio Teleswitch without a smart meter, will result in the higher tariff being applied. Scammers are taking advantage of the fact that energy companies are being slow to roll out the switch over and anyone with concerns should contact Home Energy Scotland for free and impartial advice. Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Community Planning Group noted the information referenced within the presentation. 5. NATIONAL ISLANDS PLAN The Group heard a comprehensive presentation from Megan McWilliams on the development and renewal of the Scottish Government National Islands Plan for Scotland. Megan provided the background to the Plan from the Islands Scotland (2018) to the Scottish Islands Survey Report in September 2024. Megan advised that the current national islands plan overarching objective is to improve outcomes for island communities and features 13 strategic objectives with over 130 commitments. Whereas, the new National Island Plan seeks to be a more agile document, with fewer strategic objectives with a focus on additionality, fewer commitments and a clear allocation of responsibilities. Partners noted that there is dedicated resource and capital budget to support the implementation of the Plan and that investments delivered to date include over £15 million capital since 2021-2022 through the Islands Programme, 71 projects on 51 islands supported. Francesco further advised that since December 2022 £3.4 million had been awarded through the Islands Cost Crisis Emergency Fund. There was a question and answer session and it was noted that the PowerPoint presentation will be provided to the area community planning group. Page 14
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Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the contents of the presentation. (Reference: Presentation by Megan McWilliams, Scottish Government, dated 14 May 2025) 6. COMMUNITY PLANNING PARTNERSHIP MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE MEETING HIGHLIGHTS The Group gave consideration to a report which outlined matters discussed during a meeting of the Community Planning Partnership (CPP) Management Committee held on 16 April 2025. The report also provided information on the Community Planning Self-Assessment Draft Improvement Plan; the next steps for the Argyll and Bute Outcomes Improvement Plan 2024-2034; the CPP Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan; CPP Community Wealth Building (CWB) Short Life Steering Group; the Community Justice Partnership; Community Learning and Development (CLD) Strategic Partnership Plan; a demonstration of the Aspiring Places Platform and guidance feedback on Fair Funding. Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the contents of the report. (Reference: Report by John McLuckie, Partnerships Lead, dated 14 May 2025, submitted) 7. TRANSPORT The Group gave consideration to a presentation from the Community Development Team, Argyll and Bute Council which highlighted actions being taken to tackle transport issues in Argyll and Bute. The Community Development Team advised that they would circulate reflective questions regarding transport provision within the locality and encouraged Partners to respond to these at their leisure. Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Community Planning Group considered, discussed and noted the contents of the presentation. (Reference: Presentation by the Community Development Team dated 14 May 2025) 8. PARTNER UPDATES (a) Police Scotland Update Page 15
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The Group gave consideration to a report highlighting Police Scotland’s priorities for the Oban, Lorn and Isles area which covered serious and organised crime; crimes of theft and dishonesty; road safety and road crime; violent crime and public protection. Inspector Shaw highlighted that there is a Motor Cycle Safety Event on Sunday 18th May in the Carpark in Inveraray and that following feedback from partners on agricultural crime that future update will refer to this. Following MP and MSP correspondence concerning Taynuilt Pier, there is a plan for Police to engage with the Local Authority, Land Owners and Community to try to alleviate concerns and that the search for a missing woman on Mull is ongoing. Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the contents of the report. (Reference: Report by Police Scotland, dated April 2025, submitted) (b) Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Update The Group gave consideration to a report highlighting the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s (SFRS) FQ4 review of local performance across Oban, Lorn and the Isles for the period 2024/25. The report included information on the local firefighter training plan; accidental dwelling fires; wild fires; community engagement and Local Senior Office activities and the new home fire safety visit referral application. Mr McGloin also advised that a Service Delivery Review had been undertaken with 23 options going forward to a public consultation which will open at the end of June 2025 and will remain so for 12 weeks. Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the contents of the report. (Reference: Report by Scottish Fire and Rescue Service dated January to March 2025, submitted) (c) UHI Argyll Update Consideration was given to a written update from UHI Argyll. The update included information on an open week held in March; Modern Apprenticeship Programme; new short courses including Business Finance, Digital Skills for beginners, Developing Skills for Employment and Everyday English; commercial courses in Elementary Food Hygiene and Scottish Certificate for Personal Licence Training and preparations are underway for the Academic Year for 2025-2026. Decision Page 16
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The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. (Reference: Report by UHI Argyll dated 25 April 2025, submitted) (d) Argyll and Bute Citizens Advice Bureau Consideration was given to a written update from Citizens Advice Bureau. The update included information on advice provision and advice areas during February, March and April 2025; volunteer recruitment and services provided with the Bureau; and Outreach Locations within the area. Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. (Reference: Report by Citizens Advice Bureau dated May 2025, submitted) (e) Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership Public Health Update Consideration was given to a public health update from Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership’s Public Health Team on the ongoing wellbeing and prevention activities overseen and delivered by them in Argyll and Bute. The update provided information regarding Mental Health Awareness and Suicide Prevention Training; Free condoms by post; Speakeasy training and screening inequalities. The update also highlighted that 5 sector organisations were awarded small grants in 2024/25 to increase knowledge and understanding of national screening programmes, so people can make an informed choice and provided information on how they the organisations are using the money to promote screening. A question concerning a Policy change with regards to Carers in the Community was raised, which Sarah Peacock confirmed that she would respond to. Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Community Planning Group noted the information provided. (Reference: Report by Health Improvement Lead, Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership, dated May 2025, submitted) (f) Argyll and Bute Third Sector Interface (TSI) Update Consideration was given to an update from Petra Pearce from Argyll and Page 17
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Bute TSI. The update included information in relation to the Chief Executive lobbying of the Scottish Government on third sector issues such as fair funding; investment in prevention and public sector reform. Petra further advised that the community mental health fund now offers two years of funding rather than one. Information on upcoming events including a joint event with Scottish Poverty Alliance and the Annual Volunteer of the Year awards which are listed on the TSI events webpage were also referenced. Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. (Reference: Report by Argyll and Bute TSI, dated April 2025, submitted) (g) Health and Wellbeing Network Update Consideration was given to an update on the New Oban, Lorn and the Isles Health and Wellbeing Network, from Catriona Petit, which started afresh on 1st April, information on how to become a member is included in the update;. Catriona also advised that a public event will take place at the end of the Summer and will focus on what the aspirations of the Network will be. The Group noted that Carol Flett’s role within the Network will change slightly and that her contact details were referenced within the update. Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Community Planning Group noted the information. (Reference: A report by Oban, Lorn and the Isles Health and Wellbeing Network dated 1 May 2025, submitted) (h) Argyll and Bute Community Development Funding Connections Verbal Update Kirsty McLuckie provided information on an upcoming ‘Funding Connections’ event that will be held in the Rockfield Centre, Oban on 19 June 2025 which will introduce Argyll and Bute Council’s new Aspiring Places Initiative. Kirsty advised that the event is focused on bringing together Community Groups and Third Sector Groups, TSI and various Council Teams, Community Development Team, Team coordinating the Community-Led Local Development Fund and Empty Business Property Support. Kirsty also added that there will also be an Aspiring Places Project Gallery and if any Partners would like to see their project feature in the gallery to follow this link Aspiring Places. (Reference: Verbal Update, Argyll and Bute Council, Community Page 18
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Development, May 2025) (i) Opportunity for Verbal Updates Becky Hothersall – Poverty Alliance Becky advised that Poverty Alliance host quarterly meet-ups for any local or regional organisations where the cost of living is relevant to their work and that the next event is being held on Tuesday 27 May from 10.30- 12.30 via Zoom, future events can be found via the following link - A&B participation calendar. Becky advised that the Poverty Alliance also co-ordinate a citizens' panel of people from across Argyll and Bute with experience of living on a low income or having high costs due to their rural location. The Panel aims to create opportunities for people with lived experience to be more involved in decision making. Becky encouraged Partners to contact her via e-mail (Becky.hothersall@povertyalliance.org) should they have any questions. Catriona Petit – Hope Kitchen Catriona advised of a new steering group which was established to start a new Development Trust in Oban and is looking for members to join; a new Recovery Group is starting on Monday 19th May in Sadie’s Hall, Stevenson Street for peer to peer support on Alcohol and Drug problems, a launch of this group will take place on Saturday 17th May at Station Square, Oban from 1pm – 4pm. 9. CLIMATE CHANGE (a) Climate Change Resilience Group Update (Short Life Working Group) Colin Buchanan gave an update on progress made by the Short Life Working Group. The Chair confirmed that he had written to all Community Councils within the locality and that 2 had responded. Colin further advised that all the Community Council’s resilience plans are out of date and require to be updated and that he would welcome anyone that would like to be involved in the work of the Group to contact him, specifically Community Council representatives. (Reference: Verbal Update from Chair of the Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Community Planning Group, May 2025) (b) Argyll and Bute Climate Action: Developing a Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan for Argyll and Bute Page 19
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Consideration was given to a report providing an update on the Community Planning Partnership’s Climate Change Strategy. It was noted that the Project Manager was seeking further recommendations for groups to engage with and to inform of further development of the action plan. Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Community Planning Group: 1. noted the approach and status of the project outlined within the report; and 2. agreed to provide comments and feedback to the Project Manager (andy@actnow.org.uk) following the meeting. (Reference: Report by Chair of the Climate Change Action Group dated 30 April 2025, submitted) (c) Opportunity for Verbal Updates on community based initiatives Live Argyll Miss Evans advised that a group of young people have got together to set up a group and will hopefully be in a position to to attend the next Community Planning Group meeting. Catriona Petit – Hope Kitchen Miss Petit advised that funding has been sought to enable the premises used by Re-Store to be purchased by Hope Kitchen. 10. COMMUNITY FOCUS (a) Carers Scotland Act 2016 Kirsty MacKenzie gave an overview of the Carers Scotland Act 2016. The presentation provided information on the National Carer Strategy which sets out the commitment to support and involve carers as an equal partner; prioritising needs at different levels and the Council’s statutory responsibilities to unpaid carers. Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles considered the information provided within the presentation. (Reference: Presentation by Kirsty MacKenzie, Carers Act Officer, Argyll and Bute Council, dated 14 May 2025, submitted) Page 20
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(b) Crossroads Joan Best gave a presentation on what services Crossroads provides within the Oban, Lorn and the Isles area. Joan advised that support is given to unpaid carers with particular reference to Respite support which can be from a couple of hours to a week, this allows them time to themselves. Providing support for the cared-for can include taking them out for a drive, lunch or a walk, or various activities if they cannot leave the house. Joan advise that 95% of the people Crossroads supports are living with some kind of dementia diagnosis with activities tailored to their needs; there is a Monday group which is for bereaved cares and cared-for; a new group has started for the Gypsy Traveller community; referrals are received from a number of agencies such as Social Work, GPs and District Nurses; 123 unpaid carers are supported each week, with 12 on the waiting list, 245 hours of respite care per week are offered; staff travel around 700 miles per week and that funding comes from partly the HSCP through the Carers Act Funding and The National Lottery, Shared Care Scotland’s Creative Breaks, Argyll and Bute Third Sector Interface – Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund, The Crerar Trust and various other local groups. Decision The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Community Planning group noted the information provided within the presentation. (Reference: Presentation by Joan Best, Manager Crossroads, dated 14th May 2025, submitted) 11. DATE OF NEXT MEETING - WEDNESDAY 13 AUGUST 2025 The Group noted that the next meeting of the Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Community Planning Group would take place on Wednesday 13th August 2025. Page 21
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MINUTES of MEETING of OBAN COMMON GOOD FUND held BY MICROSOFT TEAMS on MONDAY, 17 MARCH 2025 Present: Councillor Julie McKenzie (Chair) Councillor Kieron Green Councillor Amanda Hampsey Attending: Melissa Stewart, Democratic Services Manager 1. WELCOME AND APOLOGIES Apologies were intimated by Councillor Jim Lynch Marri Malloy, Observer Rev. Margi Campbell, Observer Fr. James MacNeil, Observer 2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST There were no declarations of interest intimated. 3. MINUTES (a) Minutes of Oban Common Good Fund Meeting held on 11 November 2024 The minutes of the Oban Common Good Fund meeting held on 11 November 2024 were approved as a correct record. (b) Minutes of Special Oban Common Good Fund Meeting held on 17 December 2024 The minutes of the Special Oban Common Good Fund meeting held on 17 December 2024 were approved as a correct record. The Trustees resolved in terms of Section 50(A)(4) of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 to exclude the press and public for the following items of business on the grounds that it was likely to involve the disclosure of exempt information as defined in Paragraph 6 respectively of Part 1 of Schedule 7A to the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973. E1 4. INCOME AND EXPENDITURE A financial statement detailing the current position of investment transaction for the period up to 31 January 2025 was considered. Decision Page 23 Agenda Item 3c
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The Trustees noted the income and expenditure report. (Reference: Report by Simmers & Co for period ending 31 January 2025, submitted) E1 5. END OF PROJECT MONITORING (a) Home Start Lorn The Trustees were invited to consider the End of Project Monitoring Form from Home Start Lorn. Decision The Trustees noted the end of project report. (Reference: End of Project Monitoring Form, submitted) E1 6. CONTINUED APPLICATIONS (a) Oban Community Council The Trustees considered the updated information submitted from Oban Community Council. Decision The Trustees unanimously agreed that members of the Oban Community Council should be invited to the next meeting of the Oban Common Good Fund, to discuss the project. (Reference: information by Oban Community Council, submitted) E1 7. NEW APPLICATIONS (a) Kenneth Steven The Trustees considered the application submitted by Kenneth Steven. Decision: After careful consideration it was unanimously agreed to refuse the application as the Trustees agreed it was not consistent with their criteria. (Reference: Application submitted by Kenneth Steven) (b) Naoko Mabon The Trustees considered the application submitted by Naoko Mabon. Decision: Page 24
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The Trustees unanimously agreed to delegate to the Democratic Services Manager, in consultation with the Chair, ability to award up to £1000 towards the overall project costs, subject to further information coming forward from the applicant regarding final costs which are consistent with the funds criteria. (Reference: Application submitted by Naoko Mabon) (c) Nevis Community Radio The Trustees considered the application submitted by Nevis Community Radio. Decision: It was agreed to make an interim award of £4463 and to further continue the application to the next meeting, inviting the applicants to attend and provide more information on costings and plans for local involvement. (Reference: Application submitted by Nevis Community Radio) (d) North Argyll Eventide Home The Trustees considered the application submitted by North Argyll Eventide Home. Decision: It was unanimously agreed to award the amount of £5000, to be released subject to receiving confirmation that the project is fully funded. (Reference: Application submitted by North Argyll Eventide Home) (e) Oban Cub Scouts The Trustees considered the application submitted by Oban Cub Scouts. Decision: It was unanimously agreed to award the amount of £2000. (Reference: Application submitted by Oban Cub Scouts) (f) Oban Festive Lights The Trustees considered the application submitted by Oban Festive Lights. Decision: It was unanimously agreed to award the amount of £6318.12. Page 25
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(Reference: Application submitted by Oban Festive Lights) (g) The Traditional Music & Song Association of Scotland (Glasgow Branch) The Trustees considered the application submitted by The Traditional Music and Song Association of Scotland. Decision: It was unanimously agreed to award the amount of £500.00 to support the planned workshops, with a further payment of £1000 to support other elements of the wider event, to be released subject to receiving confirmation that the project is fully funded. (Reference: Application submitted by The Traditional Music and Song Association of Scotland) 8. DATE OF NEXT MEETING It was agreed that the next meeting of the Oban Common Good Fund would take place on Monday, 12th May 2025 at 2pm. Page 26
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1 Classification: OFFICIAL ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL OBAN, LORN AND THE ISLES AREA COMMITTEE CUSTOMER SUPPORT SERVICES 11 JUNE 2025 AREA PERFORMANCE REPORT – FQ4 2024/25 1.0 BACKGROUND 1.1 This paper presents the Area Performance Report for Financial Quarter 4 2024/25 (January – March 2025) and illustrates the agreed performance measures. 1.2 The features of the Performance Report are as follows:- Indicators are grouped by Corporate Outcome. The data table for each indicator is coded to identify the level of reporting. o Area level measures are blue o Council level measures are grey o COI measures are white Each indicator details the o Target, Actual and Performance status (Green / Red / No Target) for the current and four previous financial quarters. o Commentary for the current financial quarter only. o Narrative explaining the performance trend e.g. This indicator is above Target and performance has improved since the last reporting period. o Where appropriate a Performance Trend Line has been added. o The name of the Responsible Officer. o Where possible performance is presented at both Area and Council level. 1.3 The commentary for each indicator helps ‘Tell Our Story’ and enables Elected Members to put the performance data into perspective and understand if an issue is local in nature or should be escalated up to a Strategic Committee. 1.4 As part of our improvements to performance reporting and making best use of the digital technology available to us, the information contained in this report is also available in your online scorecard. If support is required to navigate the online scorecard please contact lorna.gillies@argyll-bute.gov.uk 1.5 To improve the response to performance queries, it is requested that should there be any queries that either the Responsible Person or Kay Owen are contacted. This should enable some queries being resolved or clarified prior to the Area Committee meeting, and therefore being carried forward as Actions at a subsequent meeting. Page 27 Agenda Item 5
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2 Classification: OFFICIAL 2.0 RECOMMENDATIONS 2.1 It is recommended that the Area Committee – a) Notes and considers the performance and supporting commentary as presented. 3.0 IMPLICATIONS 3.1 Policy All of the indicators in this report are based on agreed Council policy. 3.2 Financial All indicators with financial implications are actively managed through agreed budget monitoring processes. 3.3 Legal All appropriate legal implications are complied with. 3.4 HR All HR implications are actively managed through agreed Wellbeing and Management monitoring processes. 3.5 Fairer Scotland Duty See below. 3.5.1 Equalities All activities comply with Equal Opportunities/Fairer Scotland Duty policies and obligations. 3.5.2 Socio-economic Duty All activities comply with the council’s socio- economic duty. 3.5.3 Islands Duty All activities comply with the council’s islands duty. 3.6 Climate Change The Council is committed to working towards net zero. 3.7 Risk Without this information Elected Members are less informed of activities within their area. 3.8 Customer Service All activities with customer feedback or insight are rigorously monitored for improvement. 3.9 The Rights of the Child This report highlights examples of how the Council is (UNCRC) committed to, and working towards reducing child poverty and improving outcomes for every child. Kirsty Flanagan, Executive Director with responsibility for Customer Support Services Jane Fowler Head of Customer Support Services 8 May 2025 For further information, please contact: Kay Owen Team Lead - Organisation Development Project Office - Customer Support Services 01546 604073 Appendix 1: FQ4 2024/25 OLI Performance Report Page 28
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# Indicator Responsible Person Reported Page COI - Maximise distribution of Scottish Welfare Fund Fergus Walker A&B only 3 COI - Percentage of clients satisfied that they are better able to deal with their financial problems following our support and intervention Lee Roberts A&B only 4 Number of parking penalty notices issued Hugh O'Neill Area 5 Car parking income to date (cumulative) Hugh O'Neill Area 6 - 7 Number of dog fouling complaints Tom Murphy Area 8 COI - Increase the percentage of our care experienced young people that have the recommended additional tracking and monitoring plans in place Louise Chisholm A&B only 9 COI - Provide quality meals within cost margins to all pupils Christine Boyle A&B only 10 Maximise the percentage of 16-19 year olds participating in education, training or employment Jennifer Crocket Area 11 2024/25 FQ4 Oban, Lorn and the Isles Performance Report The information presented is a summary of the agreed measures. Unless stated otherwise, performance is presented at both Area and Council-wide levels. The measure shows the performance against target for the current previous three reporting periods with an explanation of performance trend. Where appropriate a trend line has been added to illustrate movement in 'Actual' over the reporting period. Corporate Outcome: People live active, healthier and happier lives Corporate Outcome: People live in safer and stronger communities Corporate Outcome: Children and young people have the best possible start Corporate Outcome: Education, skills and training maximises opportunities for all Page 29
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# Indicator Responsible Person Reported Page Number of affordable social sector new builds completed per annum Kelly Ferns Area 12 Percentage of pre-planning application enquiries processed within 20 working days Peter Bain Area 13 - 14 Average number of weeks to determine householder planning applications Peter Bain Area 15 - 16 COI - Number of new homeless applicants who required temporary accommodation this period Morven Macintyre A&B only 17 COI - Maintain the percentage of local suppliers that benefit from the award of contracts via the procurement portal Anne MacColl-Smith A&B only 18 COI - Increase the number of community benefits that are delivered through contracts we award locally Anne MacColl-Smith A&B only 19 Percentage of street lighting faults repaired within 10 days Tom Murphy Area 20 Number of waste collection complaints Tom Murphy Area 21 - 22 COI (part) - Percentage of waste recycled, composted and recovered John Blake Area 23 - 24 COI - Number of tonnes of waste sent to landfill John Blake A&B only 25 COI - LEAMS (Local Environment Audit and Management System) Tom Murphy Area 26 - 27 COI - Teacher sickness absence Jennifer Crocket (B&C and MAKI) Wendy Brownlie (H&L and OLI) Area 28 COI - LGE staff (including non-Teacher) sickness absence Carolyn Cairns Area 29 COI - Increase the percentage of all self-service automated contacts Robert Miller A&B only 30 Corporate Outcome: We have an infrastructure that supports sustainable growth Corporate Outcome: Making it happen Corporate Outcome: Our economy is diverse and thriving Page 30
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ4 Commentary 2024/25 FQ4 A&B 95.3% 78.0% -17.3% Red - Actual below Target As at 31 March 2025, our expenditure for the year stands at £549,136. This represents an underspend of £159,148 of our budgeted profiled amount. Comparing 2024/25 to 2023/24 we received 357 less applications for support and spend was £113,014 less. This decline is part of a broader trend observed across Scotland. Recent statistics up to September 2024 indicate a general decrease in both applications and spending on SWF, encompassing both Crisis Grants and Community Care Grants. Period Actual FQ3 Commentary 2023/24 FQ4 128.6% 2024/25 FQ1 94.0% 2024/25 FQ2 72.9% 2024/25 FQ3 79.7% 2024/25 FQ4 78.0% Corporate Outcome - People live active, healthier and happier lives COI - Maximise distribution of Scottish Welfare Fund Responsible Person: Fergus Walker This indicator is a Corporate Outcome Indicator that is reported quarterly. The performance presented is Council-wide only. This indicator for FQ4 is lower than the target and performance has decreased since the last reporting period. Actual trend line As at 31 December 2024 , our expenditure stands at £423,302. This represents an underspend of £107,914 of our budgeted profiled amount. To date the number of applications is down by 10% compared to the same period last year, however the average award amount has increased by almost £50. As in previous years we expect an increase in both applications and awards in the final quarter of this year. 3 Page 31
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ4 Commentary 2024/25 FQ4 A&B 100% 100% 0% Green - Actual meets Target This is a voluntary survey with no obligation for clients to respond either in full or in part. It is also common for incomplete returns to be received. In FQ4 2024/25, 11 survey forms were distributed to clients. 10 were returned. Of these 10 returns, 7 responded to the question relating to being better able to deal with their financial problems. Of these 7 respondents, 7 responded positively, whilst 0 responded negatively. Accordingly, 100% of clients that responded were positive about their experience i.e. no negative comments or responses were reported. Period Actual FQ3 Commentary 2023/24 FQ4 100% 2024/25 FQ1 100% 2024/25 FQ2 100% 2024/25 FQ3 100% 2024/25 FQ4 100% Actual trend line This is a voluntary survey with no obligation for clients to respond either in full or in part. It is also common for incomplete returns to be received. In FQ3 2024/25, 17 survey forms were distributed to clients. 9 were returned. Of these 9 returns, 8 responded to the question relating to being better able to deal with their financial problems. Of these 8 respondents, 8 responded positively, whilst 0 responded negatively. Accordingly, 100% of clients that responded were positive about their experience i.e. no negative comments or responses were reported. Corporate Outcome - People live active, healthier and happier lives COI - Percentage of clients satisfied that they are better able to deal with their financial problems following our support and intervention Responsible Person: Lee Roberts This indicator is a Corporate Outcome Indicator that is reported quarterly. The performance presented is Council-wide only. This indicator for FQ4 meets the target with no change in performance since the last reporting period. 4 Page 32
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ4 Commentary 2024/25 FQ4 OLI No Target 490 N/A N/A No particular issues in area although Oban town centre lining continues to deteriorate. Transport (Scotland) Act prohibitions (pavement parking, dropped kerb & double parking) enforcement began on March 3rd. Period Actual FQ3 Commentary 2023/24 FQ4 493 2024/25 FQ1 527 2024/25 FQ2 603 2024/25 FQ3 402 2024/25 FQ4 490 2024/25 FQ4 A&B No Target 1,253 N/A N/A Recruitment and training of two new Amenity Wardens has resulted in them beginning enforcement through the quarter in MAKI & H&L, tempered by loss of Warden in H&L area. Transport (Scotland) Act prohibitions (pavement parking, dropped kerb & double parking) enforcement began on March 3rd. Period Actual FQ3 Commentary 2023/24 FQ4 1,196 2024/25 FQ1 1,763 2024/25 FQ2 2,302 2024/25 FQ3 968 2024/25 FQ4 1,253 This indicator for FQ4 shows the number of parking penalty notices has increased since the last reporting period. Actual trend line Up from last FQ3. Oban has remained busy throughout and this has impacted breaches in the TROs Corporate Outcome - People live in safer and stronger communities Number of parking penalty notices issued Responsible Person: Hugh O'Neill This indicator is reported quarterly. The performance presented is at area level and Council-wide. This indicator for FQ4 shows the number of parking penalty notices has increased since the last reporting period. Actual trend line Decrease on previous FQ3 but within general range. 5 Page 33
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ4 Commentary 2024/25 FQ4 OLI £613,041 £661,959 £48,918 Green - Actual exceeds Target Over-recovery over the full year. The success of OLI as a destination clearly having a significant impact on parking income. Period Target Actual FQ3 Commentary 2023/24 FQ4 £685,489 £604,034 2024/25 FQ1 £135,968 £170,527 2024/25 FQ2 £374,563 £418,913 2024/25 FQ3 £534,793 £582,699 2024/25 FQ4 £613,041 £661,959 £1,537 £11,913 £1,118 £1,588 £30,564 £2,622 £3,539 £5,176 £3,344 £5,583 £10,498 £1,038 £417 £20 £304 £79,261 Corporate Outcome - People live in safer and stronger communities Car parking income to date (cumulative) Responsible Person: Hugh O'Neill This indicator is reported quarterly. The performance presented is at area level and Council-wide. This indicator for FQ4 shows the cumulative amount of income has exceeded the cumulative target. Actual trend line There is no trend as this data is cumulative as of FQ1 each financial year. An increase in income but generally on track. Albany Street, Oban Oban Tweedale Street, Oban Market Street, Oban Esplanade, Oban Craignure, Mull Income Collected During FQ4 Corran No.1, Oban North Pier, Oban Corran No.2 Oban Longsdale, Oban Non-trunk, Oban Lochavullin, Oban Ganavan, Oban Trunk, Oban Fionnphort, Mull Total 6 Page 34
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ4 Commentary 2024/25 FQ4 A&B £963,049 £1,011,360 £48,311 Green - Actual exceeds Target Income has exceeded forecast. This may be due to focussed enforcement within the areas by the wardens, including the two new wardens, in combination of the new machines allowing multiple payment modes. Period Target Actual FQ3 Commentary 2023/24 FQ4 £968,262 £937,090 2024/25 FQ1 £289,219 £247,216 2024/25 FQ2 £373,922 £391,990 2024/25 FQ3 £237,910 £248,502 2024/25 FQ4 £963,049 £1,011,360 Car parking income to date (cumulative) Responsible Person: Hugh O'Neill This indicator is reported quarterly. The performance presented is at area level and Council-wide. This indicator for FQ4 shows the cumulative amount of income has exceeded the cumulative target. Actual trend line There is no trend as this data is cumulative as of FQ1 each financial year. An increase in income but generally on track with targets. Corporate Outcome - People live in safer and stronger communities 8 Page 36
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ4 Commentary 2024/25 FQ4 OLI No Target 14 N/A N/A A total of 14 dog fouling complaints were made this quarter for the OLI area, 13 being received for Lorn and 1 for Mull Period Actual FQ3 Commentary 2023/24 FQ4 10 2024/25 FQ1 8 2024/25 FQ2 4 2024/25 FQ3 9 2024/25 FQ4 14 2024/25 FQ4 A&B No Target 75 N/A N/A Unfortunately the number of dog fouling complaints has risen this quarter with 75 received in total. It is hoped that over the next quarter this number will fall. The Warden service will, when time allows. continue to monitor. Period Actual FQ3 Commentary 2023/24 FQ4 65 2024/25 FQ1 57 2024/25 FQ2 33 2024/25 FQ3 65 2024/25 FQ4 75 This indicator for FQ4 shows the number of dog fouling complaints has increased since the last reporting period. Corporate Outcome - People live in safer and stronger communities Number of dog fouling complaints Responsible Person: Tom Murphy This indicator is reported quarterly. The performance presented is at area level and Council-wide. Actual trend line A total of 9 dog fouling complaints were received this quarter for the Oban, Lorn and Isles areas. The 9 complaints were all received for the Lorn area, there were no complaints received for Mull. This indicator for FQ4 shows the number of dog fouling complaints has increased since the last reporting period. Actual trend line A total of 65 dog fouling complaints were received for the whole of Argyll and Bute this quarter. This may seem high, however it has been found that dog fouling can be seasonal with spikes in dark nights and dark mornings with a lot of dog walkers refraining from walking their dogs off the beaten tracks in the winter months. The warden service will continue to monitor as and when time allows. 9 Page 37
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ4 Commentary 2024/25 FQ4 A&B 100% 100% 0% Green - Actual meets Target Each care experienced child and young person (CECYP) enrolled in an authority school has tracking and monitoring in place via our education management system, known as Seemis. Data collected includes attendance, exclusions, progress and attainment and wellbeing information. We work alongside schools and partner agencies to ensure care experienced status is accurate, ensuring our CECYP have additional supports in place via the Virtual School and wider agencies as appropriate. Our bespoke care experience application which will further enhance our monitoring for our CECYP is currently in the final stage before testing phase begins. We continue to work with partner agencies and other local authorities to support CECYP hosted out with Argyll and Bute. Period Actual FQ3 Commentary 2023/24 FQ4 100% 2024/25 FQ1 100% 2024/25 FQ2 100% 2024/25 FQ3 100% 2024/25 FQ4 100% Actual trend line Each care experienced child and young person (CECYP) enrolled in an authority school has tracking and monitoring plans in place via our education management information system known as Seemis. Data collated includes attendance, exclusion, progress and attainment and wellbeing information. We are continouosly working alongside schools and partner agencies to ensure the CE status is accurately reflected. Enhanced reporting and scrutinising of data, alongside greater awarness of our CECYP, has led to earlier and positive intervention. This is evidenced through our attainment data which shows a reduced learning gap between CE and non-CE learners since 2021 -22 (with both cohorts showing increased attainment). We continue to work with partner agencies to support cross authority tracking and monitoring to support CECYP hosted out with Argyll and Bute. Corporate Outcome - Children and young people have the best possible start COI - Increase the percentage of our care experienced young people that have the recommended additional tracking and monitoring plans in place Responsible Person: Louise Lawson This indicator is a Corporate Outcome Indicator that is reported quarterly. The performance presented is Council-wide only. This indicator for FQ4 meets the target with no change in performance since the last reporting period. 10 Page 38
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ4 Commentary 2024/25 FQ4 A&B +/-5.00% -2% -3% Green - Actual exceeds Target We will continue to monitor schools that are not achieving the +/- 5% target. B&C 3.93%, H&L -4.48%, MAKI -7.51%, OLI 1.09%) Period Actual FQ3 Commentary 2023/24 FQ4 -3.44% 2024/25 FQ1 0.48% 2024/25 FQ2 -1.37% 2024/25 FQ3 0.14% 2024/25 FQ2 -2.25% Corporate Outcome - Children and young people have the best possible start COI - Provide quality meals within cost margins to all pupils Responsible Person: Christine Boyle This indicator is a Corporate Outcome Indicator that is reported quarterly. The performance presented is Council-wide only. This indicator for FQ4 within the +/-5.00% variance however performance has decreased since the last reporting period. Actual trend line We continue to monitor schools that are not achieving the +/- 5% target. B&C 6.21, H&L -3.88%, MAKI -4.58%, OLI 1.68% 11 Page 39
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ4 Commentary 2024/25 FQ4 OLI 94.00% 93.40% -0.60% Red - Actual below Target As of 11th April 2025 the participation figure (16–19-year-olds in employment, training or education) in Oban, Lorn and the Isles was 906 young people, which equates to 93.40%. This is 0.6% belowthe target and 0.9% below the annual Argyll and Bute participation figure of 94.3% which was released by Skills Development Scotland at the end of August 2024. The participation figure of 93.40% for FQ4 of 2024/25 is a decrease of 1.67% on the participation figure for FQ3 of 2024/25. Period Actual FQ3 Commentary 2023/24 FQ4 94.43% 2024/25 FQ1 95.57% 2024/25 FQ2 96.14% 2024/25 FQ3 95.07% 2024/25 FQ4 93.40% 2024/25 FQ4 A&B 94.00% 93.50% -0.50% Red - Actual below Target As of 11th April 2025 the participation figure (16–19-year-olds in employment, training or education) across the whole of Argyll and Bute was 3408 young people, which equates to 93.50%. This is 0.5% below the target and 0.8% below the annual Argyll and Bute participation figure of 94.3% which was released by Skills Development Scotland at the end of August 2024. The participation figure of 93.50% for FQ4 of 2024/25 is a decrease of 0.69% on the participation figure for FQ3 of 2024/25. Period Actual FQ3 Commentary 2023/24 FQ4 93.59% 2024/25 FQ1 94.99% 2024/25 FQ2 95.80% 2024/25 FQ3 94.19% 2024/25 FQ4 93.50% This indicator for FQ4 is lower than the target and performance has decreased since the last reporting period. Corporate Outcome - Our economy is diverse and thriving Maximise the percentage of 16-19 year olds participating in education, training or employment Responsible Person: Jennifer Crocket This indicator is reported quarterly. The performance presented is at area level and Council-wide. Actual trend line As of 3rd February 2025 the participation figure (16–19-year-olds in employment, training or education) across the whole of Argyll and Bute was 3921 young people, which equates to 94.19%. This is 0.19% above the target and 0.11% below the annual Argyll and Bute participation figure of 94.3% which was released by Skills Development Scotland at the end of August 2024. The participation figure of 94.19% for FQ3 of 2024/25 is a decrease of 1.61% on the participation figure for FQ2 of 2024/25. Actual trend line As of 3rd February 2025 the participation figure (16–19-year-olds in employment, training or education) in Oban, Lorn and the Isles was 1023 young people, which equates to 95.07%. This is 1.07% above the target and 0.77% above the annual Argyll and Bute participation figure of 94.3% which was released by Skills Development Scotland at the end of August 2024. The participation figure of 95.07% for FQ3 of 2024/25 is a decrease of 1.07% on the participation figure for FQ2 of 2024/25. This indicator for FQ4 is lower than the target and performance has decreased since the last reporting period. 12 Page 40
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ4 Commentary 2024/25 FQ4 OLI 1 1 0 Green - Actual meets Target West Highland Housing Assoication completed new supply open market purchase of property in Kilmelford. Period Actual FQ3 Commentary 2023/24 FQ4 0 2024/25 FQ1 0 2024/25 FQ2 6 2024/25 FQ3 0 2024/25 FQ4 1 2024/25 FQ4 A&B 1 1 0 Green - Actual meets Target There was no Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) completions in FQ4, however West Highland Housing Association (WHHA) concluded on new supply open market purchase in Kilmelford which increases supply of affordable housing. There has been delays to West Highland Housing Association developments at Port Charlotte (phase 1) and Imerval (Phase 5) on Islay due to issues with bringing hot tar to the Island to complete roads, bad weather, ferry disruption and issues with Scottish Southern Energy Networks. Period Actual FQ3 Commentary 2023/24 FQ4 0 2024/25 FQ1 12 2024/25 FQ2 26 2024/25 FQ3 6 2024/25 FQ4 1 Corporate Outcome - Our economy is diverse and thriving This indicator for FQ4 meets the target and performance has increased since the last reporting period. Actual trend line There were no completions in OLI in FQ3. Number of affordable social sector new builds completed per annum Responsible Person: Kelly Ferns This indicator is reported quarterly. The performance presented is at area level and Council-wide. This indicator for FQ4 meets the target however performance has decreased since the last reporting period. Actual trend line Fyne Homes completed 6 x 3 bed general needs properties at Baddens, Lochgilphead in FQ3 13 Page 41
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ4 Commentary 2024/25 FQ4 OLI 75.0% 83.3% 8.3% Green - Actual exceeds Target Performance across the Development Management Service is still being recovered and impacted upon by the management of a significant backlog of casework. Overall output and performance across the service is improving as staff resource issues have been resolved. However, timeliness measures continue to be adversely impacted through the prioritisation of older statutory 'legacy' casework for determination. The target for the handling of pre-application enquiries has been set to 30 days although this change has not yet been reflected in the format of corporate reporting. During FQ4 42 pre-applications were responded to within Oban, Lorn and the Isles. 35 responses (83.3%) were issued within 20 days; 41 responses (98%) were issued within the revised target of 30 days. The performance of the OLI team in regularly exceeding the performance target is commendable. Period Actual FQ3 Commentary 2023/24 FQ4 87.5% 2024/25 FQ1 87.5% 2024/25 FQ2 84.6% 2024/25 FQ3 84.2% 2024/25 FQ4 83.3% This indicator for FQ4 exceeds the target however performance has decreased since the last reporting period. Corporate Outcome - Our economy is diverse and thriving Percentage of pre-planning application enquiries processed within 20 working days Responsible Person: Peter Bain This indicator is reported quarterly. The performance presented is at area level and Council-wide. Actual trend line Performance across the Development Management Service is still being recovered and impacted upon by the management of a significant backlog of casework. Overall output and performance across the Service is improving as staff resource issues have been resolved, however timeliness measures continue to be adversely impacted through the prioritisation of older statutory 'legacy' casework for determination. In order to assist with managing customer expectations the target response period has been temporarily extended to 6 weeks. During FQ3 38 pre-apps were closed in OLI with over 80% being issued within 6 weeks continuing a period of impressive performance from the OLI team. 14 Page 42
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ4 Commentary 2024/25 FQ4 A&B 75.0% 58.5% -16.5% Red - Actual below Target Performance across the Development Management Service is still being recovered and impacted upon by the management of a significant backlog of casework. Overall output and performance across the service is improving as staff resource issues have been resolved. However, timeliness measures continue to be adversely impacted through the prioritisation of older statutory 'legacy' casework for determination. The target for the handling of pre-application enquiries has been set to 30 days although this change has not yet been reflected in the format of corporate reporting. During FQ4 118 pre-applications were responded to across Argyll and Bute. 69 responses (58.5%) were issued within 20 days; 75 responses (64.1%) were issued within the revised target of 30 days. Period Actual FQ3 Commentary 2023/24 FQ4 55.0% 2024/25 FQ1 49.5% 2024/25 FQ2 49.2% 2024/25 FQ3 48.3% 2024/25 FQ4 58.5% Actual trend line Performance across the Development Management Service is still being recovered and impacted upon by the management of a significant backlog of casework. Overall output and performance across the Service is improving as staff resource issues have been resolved, however timeliness measures continue to be adversely impacted through the prioritisation of older statutory 'legacy' casework for determination. In order to assist with managing customer expectations the target response period has been temporarily extended to 6 weeks. There continues to be a backlog of pre-application enquiries within the BCHL team which is impacting upon overall Service performance although many of the open enquiries are in fact progressing with ongoing dialogue. During FQ3 123 pre-apps were closed aross ABC. Please find links below for supplementary information on performance in this area: PPSL Committee - Development Management Performance Update: https://www.argyll- bute.gov.uk/moderngov/documents/s215679/DM%20Performance%20Update%202024-25%20FQ3%20PB%2010.01.2025.pdf Appendix 1: https://www.argyll- bute.gov.uk/moderngov/documents/s215680/Appendix%201%20DM%20Performance%20Update%20FQ3%202425.pdf This indicator for FQ4 is lower than the target however performance has increased since the last reporting period. Corporate Outcome - Our economy is diverse and thriving Percentage of pre-planning application enquiries processed within 20 working days Responsible Person: Peter Bain This indicator is reported quarterly. The performance presented is at area level and Council-wide. 15 Page 43
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ4 Commentary 2024/25 FQ4 OLI 8.0 7.9 -0.1 Green - Actual below Target Performance across the Development Management Service has been impacted by a significant backlog of casework. Whilst issues relating to staff resource availability have been resolved and output has significantly improved it is highlighted that KPI's measuring average time taken remain adversely affected by the resolution of increasing volumes of 'legacy' casework. The Council's target for 'householder' applications has been revised to 10 weeks although this is not yet reflected in the format of corporate reports. During FQ4 only a handful of 'householder' 'legacy' items remained, this has resulted in a general improvement across this particular performance measure. During FQ4 19 'householder' applications were determined in Oban, Lorn and the Isles and did not include any 'legacy' items and is reflected in the excellent performance reported for this period. Period Actual FQ3 Commentary 2023/24 FQ4 5.2 2024/25 FQ1 7.9 2024/25 FQ2 6.1 2024/25 FQ3 7.5 2024/25 FQ4 7.9 This indicator for FQ4 is lower than the target and performance has decreased since the last reporting period. Actual trend line Performance across the Development Management Service has been impacted by a significant backlog of casework. Whilst issues relating to staff resource availability have been resolved and output has significantly improved it is highlighted that KPI's measuring average time taken are adversely affected by the resolution of increasing volumes of 'legacy' casework which significantly skew reporting, particularly at area level where this relates to a small number of applications. During FQ3 13 'householder' applications were determined in OLI; however none of of these were 'legacy' items. The average time period of 7.5 weeks is a positive reflection of the efforts of the OLI team during this reporting period. Corporate Outcome - Our economy is diverse and thriving Average number of weeks to determine householder planning applications Responsible Person: Peter Bain This indicator is reported quarterly. The performance presented is at area level and Council-wide. 16 Page 44
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ4 Commentary 2024/25 FQ4 A&B 8.0 14.2 6.2 Red - Actual exceeds Target Performance across the Development Management Service has been impacted by a significant backlog of casework. Whilst issues relating to staff resource availability have been resolved and output has significantly improved it is highlighted that KPI's measuring average time taken remain adversely affected by the resolution of increasing volumes of 'legacy' casework. The Council's target for 'householder' applications has been revised to 10 weeks although this is not yet reflected in the format of corporate reports. During FQ4 only a handful of 'householder' 'legacy' items remained, this has resulted in a general improvement across this particular performance measure. During FQ4 68 'householder' applications were determined across Argyll and Bute including 8 'legacy' items and is reflected in the significant improvement in performance reported for this period. Excluding 'legacy' items, the remaining 60 applications were determined within an average time of 9.9 weeks. Period Actual FQ3 Commentary 2023/24 FQ4 20.0 2024/25 FQ1 16.1 2024/25 FQ2 26.1 2024/25 FQ3 15.9 2024/25 FQ4 14.2 Corporate Outcome - Our economy is diverse and thriving Average number of weeks to determine householder planning applications Responsible Person: Peter Bain This indicator is reported quarterly. The performance presented is at area level and Council-wide. This indicator for FQ4 exceeds the target however performance has increased since the last reporting period. Actual trend line Performance across the Development Management Service has been impacted by a significant backlog of casework. Whilst issues relating to staff resource availability have been resolved and output has significantly improved it is highlighted that KPI's measuring average time taken are adversely affected by the resolution of increasing volumes of 'legacy' casework which significantly skew reporting, particularly at area level where this relates to a small number of applications. During FQ3 60 'householder' applications were determined across all of ABC; these included 7 'legacy' items. Excluding the'legacy' items the average time taken to determine the other 53 applications was 10.2 weeks. Please find links below for supplementary information on performance in this area: PPSL Committee - Development Management Performance Update: https://www.argyll- bute.gov.uk/moderngov/documents/s215679/DM%20Performance%20Update%202024-25%20FQ3%20PB%2010.01.2025.pdf Appendix 1: https://www.argyll- bute.gov.uk/moderngov/documents/s215680/Appendix%201%20DM%20Performance%20Update%20FQ3%202425.pdf 17 Page 45
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ4 Commentary 2024/25 FQ4 A&B No Target 30 N/A N/A During FQ4, the housing service took 108 homeless applications and provided temporary accommodation for 30 new homeless households. B&C: Out of 28 Homeless Applications, 10 new households went in to temporary accommodation (4 x Serviced Accommodation, 4 x Bed & Breakfast, 2 Private Sector Lease). H&L: Out of 30 Applications, 8 new households went in to temporary accommodation (1 x Serviced Accommodation, 7 x Bed & Breakfast). MAKI: Out of 31 Homeless Applications, 4 new households went in to temporary accommodation (4 x Private Sector Lease). OLI: Out of 19 Homeless Applications, 8 new households went in to temporary accommodation (3 x Supported Accommodation, 1 x Private Sector Lease, 1 x Registered Social Landlord, 3 x Bed & Breakfast). Period Actual FQ3 Commentary 2023/24 FQ4 30 2024/25 FQ1 26 2024/25 FQ2 40 2024/25 FQ3 27 2024/25 FQ4 30 Corporate Outcome - Our economy is diverse and thriving COI - Number of new homeless applicants who required temporary accommodation this period Responsible Person: Morven Macintyre This indicator is a Corporate Outcome Indicator that is reported quarterly. The performance presented is Council-wide only. This indicator for FQ4 shows the number of applicants has increased since the last reporting period. Actual trend line During FQ3, the housing service took 90 homeless applications and provided temporary accommodation for 27 new homeless households. B&C: Out of 25 Homeless Applications, 8 new households went in to temporary accommodation (4 x Serviced Accommodation, 4 x Bed & Breakfast). H&L: Out of 22 Homeless Applications, 8 new households went in to temporary accommodation (4 x Serviced Accommodation, 2 x Bed & Breakfast, 1 x Private Sector Lease, 1 x Council Retained). MAKI: Out of 23 Homeless Applications, 7 new household went in to temporary accommodation (3 x Private Sector Lease, 4 x Bed & Breakfast). OLI: Out of 20 Homeless Applications, 4 new households went in to temporary accommodation (3 x Supported Accommodation, 1 x Serviced Accommodation). Please note: • The Registered Social Landlord and Private Rented Sector properties are leased by the Council and sub-let to homeless households as temporary accommodation. • Serviced Accommodation is available in Cowal and Helensburgh and is for single people providing an en-suite bedroom and shared kitchen facilities. • Supported accommodation is provided in Lorn by Blue Triangle Housing Association. • Emergency accommodation may on occasion be provided out with the location of the original presentation due to the pressure on the availability of temporary accommodation 0 18 Page 46
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ4 Commentary 2024/25 FQ4 A&B 20.0% 15.2% -4.8% Red - Actual below Target FQ4 - 15.2%. There were 66 tender/quick quote contract awards during FQ4. 10 were awarded to local suppliers, with a total estimated value of £78k. From the 66 awards, only 15 received local bids. The nature of the types of contracts awarded can impact on submission of local bidders. The % of tenders won by a local supplier, where a local supplier placed a bid during FQ4 was 66.7%. Period Actual FQ3 Commentary 2023/24 FQ4 14.3% 2024/25 FQ1 36.0% 2024/25 FQ2 10.5% 2024/25 FQ3 23.6% 2024/25 FQ4 15.2% COI - Maintain the percentage of local suppliers that benefit from the award of contracts via the procurement portal Responsible Person: Anne MacColl-Smith This indicator is a Corporate Outcome Indicator that is reported quarterly. The performance presented is Council-wide only. This indicator for FQ4 is lower than the target and performance has decreased since the last reporting period. Actual trend line From the 44 tender/quick quote contract awards during FQ3, 55 suppliers were successful, 13 of which were local suppliers. However, only 18 received local bids. The nature of the types of contracts awarded can impact on submission of local bidders. Of the 18 contracts, 13 were awarded to local suppliers (72.2%) with an estimated total contract value of £9.6m. The Procurement, Commercial and Contract Management Team will continue to support local suppliers by providing useful information on the Council's website. Corporate Outcome - Our economy is diverse and thriving 19 Page 47
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ4 Commentary 2024/25 FQ4 A&B No Target TBA N/A N/A The number of achieved community benefits during FQ3 and FQ4 is currently being gathered and data should be available at the end of April 2025. Period Actual FQ3 Commentary 2023/24 FQ4 37 2024/25 FQ1 - 2024/25 FQ2 31 2024/25 FQ3 - 2024/25 FQ4 TBA Actual trend line The next report covering FQ3 & FQ4 2024/25 will be available in April 2025. Corporate Outcome - Our economy is diverse and thriving COI - Increase the number of community benefits that are delivered through contracts we award locally Responsible Person: Anne MacColl-Smith This indicator is a Corporate Outcome Indicator that is reported in FQ2 and FQ4. The performance presented is Council-wide only. This indicator for FQ4 shows the number of community benefits has increased since the last reporting period. 20 Page 48
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ4 Commentary 2024/25 FQ4 OLI 75% 98% 23% Green - Actual exceeds Target Performance is good and exceeding the target. Period Actual FQ3 Commentary 2023/24 FQ4 20% 2024/25 FQ1 81% 2024/25 FQ2 96% 2024/25 FQ3 97% 2024/25 FQ4 98% 2024/25 FQ4 A&B 75% 92% 17% Green - Actual exceeds Target Performance has improved in 3 of the 4 geographical settings . A number of cable faults and works requiring contractor or power company assistance in Lomond is reflected in this quarters figures . These works take time to program and deliver. All Areas appear to benefiting from the street lighting Capital Program Works which are improving reliability of lighting in areas that were previously experiencing a higher number of faults. Period Actual FQ3 Commentary 2023/24 FQ4 49% 2024/25 FQ1 93% 2024/25 FQ2 97% 2024/25 FQ3 92% 2024/25 FQ4 92% This indicator for FQ4 exceeds the target and performance has increased since the last reporting period. Actual trend line Continued Progress with the new tablets and software has seen a marked improvement across the service area. 126 faults reported in total this quarter - a high number. At what is generally busy period for the Service and at a time when staff do take annual leave. Some assistance was provided from other areas to help with the high number of faults reported in the OLI Area. Corporate Outcome - We have an infrastructure that supports sustainable growth Percentage of street lighting faults repaired within 10 days Responsible Person: Tom Murphy This indicator is reported quarterly. The performance presented is at area level and Council-wide. This indicator for FQ4 exceeds the target and performance has increased since the last reporting period. Actual trend line Continued Progress with the new tablets and software has seen a marked improvement across the service area. 341 faults reported in total this quarter - a high number but in general we deal with more faults in FQ3 and FQ4 each year. This has been a busy quarter for the Service and at a time when staff do take annual leave. Capital Improvement Schemes will have helped deal with lighting that was that was previously unrealiable. 21 Page 49
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ4 Commentary 2024/25 FQ4 Lorn No Target 6 N/A N/A Lorn received 6 waste complaints for the months January, February, March. Period Actual FQ3 Commentary 2023/24 FQ4 2 2024/25 FQ1 7 2024/25 FQ2 4 2024/25 FQ3 3 2024/25 FQ4 6 2024/25 FQ4 Mull No Target 0 N/A N/A There were no waste collection complaints received for the Isle of Mull this month, showing excellent service by our team on the Island. Period Actual FQ3 Commentary 2023/24 FQ4 0 2024/25 FQ1 2 2024/25 FQ2 0 2024/25 FQ3 0 2024/25 FQ4 0 Corporate Outcome - We have an infrastructure that supports sustainable growth Number of waste collection complaints Responsible Person: Tom Murphy This indicator is reported quarterly. The performance presented is at area level and Council-wide. This indicator for FQ4 shows the number of waste collection complaints has remained the same since the last reporting period. Actual trend line Another excellent service provided by our team on the Isle of Mull, there were no waste collection complaints received this quarter. This indicator for FQ4 shows the number of waste collection complaints has increased since the last reporting period. Actual trend line There were only 3 waste collection complaintes received for Lorn in October, November and December, this is very good given the number of properties. 22 Page 50
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ4 Commentary 2024/25 FQ4 A&B No Target 31 N/A N/A In total 31 waste collection complaints were received for the whole of Argyll and Bute. Again the majority of the complaints were received in Helensburgh, due to vehicle breakdowns and resources. The waste team continue to deliver a very high level of service across the whole area. Period Actual FQ3 Commentary 2023/24 FQ4 7 2024/25 FQ1 38 2024/25 FQ2 26 2024/25 FQ3 36 2024/25 FQ4 31 Corporate Outcome - We have an infrastructure that supports sustainable growth Number of waste collection complaints Responsible Person: Tom Murphy This indicator is reported quarterly. The performance presented is at area level and Council-wide. This indicator for FQ4 shows the number of waste collection complaints has decreased since the last reporting period. Actual trend line In total there were 36 waste collection complaints received for the whole Argyll and Bute Council area for the months of October, November and December. The majority of which were received in the Helensburgh and Lomond area due to vehicle breakdowns and resourcing. The teams are still delivering a very high level of service to the many properties throughout the areas ensuring the domestic, recycling, glass and food waste is uplifted. 23 Page 51
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ4 Commentary 2024/25 FQ4 A&B 45.0% 63.2% 18.2% Green - Actual exceeds Target 63.2% recycling, composting and recovery (35.9% recycling/composting plus 27.3% recovery). Recovery percentage high mainly due to Helensburgh and Lomond residual waste going for refuse derived fuel/energy from waste. Recycling/composting slightly lower as reduced garden waste tonnages sent for composting during winter months. 2024/25 financial year overall figures are 67.2% recycling,composting and recovery (40.3% recycling/composting plus 26.9% recovery) which is an improvement on previous f/year which was 58.2% . Period Actual FQ3 Commentary 2023/24 FQ4 74.0% 2024/25 FQ1 68.4% 2024/25 FQ2 70.5% 2024/25 FQ3 65.4% 2024/25 FQ4 63.2% 2024/25 FQ4 Renewi No Target 46.8% N/A N/A 46.8% recycling, composting and recovery (31.5% recycling/composting plus 15.3% recovery). Recycling/composting slightly lower as reduced garden waste tonnages sent for composting during winter months. 2024/25 financial year overall figures are 54.9% recycling,composting and recovery (38.5% recycling/composting plus 16.4% recovery). Period Actual FQ3 Commentary 2023/24 FQ4 66.5% 2024/25 FQ1 56.2% 2024/25 FQ2 61.3% 2024/25 FQ3 52.4% 2024/25 FQ4 46.8% Actual trend line 65.4% recycling, composting and recovery (37.2% recycling/composting plus 28.2% recovery) . Target exceeded mainly due to high recovery levels for Helensburgh and Lomond's residual waste which now goes for refuse derived fuel (RDF) instead of landfill. Less garden waste composted during this quarter than FQ2 which is expected as green waste composting is higher during spring/summer periods. Recycling and composting rate of 37.2% is marginally higher than same quarter in previous year (which was 36.1%). This indicator for FQ4 shows the percentage of waste recycled has decreased since the last reporting period. Corporate Outcome - We have an infrastructure that supports sustainable growth COI - Percentage of waste recycled, composted and recovered Responsible Person: John Blake This indicator is reported quarterly. The performance presented is by Council-wide service provision. This indicator for FQ4 exceeds the target however performance has decreased since the last reporting period. Actual trend line 52.4% recycling, composting and recovery (35.3% recycling/composting plus 17.1% recovery) . Less garden waste composted during this quarter than FQ2 which is expected as green waste composting is higher during spring/summer periods. Recycling and composting rate of 35.3% is marginally higher than same quarter in previous year (which was 33.9%). 24 Page 52
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ4 Commentary 2024/25 FQ4 Islands No Target 49.2% N/A N/A 49.2% recycling, composting and recovery (38.7% recycling/composting plus 10.5% recovery). 2024/25 financial year overall figures are 48.1% recycling,composting and recovery (37.3% recycling/composting plus 10.8% recovery). Period Actual FQ3 Commentary 2023/24 FQ4 41.5% 2024/25 FQ1 45.8% 2024/25 FQ2 51.8%% 2024/25 FQ3 51.8% 2024/25 FQ4 49.2% 2024/25 FQ4 H&L No Target 100.0% N/A N/A 100% recycling, composting and recovery (43.7% recycling/composting plus 56.3% recovery). Recovery percentage high mainly due to Helensburgh and Lomond residual waste going for refuse derived fuel/energy from waste. Recycling/composting slightly lower than in spring/summer as reduced garden waste tonnages sent for composting during winter months.24/25 financial year overall figures are 100% recycling,composting and recovery (45.1% recycling/composting plus 54.9% recovery). Period Actual FQ3 Commentary 2023/24 FQ4 100.0% 2024/25 FQ1 100.0% 2024/25 FQ2 100.0% 2024/25 FQ3 100.0% 2024/25 FQ4 100.0% This indicator for FQ4 shows the percentage of waste recycled has decreased since the last reporting period. Corporate Outcome - We have an infrastructure that supports sustainable growth COI - Percentage of waste recycled, composted and recovered Responsible Person: John Blake This indicator is reported quarterly. The performance presented is by Council-wide service provision. Actual trend line 100% recycling, composting and recovery (43.1% recycling/composting plus 56.9% recovery) . High recovery levels for Helensburgh and Lomond's residual waste which now goes for refuse derived fuel (RDF) instead of landfill. Less garden waste composted during this quarter than FQ2 which is expected as green waste composting is higher during spring/summer periods. Recycling and composting rate of 43.1% is marginally higher than same quarter in previous year (which was 40.8%). Actual trend line 44.2% recycling, composting and recovery (31.9% recycling/composting plus 12.3% recovery) . Less garden waste composted during this quarter than FQ2 which is expected as green waste composting is higher during spring/summer periods. Recovery rate of 12.3% in quarter is higher than same quarter in previous year (which was 0%) as residual waste from Coll and Tiree now goes for refuse derived fuel (RDF) instead of landfill. This indicator for FQ4 shows the percentage of waste recycled has remained the same since the last reporting period. 25 Page 53
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ4 Commentary 2024/25 FQ4 A&B 5,000 3,103 -1,897 Green - Actual below Target Well within landfill limit target mainly due to Helensburgh and Lomond residual waste going for refuse derived fuel/energy from waste. Period Target Actual FQ3 Commentary 2023/24 FQ4 5,000 2,567 2024/25 FQ1 5,850 3,200 2024/25 FQ2 5,550 3,225 2024/25 FQ3 5,100 2,846 2024/25 FQ4 5,000 3,103 Corporate Outcome - We have an infrastructure that supports sustainable growth COI - Number of tonnes of waste sent to landfill Responsible Person: John Blake This indicator is a Corporate Outcome Indicator that is reported quarterly. The performance presented is Council-wide only. This indicator for FQ4 is lower than the target (lowest is best). Actual trend line Well within biodegradable municpal waste target for the quarter mainly due to the residual waste from Helensburgh and Lomond area now all going for refuse derived fuel (RDF)/ energy from waste (EFW) whereas this was previously sent to landfill in same quarter in 2023. 26 Page 54
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ4 Commentary 2024/25 FQ4 Lorn 73 81 8 Green - Actual exceeds Target The teams again are proving that the Lorn area may only show small amounts of detritus, litter etc with a score of 81 for the months of January, February and March. Period Actual FQ3 Commentary 2023/24 FQ4 85 2024/25 FQ1 89 2024/25 FQ2 87 2024/25 FQ3 88 2024/25 FQ4 81 2024/25 FQ4 Mull 73 96 23 Green - Actual exceeds Target The LEAMS scores for the Isle of Mull for this quarter show, January 96, February 95 and March 96, this is excellent to see the high standards being kept. Period Actual FQ3 Commentary 2023/24 FQ4 93 2024/25 FQ1 93 2024/25 FQ2 94 2024/25 FQ3 96 2024/25 FQ4 96 This indicator for FQ4 exceeds the target however performance has decreased since the last reporting period. Corporate Outcome - We have an infrastructure that supports sustainable growth COI - LEAMS (Local Environment Audit and Management System) Responsible Person: Tom Murphy This indicator is reported quarterly. The performance presented is at area level and Council-wide. Actual trend line 96 is an excellent score for the Isle of Mull with regards street cleanliness, we hope to see this standard kept up throughout the year. Actual trend line October, November and December in the Lorn area shows a high score of street cleanliness, the teams are working to ensure the area is well maintained This indicator for FQ4 exceeds the target with no change in performance since the last reporting period. 27 Page 55
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ4 Commentary 2024/25 FQ4 A&B 73 83 10 Green - Actual exceeds Target January, February and March figures show that again this quarter the street cleanliness across the whole of Argyll and Bute remains high. These figures show very little or no litter visible in the streets and or open spaces checked. This high score reflects well on the teams on the islands and mainland who are providing a good service by ensuring they work efficiently and effectively to keep the areas clean. Period Actual FQ3 Commentary 2023/24 FQ4 83 2024/25 FQ1 84 2024/25 FQ2 85 2024/25 FQ3 84 2024/25 FQ4 83 This indicator is reported quarterly. The performance presented is at area level and Council-wide. This indicator for FQ4 exceeds the target however performance has decreased since the last reporting period. Corporate Outcome - We have an infrastructure that supports sustainable growth COI - LEAMS (Local Environment Audit and Management System) Responsible Person: Tom Murphy Actual trend line The street cleanliness figure for the months of October, November and December for the whole of the Argyll and Bute Council area remains high. This means the areas scored show no or a very small amount of litter visible but not detracting from the look of the area. The teams on both the mainland and islands are providing a good service by ensuring weeds, detritus, litter, fly posting, grafitti etc are being dealt with timeously. 28 Page 56
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ4 Commentary 2024/25 FQ4 OLI No Target 2.75 N/A N/A Work days lost has remained the same as a day on the same quarter last year and has decreased by 0.12 of a day from the previous quarter. Period Actual FQ3 Commentary 2023/24 FQ4 2.75 2024/25 FQ1 2.11 2024/25 FQ2 1.96 2024/25 FQ3 2.87 2024/25 FQ4 2.75 2024/25 FQ4 A&B No Target 3.23 N/A N/A Work days lost has increased by 0.41 of a day on the same quarter last year and has increased by 0.34 of a day from the previous quarter. Period Actual FQ3 Commentary 2023/24 FQ4 2.82 2024/25 FQ1 2.14 2024/25 FQ2 1.77 2024/25 FQ3 2.89 2024/25 FQ4 3.23 This indicator for FQ4 shows the number of sickness absence days has decreased since the last reporting period. Actual trend line Work days lost has increased by 0.83 of a day on the same quarter last year and has increased by 0.91 of a day from the previous quarter. Corporate Outcome - Making it happen COI - Teacher sickness absence Responsible Person: Jennifer Crocket (B&C and MAKI) / Wendy Brownlie (H&L and OLI) This indicator is reported quarterly. The performance presented is at area level and Council-wide. This indicator for FQ4 shows the number of sickness absence days has increased since the last reporting period. Actual trend line Work days lost has increased by 0.07 of a day on the same quarter last year and has increased by 1.12 of a day from the previous quarter. 29 Page 57
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ4 Commentary 2024/25 FQ4 OLI No Target 4.31 N/A N/A Work days lost has decreased by 0.45 of a day on the same quarter last year and has decreasedby 0.22 of a day from the previous quarter. Period Acutal FQ3 Commentary 2023/24 FQ4 4.76 2024/25 FQ1 4.19 2024/25 FQ2 3.85 2024/25 FQ3 4.53 2024/25 FQ4 4.31 2024/25 FQ4 A&B No Target 4.66 N/A N/A Work days lost has increased by 0.54 of a day on the same quarter last year and has increased by 0.26 of a day from the previous quarter. Period Actual FQ3 Commentary 2023/24 FQ4 4.12 2024/25 FQ1 3.85 2024/25 FQ2 3.43 2024/25 FQ3 4.40 2024/25 FQ4 4.66 This indicator for FQ4 shows the number of sickness absence days has decreased since the last reporting period. Corporate Outcome - Making it happen COI - LGE staff (including non-Teacher) sickness absence Responsible Person: Carolyn Cairns This indicator is reported quarterly. The performance presented is at area level and Council-wide. Actual trend line Work days lost has increased by 0.67 of a day on the same quarter last year and has increased by 0.97 of a day from the previous quarter. Actual trend line Work days lost has increased by 0.09 of a day on the same quarter last year and has increased by 0.68 of a day from the previous quarter. This indicator for FQ4 shows the number of sickness absence days has increased since the last reporting period. 30 Page 58
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Period Area Target Actual Variance Status FQ4 Commentary 2024/25 FQ4 A&B 70.0% 74.8% 4.8% Green - Actual exceeds Target In FQ4 there were 39,517 customer transactions dealt with by Customer Service Agents (25.2%) and 117,568 were automated or self-service transactions (74.8%) so the 70.0% target was substantially bettered. Period Actual FQ3 Commentary 2023/24 FQ4 70.1% 2024/25 FQ1 71.6% 2024/25 FQ2 72.7% 2024/25 FQ3 82.7% 2024/25 FQ4 74.8% Corporate Outcome - Making it happen COI - Increase the percentage of all self-service automated contacts Responsible Person: Robert Miller This indicator is a Corporate Outcome Indicator that is reported quarterly. The performance presented is Council-wide only. This indicator for FQ4 exceeds the target however performance has decreased since the last reporting period. Actual trend line In FQ3 there were 33,666 customer transactions dealt with by Customer Service Agents (17.3%) and 160,491 were automated or self-service transactions (82.7%) so the 70.0% target was substantially bettered. This was largely due to the significant increase in customers using the improved Bin Day Uplift online resources. 31 Page 59
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL OBAN LORN AND THE ISLES AREA COMMITTEE ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE JUNE 2025 SERVICES ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES UPDATE 1.0 INTRODUCTION 1.1 A Roads and Infrastructure standing report was a fixture on Area Committee agendas throughout the life of the last Council. In the first two rounds of Area Committee meetings in the new Council feedback was sought on the value of these updates, and their format and frequency. Generally Members felt having a standard item was beneficial and it was acknowledged that the Roads and Infrastructure weekly briefings issued to all members each Friday afternoon provide for the main sources of live information on current activities. On top of these briefings there is a bank of resources on the new Member Zone system which include the weekly briefings, subject specific briefings, ad hoc short briefings on issues, relevant previous committee reports, operational service procedures, legislation and Council policies. 1.2 In the last Council the purpose of these reports was to provide an update on service activities but since weekly briefings these have largely superseded the original stated purpose of these reports. 1.3 On the basis of the above this new format has been agreed through the December 2022 round of area committees for this standing item. This format removes duplication for Officers and rather links to existing published information, with additional updates only in the body of the reports if these are specifically requested/noted from previous meetings. The report remains as a standing item and continues to provide the opportunity for Officer engagement at the committee meetings. 2.0 RECOMMENDATIONS It is recommended that the Area Committee: 2.1 Note and consider the contents of this report. 3.0 DETAIL 3.1 Roads and Infrastructure Services provides Members with weekly briefings on topical service activities which are all available here. Page 61 Agenda Item 6
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3.2 As part of the resources on the new Member Zone system there are various key documents available in an online library here. 3.3 There are also additional online resources covering the streetlighting, footway, surface dressing and roads reconstruction programmes available on the website here. 4.0 CONCLUSION 4.1 This report provides links to existing published information on service activities and provides for the opportunity for officer attendance and engagement at committee meetings. 5.0 IMPLICATIONS 5.1 Policy – Roads and Infrastructure work to a number of policies across the range of service areas. 5.2 Financial – revenue and capital budgets are in place to deliver projects and cyclic work. 5.3 Legal – Roads and Infrastructure Services work to a number of different pieces of legislation such as the Roads Scotland Act 194 and the Environmental Protection Act 1990. 5.4 HR – none known. 5.5 Fairer Scotland Duty: 5.5.1 Equalities - protected characteristics – where appropriate EqSEIAs will be carried out to identify any implications. 5.5.2 Socio-economic Duty – where appropriate EqSEIAs will be carried out to identify any implications. 5.5.3 Islands – where appropriate Island impacts assessments will be carried out to identify any implications. 5.6. Climate Change – due regard will be given to climate change with a view to minimising any climate change impact and these will be considered as and when they arise. 5.7 Risk – risk managed through toolbox talks, safety briefings and where appropriate risk registers – all of the above are monitored through the RIS leadership and management teams. 5.8 Customer Service – none known. Page 62
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5.9 The Rights of the Child (UNCRC) – none known. Executive Director with responsibility for Roads and Infrastructure Services, Kirsty Flanagan Policy Lead for Roads, Transport and Amenity Services, Councillor John Armour May 2025 For further information contact: Stephen Hall, Interim Head of Roads and Infrastructure Services Stephen.hall@argyll-bute.gov.uk Mark Calder, Project Manager mark.calder@argyll-bute.gov.uk Page 63
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL SECONDARY SCHOOL ATTAINMENT REPORT AREA COMMITTEE SCHOOL BADGE Oban High School Page 65 Agenda Item 7a
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11th June 2025 School information/school context – include SIMD etc. At Oban High School we seek to embrace the rich heritage and culture of the area whilst promoting a progressive, inclusive and holistic approach to education. Our vision and values permeate every aspect of school life. The school has 19 partner primary schools and has one of the largest geographical catchment areas in Scotland, catering for pupils from remote rural and island areas and large numbers of urban pupils. The pupils from nine islands stay in the school hostel throughout the school terms. Our catchment contains areas of deprivation between Decile 1 through to Decile 9 of the Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation. Approximately 41% of our pupils have additional support needs. To ensure a fully inclusive pastoral support structure, we have merged our severe and complex needs facility with both behaviour and learning support departments and inter-linked these across a full time Guidance structure. Our Clan System is central to our vision and values and was highly praised by the HMIe. The core purpose of the clan system is to promote the concept of “family” and supporting each other; though competitive spirit also remains prominent as shown in our annual Highland Games and clan competitions throughout the year. Our pastoral support is also structured around the clans, with pupils coming together in assemblies and in tutor classes in clans. The assemblies are led by pupil Clan leaders, thus allowing them valuable leadership experience. We seek to use every opportunity to provide wider opportunities for our pupils, in and out of lessons. We celebrate staff collegiality and embrace a talent management philosophy through a number of opportunities to develop staff leadership. All staff are expected to lead some aspect of whole school improvement and development. In order to provide the necessary qualifications, skills and experiences to equip our youngsters for life and work after school, we deliberately provide one of the broadest curriculums in Scotland. It is a policy which ensures a very high level of positive destinations for our pupils. In addition to this broad curriculum, we also deliver online lessons to pupils in our sister school, Tiree High school. This ensures that pupils in Tiree have access to a wider pool of subjects and improved future pathways. This has been very successful and last session all Tiree pupils with VC lessons delivered by Oban High School passed their course. We have a good and developing record in promoting and celebrating wider achievement as evidenced by the number of pupils that take part in a very wide range of activities in and beyond school, many of which are recognised by certification (e.g. Mental Health and Wellbeing Award, Leadership, Duke of Edinburgh). Page 66
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Our young people make an impressive contribution to the wider life of the school community and are encouraged to take on leadership roles throughout the school. Leadership activities include involvement in the Senior Pupil Leadership Team (SPLT) in leading Clan Assemblies; leading the Pupil Parliament; running charity events; school events and representing the school at civic events both locally and nationally. The pupils were and continue to be co-authors of our curriculum. The SPLT lead groups of prefects on a weekly basis but also co-opt other pupils from across the school on an on-going basis. Wider achievement is also a key element in the senior phase of our curriculum with an extensive range or vocational opportunities being provided through our well established “Pathways Programme”. This Programme, which Education Scotland uses as a model of good practice, is delivered in partnership with a wide variety of local businesses and partner Primary schools allowing senior pupils the opportunity to gain valuable experience on a weekly basis in a profession or industry that they wish to pursue after leaving school. We have three “Schools” within Oban High which provide a higher and more specialist level of education in particular fields as well as providing greater breadth and opportunity across both the junior and senior curriculum. We believe all three “Schools” have a positive impact on future career progression; talent development, attainment, attendance, confidence and discipline. Working in partnership with the Scottish Rugby Union, our School of Rugby curricular programme is centred on the development of the whole child. The sport lends itself to developing leadership, fitness, responsibility, discipline, respect and sportsmanship. It also provides an opportunity for our students to excel in the sport whilst providing a pathway to represent the school, community, region and their country. We have also introduced our School of Shinty which has the same aims as our School of Rugby. Our School of Traditional Music utilises the experience and skills of nationally and inter-nationally renowned musicians to mentor, support and nurture the talents of our pupils who have a passion for traditional Scottish music. It provides our youngsters with the opportunity to develop their talents, both in terms of their instrument and in concert performances, to the point where they can either choose a career as professional musicians directly after school. Working in partnership with local dance tutors, our School of Dance gives pupils an opportunity to receive specialist dance tuition within the curriculum. The provision has had a positive impact on pupils' broader school life. Pupils themselves have spoken about it improving their confidence and having great pride in being part of Oban High School. Feeling valued and building strong relationships with staff and peers has really helped our pupils develop a positive attitude to school in general. Our annual dance show was incredibly well attended this year too, and was an excellent opportunity to showcase the pupils’ skill. In addition to securing pupils a wide range of academic and vocational qualifications, we are also committed to providing effective and timely support to ensure that our pupils leave Oban High School with a positive destination. This is evidenced through our positive destination figures which have been consistently above the national and local authority averages in each of the last 5 years. We also have a successful record when it comes to ensuring pupils secure a university place with typically between 30-35% doing so. Although our figures for pupils moving onto Page 67
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further education is below the national average this can often be due to our rural nature and is offset by the extremely high employment rate we have with 35-40% of pupils going straight into work compared with the national average of around 20% for the last 5 years. A wide range of vocational work based learning is undertaken in Oban High School, which is provided by 95 different employers, giving pupils the opportunity to select placements which they find relevant. Work experience is also used to personalise the timetables of pupils who are experiencing significant problems in engaging with mainstream education. Last session we continued to deliver Foundation Apprenticeships in Business Skills, Engineering, Construction and Hospitality which have all proved to be very successful. These qualifications can be up to the equivalent of two Highers, with work experience and theoretical work taking place hand in hand in an effort to bridge the gap between education and employment. Page 68
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Section 1 S3 ACEL Attainment in Literacy and Numeracy School Level % Achieved Reading Writing L&T Literacy Numeracy Oban High School Third Level or better 88.0 87.0 88.5 86.5 90 Argyll & Bute Third Level or better 91.9 87.5 89.8 86.3 92.1 Oban High School Fourth Level 79.5 78.5 80.5 77.5 81.0 Argyll & Bute Fourth Level 67.2 65.6 69.6 64.1 64.4 S3 ACEL – Gaelic (if applicable) Page 69
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School Level % Achieved Gaelic Reading Gaelic Writing Gaelic L&T Oban High School Third Level or better 100 100 100 Oban High School Fourth Level 45.5 36.4 45.5 Evaluative Comment – Areas of Strength in BGE Attainment: Attainment at Fourth Level across all areas of Literacy and Numeracy has improved significantly across all measures and is much higher than Argyll and Bute averages. In particular, pupils in Quintile 1 have performed very well will 100% attainment at Level 4 across all measures. These pupils were an identified target group supported by staff to achieve their potential. Evaluative Comment – Areas for Development in BGE Attainment: Attainment at Third level is either equal to or just below Argyll and Bute averages. We must put more interventions in place in order to gather evidence from these learners to ensure they attain Level 3 or better by the end of S3. Strategies include Fresh Start, SEAL, better tracking and monitoring of BGE to identify these pupils earlier and put appropriate individualised curriculums in place to ensure progression and evidence gathering. Staff in The Bridge will complete Literacy and Numeracy assessments with pupils in S3. Our SIP has identified adaptive teaching as a priority for this session and CLPL sessions will support pupils to achieve their potential. There is also a focus on improving the classroom environment to support non/low attenders back into the classroom. Page 70
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Section 2 National Qualifications 2024 – Percentage of Awards – A-C and A-D Page 71
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Evaluative Comment – Areas of Strength Page 72
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We continue to follow a positive presentation policy deliberately ensuring that as many pupils as possible are presented for as many courses/levels as possible. This ensures the number of pupils passing can rise but does have the effect of reducing the percentage pass rate from those we have taken a chance on. We will not raise the percentage pass rate merely by withdrawing borderline pupils. Presentation rates for S4 N5 and S5 Higher are above A &B rates and very much reflect this positive presentation policy. For S5 N5 and S6 Higher, we have a number of alternative courses including NPAs and FAs, this of course has reduced our NQ presentation rates in these cohorts but represents a better pathway for these pupils. National 5 - Overall pass rates have improved from last session by 4%. S4 A-D pass rate continues to be strong. The performance of S5 pupils sitting National 5 has improved from last session by 22%. This is mainly due to better coursing and alternative curriculum pathways such as NPAs for this cohort. Higher – Pass rates at A to C is slightly down on last year but still higher than the 2018-19 comparison. The number of A passes has increased and this was a particular focus of last session’s attainment meetings with departments. Advanced Higher – Overall passes at A to C are down from last session by 11%. This was a focus for attainment meetings/strategies this session. Evaluative Comment – Areas for Development Focus on ensuring pupils are coursed appropriately into Advanced Higher courses and continue to develop our curriculum based on local context and pupil need. We are currently developing Creative Industries across the school as the next step in widening our curriculum offer. Section 3 Insight Data Page 73
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What is Insight Scotland? Insight is a professional tool, aimed at teachers and other staff. It is used to help secondary schools and local authorities identify areas of success and where improvements can be made for pupils in the senior phase. The dashboard has four measures: • Improving Attainment in Literacy and Numeracy (presented below as separate Literacy and Numeracy graphs) • Increasing Post-School Participation • Improving Attainment for All • Attainment Versus Deprivation The school’s data below is compared to what is termed The Virtual Comparator. The virtual comparator consists of a sample group of school leavers from schools in other local authorities who have similar characteristics to the school leavers from the school in question. This allows the most accurate and meaningful comparison of attainment data. 3a Improving Attainment in Literacy and Numeracy Page 74
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Evaluative Comment – Areas of Strength Attainment in Literacy at Level 4 and Level 5 continues to be strong and is equal to or just under the virtual comparator. Our English Department has also introduced a Level 6 Communication and Literature course in order to provide a better pathway for learners to achieve Level 6 Literacy. Evaluative Comment – Areas for Development Attainment in Level 5 Numeracy has fallen below the virtual comparator. We need to ensure learners are on the correct Level 5 pathway. More pupils should be sitting Applications of Maths with Numeracy 5. Page 77
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3b Increased post-school participation Page 78
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Evaluative Comment – Areas of Strength 95.3% of pupils who left Oban High School last session achieved a positive destination. This figure is equal to national and authority figures Page 79
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Evaluative Comment – Areas for Development Continue to support our pupils into positive destinations and take account of our local context where 39% of our leavers went straight into employment. This is much higher than the National figure which is 23% and 17% more than our virtual comparator. This is why we continue to develop vocational, skills based courses that give our pupils the skills they need for the local employment market such as FAs in Construction and Hospitality. 3c Improving attainment for all Page 80
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Evaluative Comment – Areas of Strength Our most able pupils and the middle 60% achieved more qualifications than all the comparators. Our highest 20% gained 189 more tariff points than our virtual comparator and 207 points more than the national figure. Our middle 60% gained 84 more tariff points than our virtual comparator and 121 points more than the national figure. Evaluative Comment – Areas for Development Our lowest 20% gained 36 tariff points less than our virtual comparator. This is an area for improvement, we need to ensure that our least able pupils are supported to achieve more qualifications. Attendance for this group of pupils must improve in order for them to achieve their potential. We have recently appointed a PT Raising Attainment in order to work with this cohort and improve attendance and attainment. Page 83
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3d Attainment versus Deprivation Page 84
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Evaluative Comment – Areas of Strength Performance at SIMD 1, 5, 6, 7 and 8 is very strong and above the Virtual Comparator. We have successfully implemented strategies to support pupils to achieve to their potential. Evaluative Comment – Areas for Development Attainment at SIMD 4 is just below the Virtual Comparator and this is a target for improvement. Often in rural areas poverty can be hidden as the Deprivation Deciles do not accurately reflect the deprivation in some areas. For example Taynuilt, Kilmelford and Dunbeg all have families living in poverty and therefore pupils require more support in order to achieve their potential. Page 85
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Section 4 Wider Achievement Qualifications National Certificates; Higher National Certificates; Scottish Vocational Qualifications; National Progression Awards; Skills for Work qualifications; Foundation Apprenticeships; Scottish Baccalaureate Overall evaluative comment/narrative on Wider Achievement Qualifications in your school: This is an area of strength with the delivery of Foundation Apprenticeships in Engineering, Business and I.T, Construction and Hospitality - 57 pupils gained these awards last session. Level 6 NPAs are delivered in Exercise and Fitness, Communication and Sports Development - 45 pupils gained these awards last session. Scottish Studies is also delivered with 61 National 5 Awards and 1 Higher pass achieved last session. Mental Health and Wellbeing Level 5 is delivered in S5. There were 50 passes last session. Leadership Level 6 is delivered in S6. There were 62 passes last session. We also piloted the Powering Futures award in S6 and 4 pupils passed this. This has now become part of our core wider achievement offer for S6 pupils with 28 pupils set to achieve this in the current session. Our wider achievement qualifications continue to add to the experiences and qualifications our pupils gain in Oban High School Page 86
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Section 5 Equity and Attainment – Evaluation of Key Factors Factor in attainment Attendance School Ave. Att. 23-24: 84.9% (87.3% in Argyll and Bute) Persistent Absence: 55% (45% in Argyll and Bute) This figure is disappointing and represents a 1.8% decrease from last session. There continues to be issues with pupils not engaging in education due to anxiety, mental health and lack of parental support. We have a number of strategies in place to try to improve these figures including: • Appointment of PT Raising Attainment • Addressing Non Attendance interventions • Facilitate closer working with external agencies • Child Plans • Pastoral Team focus on attendance tracking and monitoring and using Maximising Attendance policy for early interventions. • Use Harbour/Bridge facility to improve attendance amongst disengaged learners. • Safeguarding check at front of the school to prevent truancy and pupils leaving the building during the school day. Page 87
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• FLOs to visit families/pupils Exclusion No. of Exclusion Incidents 23-24: 27 No. of Exclusion Openings 23-24: 65 Rate per 1000 pupils: 26.8 (18.5 in Argyll and Bute) This is slightly less than last session but reflects the very challenging behaviour from a small minority of pupils, particularly girls. We will continue to foster good relationships and put early interventions and appropriate support in place Additional Support Needs Census 2023: 41% (40% in Argyll and Bute) This is a very high proportion of our pupils with ASN needs. Our PT Support and colleagues have a very clear pathway to follow to identify and evidence the supports required by individual pupils with ASN throughout the whole year for assessment purposes. Training for ASN assistants is a priority. SIMD Census 2023: Quintile 1 = 2.4% (18% in Argyll and Bute) Analysis of data shows that attainment and attendance in Quintile 2 is of greatest concern. There is also some hidden poverty in Quintile 3 due to the rural setting. Whilst attainment versus deprivation data is improving we are targeting pupils in Quintile 2 and 3 for mentoring/support. Page 88
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Free School Meal Entitlement Census 2023: 13% (14% in Argyll and Bute) This is a 2% increase from last session. We will continue Breakfast Club for targeted pupils. Care Experienced (and previously Care Experienced) Census 2023: 3.3% (33 pupils) We will continue to work closely with the Virtual Head Teacher for Care Experienced pupils in order to ensure best possible outcomes for these pupils. The whole school is working towards the Keeping the Promise award and this should be achieved by the end of this session. Also, Individual targeting of pupils to assess progress and attainment and any risk of disengagement. Proactive strategies, working with partners when necessary. Use of outdoor learning, small groups, MCR Pathways, alternative curriculum to support these pupils. English as Additional Language Census 2023: 6.5% We continue to have a significant number of EAL pupils enrolling, particularly Ukranian refugees. Online sessions with EAL teacher are working well and having a significant impact on language skills. Also working on improving links with parents through after school sessions Other (give details) Page 89
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Pupil Equity Funding Impact of PEF on closing the attainment gap • Our Pupil Equity Fund (PEF) is directed towards young people in SIMD 1-3, those who receive free school meals, are care-experienced, refugees, or face significant barriers to learning due to mental health issues, Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), and attendance challenges. This year, Family Liaison Officers have collaborated with PT Support to implement 19 interventions aimed at enhancing emotional regulation, self-esteem, resilience, friendships, numeracy, and literacy in our young people. • Family Liaison Officers have also worked closely with families and students, employing ANA strategies to support attendance. This support extends to primary students struggling with attendance, utilising the Harbour in their transition to secondary school. Additionally, a targeted Breakfast Club for S1 to S6 pupils, managed by our youth worker, provides a platform for early identification of learning barriers. • To boost attainment and adequately prepare students for exams, Live N-Learn delivered sessions to S4 and targeted some S6 pupils, and conducted a parental information session on growth mind-set and effective study skills. • The impact of these efforts is evident among our 166 PEF pupils, who have an average attendance rate of 83%, with only 5% having attendance below 50%. Furthermore, 45% of PEF-targeted pupils participate in extracurricular activities such as clubs, school sports teams, or hold leadership positions. There have been four exclusions of PEF pupils throughout the academic year. Our students have reported that the Harbour is a quiet, safe space where they feel comfortable discussing any issues with staff. Page 90
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Section 6 Other information Link to Standards and Quality for June 2024 https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ZIL9OO_2ridohpbeAW0_64cgPGnkq3MT/view Page 91
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL SECONDARY SCHOOL ATTAINMENT REPORT AREA COMMITTEE SCHOOL BADGE Tiree High School Page 93 Agenda Item 7b
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11th June 2025 Tiree High School and Tiree Primary School serves the island of Tiree providing Gaelic and English Medium Education (GME and EME). There are 110 children and young people on the school roll. Tiree Schools’ educational provision is for children 3-18 years of age. The Nursery provides child care from 2 years old and is part of the 1140 hours pilot programme. There are three CCEW staff that allow provision of English and Gaelic sessions that recognises the value placed on the language by the community of Tiree. The Primary school has two English-medium classes and two Gaelic-medium classes. Pupils are currently split into P1-3 and P4-7 classes for both Gaelic and English streams. For languages L1+2, the classes have (respectively) English and Gaelic as L2 and French for L3. The High School provides courses of study in English, Mathematics, Gaelic, Physics, Chemistry, Computing Studies, Modern Studies, Art, History, Geography, Music, Music Technology, Business Management, Physical Education and Biology. Some of these subjects are delivered to S4, 5 and 6 pupils by VC from Oban High School; biology, modern studies, RME, administration and business studies which has increased the options for subjects that can be studied. In Primary and Secondary BGE, pupils study subjects across all eight curricular areas up to the end of S3. From this point, pupils choose seven subjects to progress to SQA certification at the end of S4. In S5/6, pupils will be expected to undertake 5 subjects. The current roll of the Secondary school is 46 pupils. The pupils all come under SIMD decile 5. Our PEF funding has been used to support initiatives which include studying techniques and emotional well-being, as well as the appointment of a part time FLO. Tiree Schools' staffing comprises 14 teachers with 5 in Primary and 9 in Secondary, some of whom work part-time. In addition, learning in the Nursery is provided by 3 Pre-5 staff. Additional support comes from an IT technician and 4 classroom/ASN assistants. Our young people make an impressive contribution to the wider life of the school community and are encouraged to take on leadership roles throughout the school. Leadership activities include involvement in the Senior Pupil Leadership Team (SPLT) in leading House Assemblies; leading the Pupil Parliament; running charity events; school events and representing the school at civic events. The pupils were and continue to be co-authors of our curriculum. The SPLT lead groups of prefects on a weekly basis but also co-opt other pupils from across the school on an on-going basis. Page 94
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Section 1 S3 ACEL Attainment in Literacy and Numeracy School Level % Achieved Reading Writing L&T Literacy Numeracy Tiree High School Third Level or better 100 100 100 100 100 Argyll & Bute Third Level or better 91.9 87.5 89.8 86.3 92.1 Tiree High School Fourth Level 85.7 71.4 85.7 57.1 100 Argyll & Bute Fourth Level 67.2 65.6 69.6 64.1 64.4 S3 ACEL – Gaelic (if applicable) School Level % Achieved Gaelic Reading Gaelic Writing Gaelic L&T Tiree High School Third Level or better 50 50 50 Page 95
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Tiree High School Fourth Level 0 0 0 Evaluative Comment – Areas of Strength in BGE Attainment: Tiree High School across Reading, Writing, Talking and Listening and Numeracy is above all local averages. This particular cohort consists of 14 pupils. Support is in place for 4 of the pupils around accessing learning and assessments due to diagnosis of dyslexia and/or dyscalculia. Support for these pupils was identified by Tiree Primary School and consistent support has been in place for them going forward into their S4 year. Evaluative Comment – Areas for Development in BGE Attainment: In English/Literacy we are ensuring effective use of ICT is being made, use of reader/scribe where appropriate, paper colour suitable for each specific pupil in order to support their dyslexia. Additionally, personal reading has been introduced at the start of each lesson to help improve reading skills. Texts have been carefully selected to reflect the interest of the pupils. Marking of work part way through to enable improvement on the rest of the task (eg, teacher feedback after one or two essay paragraphs so students can use feedback for the last two paragraphs), More consistent writing of levels in jotters so pupils know where they are after each extended task (marking first draft of essay and putting a level 3 and where they are in that level) so that pupils know exactly where they are. In Mathematics/Numeracy a revised Scheme of Work has been implemented in order to support progress, attainment and engagement. There is classroom support where required and the class teacher also gives 1:1 support. Lunch time revision classes have been introduced along with Easter revision sessions too. Pupils are tracked and monitored closely with appropriate support and interventions put in place in a timely manner. The use of the support systems in school via the PT Guidance and the Family Liaison Officer are utilised and good relationships with parents have been established. Page 96
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Section 2 National Qualifications 2024 – Percentage of Awards – A-C and A-D Page 97
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*No Tiree pupils were presented for Advanced Higher awards, as such, the Tiree High School columns are blank rather than 0%. Page 98
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Evaluative Comment – Areas of Strength We follow a positive presentation policy deliberately ensuring that as many pupils as possible are presented for as many courses/levels as possible. Whilst affording our pupils this opportunity it can lead to the percentage pass rates to be, in some cases, adversely affected, impacted further by our small cohort of pupils in each of the year groups. We feel that pupils who are for example borderline in National 5 should be given the opportunity to sit the assessments in order to achieve to their fullest potential. We achieved excellent results at both National 5 and Higher level last year, above both the Argyll and Bute and the National averages at both levels. This is a 35% increase from last year at National 5 level and a 50% increase from last year at Higher level. Evaluative Comment – Areas for Development We will continue to encourage all pupils to reach their full potential in Tiree high School. Section 3 Insight Data What is Insight Scotland? Insight is a professional tool, aimed at teachers and other staff. It is used to help secondary schools and local authorities identify areas of success and where improvements can be made for pupils in the senior phase. The dashboard has four measures: • Improving Attainment in Literacy and Numeracy (presented below as separate Literacy and Numeracy graphs) • Increasing Post-School Participation • Improving Attainment for All • Attainment Versus Deprivation The school’s data below is compared to what is termed The Virtual Comparator. The virtual comparator consists of a sample group of school leavers from schools in other local authorities who have similar characteristics to the school leavers from the school in question. This allows the most accurate and meaningful comparison of attainment data. Page 99
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3a Improving Attainment in Literacy and Numeracy The measures below are for leavers only. There were no school leavers in the 23/24 cohort, meaning no data is available for 2024 leavers. The visuals below provide an overview of literacy and numeracy data that does exist for Tiree. Page 100
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S4 Literacy and Numeracy 2024 Page 101
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Evaluative Comment – Areas of Strength Attainment in Literacy and Numeracy at level 4 is 100%. Page 103
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Evaluative Comment – Areas for Development Continue to aim for 100% in all areas of Numeracy and Literacy 3b Increased post-school participation There were no school leavers in the 23/24 cohort, meaning no data is available for 2024 leavers. The visuals below provide an overview of initial destinations data that does exist for Tiree. Page 104
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Evaluative Comment – Areas of Strength All pupils historically achieve a positive destination. This continues to be a focus in Tiree high School. Evaluative Comment – Areas for Development Page 105
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Continue to aim for 100% positive destinations. 3c Improving attainment for all No leavers data is available for this measure. The data below explores the performance of S4 pupils in terms of total tariff points at the end of S4: Page 106
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*Note that the cohort is only 5 pupils, so the lowest and highest 20% of pupils are individual pupils whilst the middle 60% is 3 pupils. Evaluative Comment – Areas of Strength Page 107
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Pupils in the Lowest 20% and the middle 60% achieved well above all comparators. The Highest 20% were above the Virtual Comparator and slightly below the Argyll and Bute and National Comparators. Evaluative Comment – Areas for Development Continue to encourage pupils to achieve the best grades they can. 3d Attainment versus Deprivation No data is available for this measure as there were no leavers in 2024 and not a big enough sample for Insight to complete analysis on any other stage. Evaluative Comment – Areas of Strength No data available Evaluative Comment – Areas for Development No data available Section 4 Wider Achievement Qualifications Page 108
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National Certificates; Higher National Certificates; Scottish Vocational Qualifications; National Progression Awards; Skills for Work qualifications; Foundation Apprenticeships; Scottish Baccalaureate Overall evaluative comment/narrative on Wider Achievement Qualifications in your school: Our Senior pupils continue to be given the opportunity to attain an award in: Scottish Studies, Employability, Customer Services, Mental Health & Wellbeing and Leadesrship, ranging from Level 4 to Level 6. Our pupils worked with ‘The Youth and Philanthropy Initiative (YPI)’. This is a powerful active citizenship programme, empowering young people to make a difference in their communities while developing a range of skills. The pupils competed for a £3000 donation to be given to their chosen charity. The winning team secured this money for the Solar, a service that provides food and household essential to the community of Tiree. Page 109
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Section 5 Equity and Attainment – Evaluation of Key Factors Factor in attainment Attendance School Ave. Att. 23-24: 89.2% (87.3% in Argyll and Bute) Persistent Absence: 41% (45% in Argyll and Bute) This is an increase of 2.5% on the previous year. In Tiree High School 1 pupil accounts for 2.7% of our High School population so the % change can be affected by a single event or pupil. Actions • Continue with ANA strategies • Outside agencies employed where appropriate • Family Liaison Officer support • Child Plans in place where appropriate • PT Guidance support • Continued weekly 1:1 attendance conversation in House time with pupils House teachers Exclusion No. of Exclusion Incidents 23-24: 0 No. of Exclusion Openings 23-24: 0 Actions • Continue to embed our Relationship Policy which has been a key driver in nurturing and strengthening relationships pupil:pupil, staff: pupil and teacher:parent. • When appropriate: early intervention and appropriate support put in place via House Teachers, PT Guidance and FLO Page 110
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Additional Support Needs Census 2023: 51% (40% in Argyll and Bute) This is a very high proportion of our pupils with ASN needs. This reflects Stage 3, 2 and 1. However, there are pupils with support needs outwith this - sometimes on a temporary basis including wellbeing concerns that affect learning. Actions • We have a robust system in place which identifies and continually monitors pupils' support needs. Teachers feedback to PT Support in order to adjust support strategies and any changes in support required. This will be continued. • Continued CPD opportunities to support teachers to support pupils with dyslexia, dyscalculia, ADS etc. • Continue to ensure ASN assistants are offered appropriate CPD • Keep all Learner profiles up to date and in form all involved with the pupil of any changes. • Liaise with outside agencies when appropriate including SALT, Educational Psychologist, OH etc. • Continue to work in partnership with parents/carers. SIMD Census 2023: 0% in Deciles 1-3 (18% in Argyll and Bute) D5 – 100% The entire Isle of Tiree is in the SIMD D5 category. This masks the identified poverty on the island and consequently within the school population. The cost of living on the Isle of Tiree is considerably higher than on the mainland and the cost of living crisis has hit hard. There is also help with food and essentials via a ‘Food Bank’. Actions Page 111
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• Continue to send out all information regarding grants and payments available to families via messenger 5 ensuring the information reaches all parents. This included information about accessing free school meals and the clothing grant. • Continue to use our PEF money to fund our Family Liaison Officer who supports families to access funding/grants when required Free School Meal Entitlement Census 2023: 5% (14% in Argyll and Bute) We feel this figure does not reflect the percentage of pupils who could be entitled to free school meals. There is a huge amount of pride on the island and there is privacy over financial matters. This has meant some of our families have either not applied or are reluctant to do so. Actions • FLO to continue to make families aware of FSM and support families to complete applications. • The cashless catering systems means that no pupils pay at the tills so pupils on FSM cannot in any way be identified. This may encourage families to apply for FSM. Care Experienced (and previously Care Experienced) Census 2023: 2.7% (1 pupil) • Supported provided to the pupil and their family via PT Guidance and our FLO • Robust Childs Plan in place with several of our partners involved English as Additional Language Census 2023: 0% Other (give details) 100% Remote Rural Areas (SG 6-fold Urban-Rural Classification) Page 112
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Pupil Equity Funding Impact of PEF on closing the attainment gap PEF used to continue to finance a FLO within Tiree. This enables us to provide timely interventions in various situations, attendance, health, nutrition, mental health etc. This continued individualised support on Tiree not only provides a service to the pupils but to the families of the island to make sure they are accessing everything they can to provide the best opportunities for their child. Section 6 Other information Add good news etc. Page 113
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Tiree high School has had 2 vacancies since December 2024. Both posts will be filled by August 2025. One by a FT permanent Business Studies/Administration teacher and the other by a Home Economics probationer. This enables Tiree High to increase the number of subjects on offer to pupils allowing them to follow their passions. Page 114
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL SECONDARY SCHOOL ATTAINMENT REPORT AREA COMMITTEE SCHOOL BADGE Tobermory High School Page 115 Agenda Item 7c
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11th June 2025 School information/school context – include SIMD etc. • 2 – 18 school • ELC – 18 pupils • Primary – 80 pupils (serves Tobermory solely) • Secondary – 156 pupils (Tobermory, Salen, Dervaig, Ulva Ferry and Lochdon) • Fluent Gàidhlig speakers from Salen Primary move to THS for Secondary provision • 156 families across whole school • FME Primary (2.5 % based on P6 and P7 only) and Secondary (5.1 %) Unique Island Context: • SIMD – all addresses on the island are in vigintiles 12/14 (not indicative of reality) • Transport implications (including pupils travelling from mainland) • Rural Isolation Page 116
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Section 1 S3 ACEL Attainment in Literacy and Numeracy School Level % Achieved Reading Writing L&T Literacy Numeracy Tobermory High School Third Level or better 100 100 100 100 96.6 Argyll & Bute Third Level or better 91.9 87.5 89.8 86.3 92.1 Tobermory High School Fourth Level 75.9 72.4 79.3 69.0 51.7 Argyll & Bute Fourth Level 67.2 65.6 69.6 64.1 64.4 S3 ACEL – Gaelic (if applicable) School Level % Achieved Gaelic Reading Gaelic Writing Gaelic L&T Tobermory High School Third Level or better 100 100 100 Page 117
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Tobermory High School Fourth Level 16.7 16.7 16.7 Evaluative Comment – Areas of Strength in BGE Attainment: Tobermory High School demonstrates strong and improved performance in all areas of Third Level or better ACEL Attainment in S3, with 100% achievement in Reading, Writing, Learning & Teaching (L&T), and Literacy, reflecting a more consistent approach to these key academic domains. This performance suggests that the School's teaching approaches are well aligned with student needs. The 96.6% in Numeracy further underscores the School’s improvements. Overall, Tobermory High School has made gains across the board at this level. Tobermory High School is outperforming the Argyll and Bute average for Third Level or better in all Literacy and Numeracy areas. Improvements have also been made at Fourth Level Attainment, where we have outperformed Argyll and Bute in all Literacy organisers. Improvements are also evident in the Gaelic data, with all pupils achieving Third Level or better in Literacy. Evaluative Comment – Areas for Development in BGE Attainment: The primary focus is Numeracy, particularly at Level 4. We will seek to assess the specific challenges in Numeracy education in the BGE: individual pupil needs, teaching pedagogies and resource allocation. We will also continue to develop and enhance the moderation journey, looking outwards as a small school to ensure robust procedures in place to establish nationally consistent standards. In addition, maintaining the high performance in Literacy is important, with the school continuing to challenge pupils and adapt curricular delivery to sustain and further enhance attainment in these areas. Page 118
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Section 2 National Qualifications 2023 – Percentage of Awards – A-C and A-D Page 119
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Evaluative Comment Tobermory High School is, for session 23/24, above the national average for A – D% average attainment at N5, Higher and Advanced Higher levels. (N5: 91.08% to 89.1%; Higher: 91.43% to 89.5%; Advanced Higher: 100% to 89.9%), showing an overall positive picture for these measures. This is also the case at Advanced Higher for A – C attainment, where we had all pupils achieving an A – C pass compared to the national picture of 75.3%. Advanced Higher remains a Page 120
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positive attainment measure for Tobermory High School (now a three-year positive trend when compared to national figures); although we recognise that we are presenting very small numbers. Indeed, it is vital to note that presentation numbers at all levels impact our statistics, as each pupil carries a higher than national % weighting due to the relatively small numbers involved. It is also pertinent to take into account the School’s considerably higher than national average % of pupils with additional support needs. Our current data shows over 49% of secondary pupils have a recorded need. In addition, our island setting offers no alternative provision for pupils and the rurality of the School can limit partnership inclusion support. The picture at A – C % attainment for both N5 and Higher remains a focal area for improvement, with both measures sitting below the national average (N5 69.48% to 77.2%; Higher 64.29% to 74.9% respectively). That being said, the context and presentations trend show an improving picture. Previously, pupils at Tobermory were routinely presented for only 5 N5 qualifications (the lowest nationally), whereas now the offer of up to 7 qualifications is the norm, with almost a third of the S4 cohort gaining 7 or 8 N5 qualifications and over a third attaining 6 or more in session 2023/24. Our S4 presentations rate has increased year on year from 4.25 in 2021 to 5.75 in 2024. Similarly, N5 presentations in S5 have increased from 0.39 in 2021 to 1.17 in 2024. This places us for 2024 above the Argyll and Bute averages for N5 presentations (S4 – 4.33 and S5 0.94 respectively). We are also above the Argyll and Bute average for S6 Higher presentations, with the School rate at 2 (an increase from 0.85 in 2022). Our S5 Higher presentation rate remains more variable and an area to address for ongoing improvement, sitting 0.25 below the Argyll and Bute average in 2024. Whilst we recognise that our A-C attainment requires improvement to come into line with the national picture, we can see some evidence of impact within the 2024 attainment data from our targeted improvements. We saw an increase in A grades awarded at both N5 and Higher against last session: N5 A grade attainment increased to 27.88% from 25.26% whilst Higher A grade attainment moved to 14.49% from 9.38%. We have also seen a decrease in No Awards at both N5 and Higher this session: N5 No Awards down to 9.13% from 12.89% and Higher No Awards down to 7.25% from 10.94%. Our presentation approach is increasingly aspirational and we are trying to develop our course offerings to pupils. Section 3 Insight Data What is Insight Scotland? Page 121
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Insight is a professional tool, aimed at teachers and other staff. It is used to help secondary schools and local authorities identify areas of success and where improvements can be made for pupils in the senior phase. The dashboard has four measures: • Improving Attainment in Literacy and Numeracy (presented below as separate Literacy and Numeracy graphs) • Increasing Post-School Participation • Improving Attainment for All • Attainment Versus Deprivation The school’s data below is compared to what is termed The Virtual Comparator. The virtual comparator consists of a sample group of school leavers from schools in other local authorities who have similar characteristics to the school leavers from the school in question. This allows the most accurate and meaningful comparison of attainment data. Evaluative Comment – Areas of Strength Literacy and Numeracy • Tobermory High School has maintained and increased the SCQF 5 attainment in Literacy, outperforming its virtual comparator for the last three years. • At Level 5, Tobermory has also maintained a three-year positive attainment picture in Numeracy. Evaluative Comment – Areas for Development • To focus on Level 4 (in both Literacy and Numeracy) to bring attainment in this area back in line with our virtual comparators. 3a Improving Attainment in Literacy and Numeracy Page 122
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3b Increased post-school participation Evaluative Comment – Areas of Strength • We have an excellent record of accomplishment in supporting school leavers into a positive destination, outperforming all comparators. • Every pupil in 2024 was supported into a positive destination post-school, maintaining the positive trend for Tobermory High School. Evaluative Comment – Areas for Development Page 125
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• Continue to build partnership working to ensure positive and appropriate destinations are maintained for all pupils. 3c Improving attainment for all Page 126
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Evaluative Comment – Areas of Strength Tobermory High School outperforms all comparators for the Lowest 20% of pupils. This maintains a four-year positive trend in this area. We have a higher than average % of pupils with ASN and appropriate coursing/introducing new accreditation routes has been a focus for us. In addition, we have been moving towards a more aspirational coursing policy, in a shift from a previously more selective approach. As a result, we have more pupils (across all ability levels) being presented for qualifications. Analysis of pace, complexity of coursework and curricular rigour are ongoing in this area to ensure continued and increased performance. For S5 pupils, our Middle 60% attainment is in line with our virtual comparator and above all other comparators, indicating the cohort dependent nature of our figures due to the small numbers we are presenting. It is vital to note that presentation numbers at all levels impact our statistics, as each pupil carries a higher than national % weighting due to the relatively small numbers involved. With our Highest 20% attainment, we have maintained from the previous session the pattern of comparison against our virtual comparator, with almost all comparators experiencing a similar dip in attainment in 2024. Evaluative Comment – Areas for Development Our S4 attainment affected our total tariff data. Within this cohort, we had a small number of pupils who did not attend school/had complex support needs. This impacted the overall attainment for this cohort. That being said, a focus on high quality learning and teaching, alongside a continued focus on appropriate coursing and targeted interventions is required to improve our average total tariff point data. In particular, our Middle 60% and Highest 20% groups will be the key focus for ongoing improvement. Strategies will include: • Early intervention and ongoing monitoring. • A focus on high quality learning, teaching and assessment (including study skills and exam preparation). • Continued focus on curriculum design and offering (with a flexible approach). • Increasing staff confidence in utilising data and analytics for improvement. Page 128
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3d Attainment versus Deprivation The restricted nature of our SIMD vigintile placement removes statistical significance in terms of analysis of this measure. At SIMD 6 we perform better than our virtual comparator. Page 129
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At SIMD 7 we remain slightly behind our virtual comparator, but the gap continues to lessen, showing that we are tackling disadvantage and improving attainment. Section 4: Wider Achievement Qualifications National Certificates; Higher National Certificates; Scottish Vocational Qualifications; National Progression Awards; Skills for Work qualifications; Foundation Apprenticeships; Scottish Baccalaureate Overall evaluative comment/narrative on Wider Achievement Qualifications in your school: • Pupils in S4 gain a Personal Development unit accreditation through their Work Experience placement, as well as accreditation through Core RMPS. • Pupils in S5 and S6 have timetabled Wider Achievement time to promote this aspect of the curriculum. • Pupils in S5 and S6 gain a Community based accreditation unit through their participation in the Youth and Philanthropy Initiative project. • Pupils in S6 were supported to gain a Level 6 SQA qualification through partnership work with Powering Futures, equipping learners with critical meta-skills that employers are looking for whilst gaining an understanding of sustainability knowledge. All pupils in S6 were successful in gaining this additional award. We continue to seek opportunities for wider achievement. Level 5 Maritime was offered virtually to a small cohort of pupils, with all gaining at least one unit and 5 gaining the full award. We also widened the suite of course offerings for pupils within the school setting, with increased National Progression Awards (NPA) in the Business and Computing field. We also worked in partnership with Argyll College to present pupils virtually for Criminology and Psychology courses. This is an ongoing area for development with increased offerings again this session – Personal Development Award, Employability, Leadership and NPA in Applied Science. We have also supported pupils to gain NPA qualifications in Scottish Bagpipes through partnership working with the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association. Page 130
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Section 5 Equity and Attainment – Evaluation of Key Factors Factor in attainment Attendance School Ave. Att. 23-24: 88.8% (87.3% in Argyll and Bute) Persistent Absence: 36% (45% in Argyll and Bute) Exclusion No. of Exclusion Incidents 23-24: 0 No. of Exclusion Openings 23-24: 0 Rate per 1000 pupils: 0 (18.2 in Argyll and Bute) Additional Support Needs Census 2023: 43% (40% in Argyll and Bute) SIMD Census 2023: 0% in Deciles 1-3 (18% in Argyll and Bute) Free School Meal Entitlement Census 2023: 5% (14% in Argyll and Bute) Care Experienced (and previously Care Experienced) Census 2023: 1.3% (2 pupils) English as Additional Language Census 2023: 4% Page 131
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Pupil Equity Funding Impact of PEF on closing the attainment gap • Safe space and lunchtime study support is an effective support mechanism that is well utilised by pupils. • Practical cooking skills offered to pupils to promote engagement and help to prepare pupils for independence and positive destinations post school. • Lego Skills Club offered as wellbeing support. • Additional in-class support offered to help vulnerable pupils • Set up of a nurture space/sensory support for pupils with additional support needs. Page 132
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Section 6 Other information Some satisfactory progress was made in the development of new leadership roles for S5/6 pupils, with pupil leadership roles allocated and pupil leadership meetings established to enhance personal leadership for this cohort. Some very good examples of successful pupil led events were evident during the session: The Christmas Ball, End of Term Ceilidhs and positive engagement with the Youth Philanthropy Initiative. Pupils in these leadership roles contributed positively to the whole school ethos and wellbeing development. End of year parental surveys evidenced an increase of 20% of secondary parents/carers who were confident in the School’s provision of support for emotional wellbeing. In session 2023-2024 we applied and were successful for a “Discovering the World of Arabic” project and grant. The P6/7 pupils involved attended a virtual lesson with their Arabic tutor once a week. All pupils engaged well within these sessions, and were praised by the tutor in how well they have picked up on the pronunciation of words. Pupils have shown their engagement and enthusiasm by asking questions and showing a keen interest to learn more. These questions created good discussions and follow up activities around culture, such as a cooking lesson. This gave the pupils a positive experience of Arab cultures and allowed them to explore foods they may not have done otherwise. As a final celebratory activity the class took part in a live, online visit to a Mosque in Bahrain. This was delivered by a local person who was able to show them round the mosque and provide an insight into living in Bahrain. At the end of the ten sessions pupils were asked to describe their learning experience. Feedback shows that pupils enjoyed the experience to enhance their learning of languages and have deepened their understanding of other cultures. Good progress has been made towards the implementation of Scottish Studies within the School. The majority of S3 pupils have now generated evidence for a pass in both the Scottish Studies Dance unit and the Scotland in Focus unit. Pupil feedback showed that the majority of pupils said that they enjoyed working on both these units. They enjoyed doing the ceilidh dancing for the dance unit, and being given the opportunity to research a topic they were interested in for the Scotland in Focus unit. Most pupils thought it was a good idea to give pupils the opportunity to gain this SQA award, and the majority said they would recommend Scottish Studies to other pupils. Scottish Studies has now been introduced as a subject choice in its own right for pupils progressing into S3 in session 2024/2025. New Gaelic Ambassadors were appointed this session. They organised a successful Gaelic Week, facilitating a range of different Gaelic activities throughout the week: Gaelic Wake Up, Shake Up (for both primary and secondary pupils), Gaelic bingo, a ceilidh and a Gaelic scavenger hunt. All activities were well attended and good feedback was received from pupils. Pupils said that the bingo was fun and they enjoyed revising Gaelic vocabulary through the scavenger hunt. To help further enhance Page 133
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the Gaelic profile across the school during Gaelic Week, Gaelic posters and stickers were put up, and useful Gaelic phrases were distributed to staff to encourage them to use Gaelic in their classes. Also during Gaelic Week, fluent Gaelic pupils were given different opportunities to mix with other fluent Gaelic pupils from other schools. Our S2 Gàidhlig pupils participated in a Gaelic activity day with S2 Gàidhlig pupils from Oban High School, and some S1-S3 Gaelic pupils (both learners and fluent speakers) took part in a Gaelic football festival in Inverness. Pupils all enjoyed getting the opportunity to engage with other Gaelic speakers their own age and demonstrated an increase in confidence speaking the language. Page 134
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1 Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee Date of Meeting: 11 June 2025 Title of Report: Health & Social Care Partnership - Performance Report – FQ3 2024/25 (October – December) Presented by: Charlotte Craig – Interim Head of Strategic Planning, Performance & Technology The Board is asked to: • Acknowledge performance for FQ3 2024/25 (October - December) • Acknowledge performance update on the National Health & Wellbeing Outcomes and Ministerial Steering Group Integration Indicators (Appendix 1) • Note Delayed Discharge Sitrep as of 06 January 2025 (Appendix 2) EXECUTIVE SUMMARY This report details performance for the Financial Quarter (FQ) 3 2024/25 (October - December), the performance outputs are taken from the Integrated Performance Management Framework (IPMF) Reporting Dashboard with the focus on twelve key service areas. Overall performance for FQ3 notes 42 of 84 measures reporting as on target (50%). The report details performance against each of the service areas and the 84 supporting Key Performance Indicators. National Health & Wellbeing Indicators performance is included alongside latest performance from the National Delayed Discharge Sitrep. The use of the new performance Dashboard within SharePoint is designed to offer a more focused approach to the access and analysis of data, offering scope for self-service. In consideration of the report the committee is reminded of the role of the Clinical and Care Governance Committee in providing more in depth scrutiny of performance. To ensure timely consideration for the IJB a high level report has been presented to the IJB ahead of this with update to follow in the next minute. 2. RECOMENDATIONS The committee are asked to acknowledge current FQ3 24/25 performance. 3. DETAIL OF REPORT The report details the HSCP (Health and Social Care Partnership) performance for FQ 3 2024/25 (October - December) highlighting key performance trends across the 84 KPIs (Key Performance Indicators). The latest performance against the National Health and Wellbeing Outcomes Indicators is reported (Appendix 1). Also included is the latest national update on Delayed Discharges (Appendix 2). Page 135 Agenda Item 8
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2 4. RELEVANT DATA & INDICATORS 4.1 FQ3 2024/25 (October - December) Performance Summary Overall performance for FQ3 notes that 84 KPI’s are scoring against target, with 42 (50%) reporting as on-track. This is a decrease of 8% from FQ2 position, where 49 KPI were on track (58%). The KPI’s report performance against the target and include the target, actual and variance and is a mix of both quantitative and qualitative indicators. The use of the green, amber and red graphics within the Dashboard is used to give an overview of the HSCP’s total performance for each of the twelve services and 84 KPI’s. The use of only green and red for the KPI’s is used to focus delivery with regards to sustaining performance on or above target. 4.2 Analysis of Key Performance This analysis identifies performance across the 12 service reporting categories within the Integrated Performance Management Framework (IPMF). 4.2.1 Children & Families Performance across 7 KPIs, Children & Families and Justice notes 4 (57%) on track, with 4 (43%) off track, against the targets set for Q3 24/25. This is consistent with 57% noted as on track in FQ2. Performance on or above target: • The percentage of Child Protection Register (CPR) cases that have an allocated Social Worker remains on target at 100% for FQ3, with no change noted from FQ2 position. • The number of teams that have delivered 75% or more of the Universal Health Visiting Pathway (UHVP) reports 87% for FQ3, up from 78% FQ2. Page 136
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3 • FQ3 Number of Public Sector staff who have received at least basic training in how to identify and respond to women and children affected by Violence Against Women & Girls reports cumulative 250 against cumulative target of 90. • Percentage of Criminal Justice social work reports submitted 2 days before court reports is noted at 91% in FQ3, against 90% target and an increase from 82% reported in FQ2 Performance below target & areas for improvement: • The percentage of Child Protection Planning Meetings (CPPM's) held within 28 days of the initial referral reports 33% in FQ3 against 90% target and increase from 17% noted in FQ2. • Mental Health Services (CAMHS) children and young people seen within 18 weeks of referral reports 39% FQ3 against 85% target and a decrease from 73% reported in FQ2. • The number of statutory individual Health Assessments commenced within four weeks of coming into care in FQ3 reports 75% down from 100% for FQ2 4.2.2 Telecare and Digital Performance across 13 Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for Strategic Planning, Performance & Technology Services shows 4 KPIs (31%) on track, with 9 KPIs (69%) reported as off track against the targets set for FQ3 24/25. Performance on track reports a decrease of 7% from the reported FQ2 24/25 position (38%) It should be acknowledged that nationally waiting time breaches are measured against a zero target. Local targets have been set to monitor progress and improvements to reduce the number of patients on waiting lists across varied health specialties. Performance on or above target: • The implementation of Just Checking activity monitoring equipment was successfully completed in 8 homes, down slightly from 9 in FQ2 but remains above the target (7) for FQ3. • Digital blood pressure monitoring in Primary Care continues to be rolled out, with 79 unique patients using the service by FQ3 against a target of 42, consistent with FQ2 levels. • Currently, 45% of telecare clients have enhanced packages, which are on target and an increase from 42% noted in FQ2. Further work is needed to accurately track this metric. • The e-health department resolved 100% of IT support requests during Q3, up from 99% in FQ2. Performance below target & areas for improvement: • FQ3 reported 169 new clients to Telecare, a 23% decrease compared to the previous quarter (219) and below the target of 200. • Progress in the digitalisation of telecare equipment has increased by 11% to 65% for FQ3, however this is below the 70% target set for the end of the period. • Consultations delivered via Near Me have continued to decline, from 999 in FQ2 to 888 in FQ3, against the quarterly target of 1025, showing no growth. • The number of telecare clients overdue for their annual review has decreased to 51%, below the 50% target. Work is continuing to improve data quality around this measure. • There were zero Silvercloud referrals reported in FQ3, a fall from 57 in FQ2 against the quarterly target of 60. • 96% of FOI requests were completed within the statutory timescale, against 100% and down from 100% noted in FQ2. Page 137
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4 • Waiting times for cancer appointments at 31 and 62 days reported 15 cases, an increase from 12 in FQ2 against a target of zero. • New outpatient waiting times breaches over 12 weeks were noted at 49%, compared to the 46% target, no change from FQ2. • Outpatient long waiting times (over 52 weeks) were noted at 4.8%, an increase from 3.3% in FQ2 and above the target of 2.8%. 4.2.3 Primary Care Performance across 10 Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for Primary Care shows 6 KPIs (60%) on track, with 4 KPIs (40%) reported as off track against the targets set for FQ3 24/25. This is a reported decrease of 10% from 70% on track in FQ2 24/25. Performance on or above target: • 81% of children who received Fluoride Varnish treatment did not require further dental treatment, consistent with FQ2 levels. • 54% of eligible residents have so far received their Winter Covid 19 booster. This is 7% higher than the national average and up from 4% noted at FQ2 end. • Across the HSCP GP practices operated the duration of FQ3 without resorting to contingency measures. Decease from 55 instances noted in FQ2. • GP practices remained at level zero during FQ3 resulting in no reduction in services provided. • 4.5% of consultations by GPs and other HSCW within the primary care setting were done digitally, meeting the target set (4.5%) • Primary Care Out-of-Hours Services covered 50% of all recorded out of hour consultations during FQ3, an increase from 46% in FQ 2 and exceeding their 45% target. Performance below target & areas for improvement: • 2 GP practices were returned to HSCP Control during FQ3, above a zero target and an increase from FQ2 (0). • 93% of children at 12 months of age received their 6 in 1 vaccination missing the 95% national target, down from 96% reported at FQ2. (data for this indicator is 1 quarter behind due to availability of statistics) • The Oral Health Improvement Team only managed to deliver 94% of their planned activity, down from 95% in FQ2 and against a target of 100%. • HSCP Dental services utilised 61% of clinic appointments, missing their 90% target. This is an improved position from 48% noted in FQ2. 4.2.4 Public Health Performance across 5 Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for Public Health shows 4 KPIs (80%) on track against the targets set for FQ3 24/25. Performance on track reports a decrease of 20% from the reported FQ2 24/25 position (100%). Performance on or above target: • Increase the monthly number of quit dates set, supported by NHS smoking cessation advisors or jointly through shared care with pharmacy, by people in the most deprived 40% areas in Argyll. Performance this quarter has significantly exceeded the target, with Page 138
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5 28 quit dates achieved against a target of 10. Whilst significantly above target it shows a 3% decrease compared to FQ2. • Increase the number of engagement activities delivered in communities and supported through Living Well Networks. Performance continues to be above target, with an actual of 29 against a target of 20. This represents a 12% increase compared to FQ2. • Increase the number of referrals to community link workers supported by “We Are with You”. Performance this quarter achieved approximately 44% above the target, with an actual performance of 145 against a target of 101. The actual number of referrals is above target but 32% less than FQ2. • Number of instances working with Scottish Government or National Agencies on National Strategy and Policy Development. This is a new measure for 24/25 with a target initially set as 1. FQ3 noted 13 instances of working with Scottish Government or National Agencies on National Strategy and Policy development. Performance below target & areas for improvement: • Increase the number of people in Argyll and Bute attending training in the following areas, Money Counts, Behaviour Change, Mental Health and Suicide Prevention. The rolling target from 23/24 continues into 24/25, with the expectation of 17 additional clients each quarter. In FQ3 we fell 4% short of our target with 114 attendances, against a target of 119. 4.2.5 Finance Performance across 6 KPIs for Financial services notes 1 (17%) on track, with 5 (83%) off track against the targets set for Q3 24/25. This is a reported decrease of 66% from FQ2, where 5 (83%) of KPIs were on track. Performance on or above target: • Older People External Residential actual spend reports 95%, this is 5% below projected target in FQ3, with variance of 23% from the FQ2 position. Performance below target & areas for improvement: • Costs for Hospital Delayed Discharges in FQ3 report £453,500 (43%) over the target of £317,000 and an increase from £306,500 in FQ2. • GP prescribing expenditure notes actual spend being £126,000 (0.6%) over the projected spending target in FQ3. This is an improved position from FQ2, where performance was noted as 2% over the target. • Agency and Locum staffing expenditure reports a reduction of 1%, failing to meet the target reduction of 10%. However, this is an improvement on the FQ2 position, where a 6% increase was recorded. • Older People Internal Residential actual spend notes being over projected target by 8% for FQ3. This has increased from FQ2 position where 83% actual was noted. • FQ3 Older People Homecare actual spend reports being 4% above the projected target. This is an increase from the FQ2 position, where actual was below projected 92% 4.2.6 Carers Performance across 4 Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for Carers shows 3 KPIs (75%) on track, with 1 KPI (25%) reported as off track against the targets set for FQ3 24/25. Performance on track is consistent with the reported FQ2 24/25 position. Page 139
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6 Performance on or above target: • The number of Unpaid Carers Supported across A&B’s Carers Centres continues to be over the target of 3000 per quarter, with a slight increase to 3483 (4%) noted from previous FQ2. • The ACSP reviews, which now include welfare contacts, are well above target of 700 per quarter with 1739 achieved in FQ3 compared to 1396 in FQ2. • Young Carer Statements completed in FQ3 notes 53, is up from 35 recorded in FQ2 and remains above the target of 4 Performance below target & areas for improvement: • The number of Adult Carer Support Plans completed saw a significant increase this quarter (+11%), rising from 114 to 127 - just below the target of 133. 4.2.7 Allied Health Professionals Performance across 7 Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for Allied Health Professionals shows 4 KPIs (57%) on track, with 3 KPIs (43%) reported as off track against the targets set for FQ3 24/25. Performance on track reports a decrease of 14% from the reported FQ2 24/25 position (71%). It should be acknowledged that nationally waiting time breaches are measured against a zero target. Local targets have been set to monitor progress and improvements to reduce the number of patients on waiting lists across varied health specialties. Performance on or above target: • MSK Outpatient Referral waits breaching >4 weeks are slightly up in FQ3 to 1029 (+6%) and meeting target of 1120. • Outpatients waiting over 12 weeks for AHP services continue their trend downwards in FQ3 – with a reported total of 467 against the target of 500. • Community Patient Discharges saw a slight decline in FQ3, dropping from 2,034 to 2,027, while still exceeding the target of 1,632. • The percentage of New versus Return Outpatient Physio AHP Referrals remains above the 30% target, with 31% noted in FQ3. Performance below target & areas for improvement: • AHP Priority 1&2 referrals breaching > 4 weeks in FQ2 reported 55 against a target of 48. • Priority 3 and 4 Community Patient Referrals breaching over 12 weeks have increased quarter on quarter, with FQ3 reporting 770 against a target of 400, up 35% from 558 noted in FQ2. • AHP Outpatient Completed Waits decreased by 10% in FQ3, with 929 reported, just missing the target of 945. However, this remains part of an overall upward trend over the past year. Page 140
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7 4.2.8 Delayed Discharges Performance across 6 Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for Delayed Discharges shows 2 KPI (33%) on track, with 4 KPIs (67%) reported as off track against the targets set for FQ3 24/25. Performance on track reports a decrease of 50% from the reported FQ2 24/25 position (83%) For FY 2024/25 Delayed Discharges KPIs, we use a count at the end of quarter census point instead of full month data, as this aligns better with national reporting. It should be acknowledged nationally Delayed Discharges are measured against a zero target. Local targets have been set to monitor progress and improvements to reduce the number of patients showing as a Delayed Discharge. Performance on or above target: • Reduce the Number of people delayed in hospital with AWI code at Monthly Census Point. Performance was above target having achieved actual of 4 against a maximum target of 6. In this quarter, the number of people delayed with AWI code recorded remained at 3 in October and November and increased to 4 in December. • At the end of Q3, the number of people delayed in hospital awaiting assessment (Codes 11A and 11B) was 5, which is 14% of census clients, against a target of 10. The target was based on the average for the previous four quarters of 23/24, which ranged from 9 to 11. This is a noted reduction of 29% from FQ2 position which reported 7. Performance below target & areas for improvement: • The overall number of people delayed in hospital at Monthly Census Point as at the end of Q3 was 35, against the target of 31. This reflects an increase of 13% compared to FQ2 position (31). The target was set based on the average over the last four quarters of 23/24, where client numbers ranged between 29 and 34. • At the end of Q3 census point, the overall length of stay in a hospital (Delayed Discharge Bed Days) at Monthly Census Point was 907 against the target of 634. This represents an increase of 48% with 613 recorded in FQ2. The target was set based on the average bed days over the past four quarters of 23/24, which ranged from 598 to 695. • The number of people delayed awaiting a Care Home Placement was 10, compared to a target of 4, 150% over the target. The actual number of people waiting has increased by 900% (1 to 10) from FQ2 to FQ3. The target was set based on the average from the previous four quarters of 23/24, which ranged from 0-5. • At the end of FQ3, the number of people delayed in hospital awaiting care at home availability was 15, representing 43% of census clients, compared to a target of 12. The target was based on the average of the last four quarters of 23/24, which ranged from 8 to 14. This has decreased by 25% compared to FQ2 position (20). 4.2.9 Adult Social Care Performance across 4 Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for Adult Social Care shows 3 KPIs (75%) on track, with 1 KPI (25%) reported as off track against the targets set for FQ3 24/25. Performance on track reports an increase of 25% from the reported FQ2 24/25 position (50%). Performance on or above target: Page 141
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8 • Reduce the number of Unplanned Admissions to A&B hospitals directly from a care home has remained steady at 16 in both FQ2 and FQ3, which is below the target of 36. • Increasing the occupancy rates across A&B Care Homes has remained steady at 96% across FQ1, FQ2 and FQ3 and 2024/25. This KPI is now measured against available places (previously all empty beds). • The FQ3 performance was looking to reduce the value of assessed unmet need for care at home. FQ3 actual was £14,718.26, which is £1,960.78 (12%) below the target. Target is set at previous quarter’s value. Performance below target & areas for improvement: • Increasing the % of Older People who had their homecare monitoring review completed within 6 months was noted at 40% for FQ3, against a target of 49%, which is 18% below target. Compared to FQ2, where the actual was 37%, this represents a 3% increase (40%). 4.2.10 Community Hospitals Performance across 5 Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for Community Hospitals shows 4 KPIs (80%) on track, with 1 KPI (20%) reported as off track against the targets set for FQ3 24/25. Performance on track has remained consistent, with an 80% track record across both FQ2 and FQ3. Performance on or above target: • The average length of stay for inpatients in A&B Community Hospitals was reduced to 7.4 days across the quarter, against the target of 7.8 days. This represents a 4% improvement compared to FQ2, where the average length of stay was 7.7 days. • A&E attendances meeting the 4 hrs wait target reached 95.1%, exceeding the 95% target by 0.1%. This is a slight reduction of 2% from FQ2, where performance was noted as 97.1%. • Maintain A&B Community Hospitals Bed occupancy rates below 80% target. Bed occupancy rates remained well below target at 70.6% for FQ3, marking a slight increase of 1.3% from 69.3% in FQ2. • Reduce the number of falls being reported in a Community Hospital setting in A&B. In FQ2, we reported 38 falls, well below the target of 54. This showed an increase of 1 fall from FQ2 (3%). Performance below target & areas for improvement: • Reduce the rate of unplanned admissions to Community Hospitals for 65+ population. This KPI reported 490 admissions, 8% above the target of 452 for FQ3. This represents approximately 1% increase compared to FQ2. 4.2.11 Adults with Long Term Conditions / Adult Support & Protection / Alcohol Drugs Partnership Performance across 8 Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for Adults with Long Term Conditions Services shows 3 KPIs (38%) on track, with 5 KPIs (62%) reported as off track against the targets set for FQ3 24/25. There is no change from FQ2 24/25. Page 142
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9 It should be acknowledged that nationally waiting time breaches for New Mental Health Outpatients (12 weeks) and Psychological Therapy (18 Weeks) are measured against a zero target. Local targets have been set to monitor progress and improvements to reduce the number of patients on waiting lists across varied health specialties Performance on or above target: • 10 Adults are on the dynamic support register with a category red or amber status, in line with Q3 target of 10, and down from 12 reported in FQ2. • FQ3 noted 30 Adults waiting for a psychological therapy service against the target of 175 or fewer, and a reduction from 40 in the previous quarter. • 90.8% of individuals referred to Alcohol and Drug treatment services were seen within the target waiting period, above the 90% target and an increase from 89.6% at FQ2. Performance below target & areas for improvement: • 12% of Adults with a Learning Disability were reported as overdue their annual review, up from 7% in FQ2 and above the 3% target. • 502 Adults were waiting for a Mental Health outpatient service, missing the target of 390 or less. And in increase of 13% from FQ2 position (446). • FQ3 noted 30% of Adult Support and Protection 'duty to inquire' procedures were completed within the 5 working day target, below 70% target and no change from FQ2. • Only 30% of Adult Support and Protection inquiries requiring investigative powers were completed within the 15 working day target (70%), down from 55% reported in FQ2. • 79% of Case Conferences began within 20 days of referral or within 12 weeks of the initial conference for review, an improvement on previous FQ2 (53%), but below the 100% target. 4.2.12 Rural General Hospitals (Lorn & Island Hospital) Performance across 9 Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for Rural General Hospitals (LIH) shows 4 KPIs (44%) on track, with 5 KPIs (56%) reported as off track against the targets set for FQ3 24/25. Performance on track reports an 11% increase from the reported FQ2 position. Performance on or above target: • Reduce the rate of unplanned admissions to LIH 65+ population. FQ3 performance noted the actual number of unplanned admissions was 322, down 16% from 383 in FQ2, meeting the target set of 345. • Reduce the number of LIH A&E Attendances that result in an unplanned admission. The FQ3 performance for reducing unplanned admission from A&E attendances was on target with both actual and target 19.2%. This is a decrease of approx. 1% from FQ2, where the rate was 19.8% and off target. • Reduce the number of falls being reported in a hospital setting in LIH. FQ3 performance noted the actual number of falls was 26 against a target of 26. This reflects a 21% reduction in falls from FQ2, where 33 Falls were reported. • Reduce the number of instances of tissue viability in Lorn & Islands Hospital. The target was to reduce the number of tissue viability instances to no more than 4. FQ3 performance on actual instances was 2, a reduction of 4 (67%) reported in FQ2. Performance below target & areas for improvement: Page 143
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10 • Reduce the total number of unplanned bed days in LIH. The actual number of unplanned bed days reported was 3327, 4 above the target of 3323, based on the 23/24 average. This represents a 12% increase from FQ2 of 2969. • Reduce the Average Length of Stay for inpatients in LIH. FQ3 Performance noted we achieved an actual rate of 5.3, against the target of 4.8. This is up 26% from 4.2 noted in FQ2. • Maintain LIH Bed Occupancy Rates below 90% target. FQ3 performance noted an actual rate of 92.4%, approx. 7% increase from 85.8% noted at FQ2. • Reduce the number of medication errors in LIH. The quarterly indicative target was set at no more than 6 per reporting period, 6 based on 2023/24 average. In FQ3 we noted an actual of 12, an increase of 3 (33%) from FQ2. 4.2.13 National Health & Wellbeing Outcome Indicators & Ministerial Steering Group Integration Indicators The National Health and Wellbeing Outcomes provide a strategic framework for the planning and delivery of health and social care services. This suite of outcomes serves to focus on improving the experiences and quality of services for people using those services, carers, and their families. These indicators form the basis of the annual reporting requirement for Health and Social Care Partnerships across Scotland. The national indicators will be updated and reported within A&B HSCP’s Integrated Performance Management Framework to provide the national performance position alongside the local service Key Performance Indicators suite. The latest data in relation to 26 HWBOI and MSG Indicators reports 50% on track, with 13 on track and 13 off track. An overview of A&B HSCP’s latest performance against the 26 measures is reported in Appendix 1. It should be noted that reporting periods vary across the suite of national indicator measures, with some measures reported quarterly affected by national reporting data lag. 5. CONTRIBUTION TO STRATEGIC PRIORITIES The monitoring and reporting against Key Performance Indicators using the Integrated Performance Management Framework and Dashboard ensures the HSCP can deliver against key strategic priorities. This in-turn is aligned with the Strategic Plan and key objectives. 6. GOVERNANCE IMPLICATIONS 6.1 Financial Impact Page 144
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11 Financial performance is evidenced within the IPMF Dashboard ensuring best value as well as evidencing the impact and performance against organisational budget savings. 6.2 Staff Governance Key performance indicators within the IPMF ensure that staff governance requirements continue to be progressed and developed include health and safety, wellbeing and new service redesign and working practices. 6.3 Care and Clinical Governance Clinical Governance and patient safety remain at the core of prioritised service delivery against the new IPMF Dashboard and National Health & Wellbeing Outcomes Indicators. The new governance structure supporting the IPMF ensures that the Clinical & Care Governance Committee remain central to performance improvement. The development of the IPMF is focussed on moving away from previous traditional styles of reporting to a fully collaborative approach with Head of Service and Service Lead commentary. 7. PROFESSIONAL ADVISORY Data used within the performance dashboard is fully accessible in SharePoint with data trends and forecasting are identified to give wider strategic context. This provides the HSCP professional advisors with self –service performance information to inform their role in maintaining professional standards and outcomes. 8. EQUALITY & DIVERSITY IMPLICATIONS The Integrated Performance Management Framework captures relevant indicators used to inform the HSCP E&D work. 8.1 PROTECTED CHARACTERISTICS Performance detailed within this report acknowledges the rights of the Child (UNCRC), Islands. Fairer Scotland, Socio-economic Duty, Equalities - protected characteristics. 9. GENERAL DATA PROTECTION PRINCIPLES COMPLIANCE Data use and sharing within this report and IPMF performance dashboard is covered within the Argyll and Bute Council & NHS Highland Data Sharing Agreement 10. RISK ASSESSMENT Risks and mitigations associated with performance data sources and reporting are managed and identified within the monthly Performance & Improvement Team- Work Plan. 10.1 STRATEGIC, OPERATIONAL OR CLIMATE RISK Performance reports are used by operational management to identify service delivery risk and to inform mitigation action accordingly. 11. PUBLIC & USER INVOLVEMENT & ENGAGEMENT Performance reporting is available for the public via Argyll and Bute Council and NHS Highland websites. The IPMF dashboard utilises SharePoint to support manager and staff access across the HSCP. 12. CONCLUSION Page 145
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12 The committee is asked to consider and acknowledge FQ3 2024/25 (July - September) performance as detailed in the IPMF Dashboard. The committee should also note that the 2025-26 review of KPI’s has commenced. 13. DIRECTIONS Directions required to Council, NHS Board or both. Directions to: tick No Directions required x Argyll & Bute Council NHS Highland Health Board Argyll & Bute Council and NHS Highland Health Board 14. PREVIOUS REVIEW OF THE REPORT Meeting Title of report Date Output (if relevant) Integration Joint Board Health & Social Care Partnership - Performance Report – FQ3 2024/25 (October – December) 26/03/2025 Clinical and Care Governance Committee Health & Social Care Partnership - Performance Report – FQ3 2024/25 (October – December) 1/05/2025 REPORT AUTHOR AND CONTACT Author Name: Douglas Hunter- Senior Manager Performance & Improvement Email: douglas.hunter@argyll-bute.gov.uk Page 146
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13 Appendix 1 – HWBOI & MSG Integration Indicators. Core Suite of Integration Indicators Data notes 67% (6 of 9) HWBOI Outcomes measures reporting as above the national Scotland Rate. It is worth noting that performance will be influenced and vary in line with the total number of respondents participating in this voluntary survey. As such, caution should be noted with regards to previous comparison and trends HWBOI - Performance Page 147
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14 Data notes 55.5% (5 of 9) HWBOI Performance measures reporting as above the national Scotland Rate. *Indicators 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 18 Calendar year 2023 is used here as a proxy for 2023/24 due to the national data for 2023/24 being incomplete. This is in line with guidance issued by Public Health Scotland which was communicated to all Health and Social Care Partnerships. Using more complete calendar year data for 2023 should improve the consistency of reporting between Health and Social Care Partnerships. Ministerial Steering Group Integration Indicators Page 148
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15 Data notes 25% (2of 8) MSG Indicators reporting as above the national Scotland rate. MSG Indicators data notes that all MSG measures have increased in the last reporting year. Activity around Emergency Admissions, Unplanned Bed Days, A&E attendances and Delayed Discharge Bed Days all noted performance exceeding pre –Covid levels. This highlights the necessity to consider approaches to alleviate systems pressures around Urgent and Unscheduled Care and expedite hospital flow. Appendix 2 - Delayed Discharge Sitrep – 6th January 2025 Page 149
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL OBAN, LORN & THE ISLES AREA COMMITTEE LEGAL & REGULATORY SUPPORT 11 JUNE 2025 AREA COMMITTEE MEETING VENUES – 2025/26 1.0 INTRODUCTION 1.1 At the Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee on 11 December 2024 it was agreed that meetings of the Area Committee should take place in venues around Wards 4 & 5 in line with the council’s updated priorities and that a report should be brought forward suggesting venues for meetings once the Council had set its programme of meetings for 2025/26. This report takes forward that decision. 2.0 RECOMMENDATIONS 2.1 The Area Committee is asked to agree that: A. Meetings of the Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee as set out in the approved Programme of Meetings 2025/26 will be held as follows: 10 September 2025 – Dalavich 10 December – Oban 11 March – Taynuilt 10 June - Tiree B. prioritisation is given to scheduling the next round of meetings to venues suggested in paragraph 3.3 3.0 DETAIL 3.1 Currently meetings of the Area Committee are held on a Hybrid basis. To facilitate this, the council has portable meeting equipment which can be used subject to a reliable and robust Wi-Fi connection. Hybrid meetings would allow the committee to meet in local communities throughout the Oban, Lorn & the Isles area and is consistent with the Council’s priority to build stronger connections and collaborations with communities to increase empowerment. 3.2 The option to provide Hybrid means to attend meetings is consistent with council policy, will provide the opportunity for members of the committee and appropriate officers to attend via Microsoft Teams, and ensure that members of the public can either engage by those remote means, or attend meetings in Page 151 Agenda Item 9
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person, that they may not otherwise have been able to attend. 3.3 The Council agreed the Programme of Meetings for 2025/26 on 27 February 2025 and engagement with local communities, via the community councils in Wards 4 and 5, has taken place to seek assistance in identifying suitable meeting locations, capable of hosting hybrid meetings. In addition to those locations suggested for the 2025/26 Programme, Appin and Luing have also been identified as having capability of hosting hybrid meetings and it is suggested that these locations be prioritised for any future meetings held. 3.4 It is recognised that there will be other suitable venues for hosting remoting meetings and Council Officers will continue to work with communities to identify other potential venues which will inform any future report on meeting venues. 4.0 CONCLUSION 4.1 Members are asked to give consideration to the options for holding the OLI Area Committee meetings at venues across the 2 ward areas which the area committee members represent. 5.0 IMPLICATIONS 5.1 Policy – Proposals are consistent with the Council Priorities 5.2 Financial - While it is not anticipated that there will be any increase in costs of hiring venues, there is a potential for additional costs incurred in terms of Members attending these meetings although it is clear that a number of the committee members prefer the option for remote attendance so increases may be negligible. 5.3 Legal – none, proposals remain consistent with the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 which requires meetings of councils to be held in public. 5.4 HR – none, meetings will continue to be supporting using existing staff resources. 5.5 Fairer Scotland Duty 5.5.1 Equalities – protect characteristics – venues proposed are accessible and meetings are open to all members of the public. 5.5.2 Socio-economic Duty – remote access to meetings should continue to have a positive impact on those without transport, or who have care responsibilities and cannot be away from home 5.5.3 Islands – Proposals include one suggested island visit, but are otherwise equally split between locations in Ward 4 and Ward 5. There will be implications in terms of weather as to when travel to and from island locations might be accommodated within the Programme of Page 152
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Meetings, given there are Spring and Winter meeting dates when travel may be disrupted due to inclement weather, and reduced options for travel are available. Recommendations take those type of considerations into account. 5.6 Climate Change – there may be some additional travel depending on the location of the meeting but with remote means being a popular way to engage at this particular meetings, it is not anticipated that emissions associated with travel will necessarily increase. 5.7 Risk – there are risks in terms of use of non-council buildings for meetings. Those risks are managed by committee staff when setting up the meeting space. Also, weather disruption or loss of venue are risks which will be monitored in the lead up to meetings taking place. 5.8 Customer Service – proposals to meet in the communities served by the members of the Area Committee will widen opportunities for customers to engage with the committee. 5.9 The Rights of the Child (UNCRC) – no impact Douglas Hendry Executive Director with responsibility for Legal and Regulatory Support 1 May 2025 Councillor Mark Irvine – Policy Lead for Community Planning and Corporate Services For further information contact: Melissa Stewart, Democratic Services Manager (01546) 604331 Page 153
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL OBAN, LORN AND THE ISLES AREA COMMITTEE LEGAL & REGULATORY SUPPORT 11 June 2025 XX MARCH 2021 CHARITABLE TRUSTS, BEQUESTS AND TRUST FUNDS – AWARD RECOMMENDATIONS 1.0 INTRODUCTION 1.1 This report gives Members information regarding a number of applications that have been received for support from several funds. It also reviews the distribution arrangements of the MacKinnon Ledingham Bequest, Archibald Dow Bequest and Coals for the Poor Oban following the first 12 months of distribution arrangements for these funds. 2.0 RECOMMENDATIONS 2.1 The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee are asked to: 1. note the awards made from the John of Lorn Bequest since March 2025; 2. agree to award £50 to the two individual applicants who meet the criteria of the MacKinnon Ledigham Bequest; 3. agree to award £50 to the two individual applicants who meet the criteria of the Archibald Dow Bequest; 4. agree to award £50 to the one individual applicant who meets the criteria of the Coals for the Poor Oban; and 5. note that the charitable trusts, bequests and trust funds annual report will be considered in December 2025 and that further promotion of the availability of the funds will be undertaken. 3.0 JOHN OF LORN BEQUEST 3.1 The Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee on 09 September 2020 agreed new distribution arrangements for the John of Lorn Bequest, which had been established to support ‘poor persons resident in the Burgh of Oban’. In order to be considered for an award applicants must: 3.1.1 be in receipt of a qualifying benefit (Jobseekers Allowance, Employment Support Allowance, Income Support, or Universal Credit) and for those people who are employed/self-employed, they must be in receipt of some amount of Universal Credit as well (a nil payment due to deductions for earned income would mean they do not qualify); Page 155 Agenda Item 10a
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3.1.2 live within the Burgh of Oban; and 3.1.3 be over the age of 16. 3.2 Furthermore, it was agreed that successful individual applicants would receive £50 while those applying on behalf of their family would receive £100. 3.3 The Area Committee on 14 September 2022 agreed to delegate to the Executive Director with responsibility for Legal and Regulatory Support or officers nominated by him, in consultation with the Chair, the authority to make awards from the John of Lorn Bequest using the criteria agreed in September 2020 and that reports be submitted to subsequent Area Committees to update trustees on awards made under this delegation. 3.4 Prior to this delegation those in need of support could wait up to 14 weeks for payment. Applications are now processed on receipt with payments made once applicants submit their banking details. 3.5 A total of 8 applications have been received since the March 2025 meeting of the Area Committee. Officers, in consultation with the Chair have confirmed awards for 4 family and 3 individual applications, with a total of £550 being awarded to individuals living within the Burgh. 3.6 One application was refused. Applications will only be refused if the applicant has either received a grant this calendar year or they live out with the Burgh of Oban. Details of each application can be found at appendix 1. 3.7 The total funds available for distribution from the John of Lorn Bequest at the time of preparing this report is around £1.4k. It is anticipated that the funds from this Bequest will become exhausted before the end of 2025 at which point Trustees will be asked to place a moratorium on it. 4.0 MACKINNON LEDIGHAM BEQUEST, ARCHIBALD DOW BEQUEST & COALS FOR THE POOR OBAN 5.1 On 06 March 2024 the Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee agreed distribution arrangements for the MacKinnon Ledigham Bequest, Archibald Dow Bequest and Coals for the Poor Oban and agreed that a review of these arrangements be undertaken following the first 12 months of operation. 5.2 To be eligible to access the MacKinnon Ledigham Bequest applicants must be of state pension age, and live within the Ross of Mull, with successful applicants receiving £50. 4.3 3 applications have been received with both being recommended for award. Details of each application can be found at appendix 2. Given the small number of eligible individuals within this locality it is proposed to continue with the existing criteria and arrangements and that Officers continue to advertise and promote the fund in the hope of attracting further applications. Page 156
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4.4 The total funds available for distribution from the MacKinnon Ledigham Bequest at the time of preparing this report is around £4.5k. 4.5 In order to be considered for an award from the Archibald Dow Bequest applicants must be a resident of Taynuilt and: • in receipt of a qualifying benefit (Jobseekers Allowance, Employment Support Allowance, Income Support, or Universal Credit); and • for those people who are employed/self-employed, they must be in receipt of some amount of Universal Credit as well (a nil payment due to deductions for earned income would mean they do not qualify). 4.6 Furthermore, it was agreed that successful individual applicants would receive £50 and families would receive £100. 4.7 A total of 4 applications have been received since the introduction of the distribution, 2 of which were considered in June 2024. 2 new applications have been received with both being recommended for award. Details of each application can be found at appendix 3. 4.8 The number of applications that have been submitted are consistent with comparable funds in other administrative areas. Consequently, it is proposed to continue with the existing criteria and arrangements and that Officers will continue to advertise and promote the fund. 4.9 The total funds available for distribution from the Archibald Dow Bequest at the time of preparing this report is around £1.4k. 4.10 To ensure a consistency in approach it was agreed that the criteria for the Coals for the Poor Oban be the same as the Archibald Dow Bequest, specifically applications would only be welcomed by those on a qualifying benefit or from those who are employed/self-employed in receipt of some amount of Universal Credit. 4.11 In order to be considered for an award applicants must be over the age of 16 with awards set at £50 for individuals and £100 for families and limited to one award each calendar year. 4.12 A single application was received during 2024. 2 new applications have been received with, one being recommended for award. The other is not considered for an award as the applicant lives out with the Burgh. Details of each application can be found at appendix 4. 4.13 The number of applications that have been submitted are consistent with comparable funds both within and out with the administrative area. Consequently, it is proposed to continue with the existing arrangements and that Officers will continue to advertise and promote the fund. 4.14 The total funds available for distribution from the Coals for the Poor Oban at the Page 157
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time of preparing this report is around £2.2k. 5.0 CONCLUSION 5.1 Members are asked to consider the applications that have been received for support from the John of Lorn Bequest, MacKinnon Ledigham Bequest, Archibald Dow Bequest and Coals for the Poor Oban and to approve the financial awards recommended within the report. 6.0 IMPLICATIONS 6.1 Policy – None 6.2 Financial – None, the Council acts as trustee for the Fund, it does not represent assets of the Council. However, there is a risk that the Council would have to repay the Trust if an objection was raised as to the use of the funds. 6.3 Legal – Area Committees, as Trustees, must ensure that the distribution arrangements comply with the terms of the funds, failure to do so would result in the Council being liable. 6.4 HR – None 6.5 Fairer Scotland Duty – None 6.5.1 Equalities – protected characteristics – None 6.5.2 Socio-economic Duty – None 6.5.3 Islands – None 6.6 Climate Change – None 6.7 Risk – None 6.8 Customer Service – None 6.9 The Rights of the Child (UNCRC) – None Douglas Hendry - Executive Director with responsibility for Legal and Regulatory Support Councillor Mark Irvine, Policy Lead for Community Planning and Corporate Services May 2025 For further information contact: Page 158
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Stuart McLean, Committee Manager Tel. No: 01436 658717 Email: Stuart.Mclean@argyll-bute.gov.uk APPENDICES: Appendix 1: Spreadsheet of applications – John of Lorn Bequest (exempt) Appendix 2: Spreadsheet of applications – MacKinnon Ledigham Trust (exempt) Appendix 3: Spreadsheet of applications – Archibald Dow Bequest (exempt) Appendix 4: Spreadsheet of applications – Coals for the Poor Oban (exempt) Page 159
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Document is Restricted Page 161 Agenda Item 10bNOT FOR PUBLICATION by virtue of paragraph(s) 6 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government(Scotland) Act 1973
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Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee Workplan 2024-25 Committee Date Report Description Lead Service and contact officer Regularity of occurrence/consideration Date for Reports to Committee Services Additional Comment 11 June 2025 11 June 2025 Area Performance Report FQ4 24/25 Improvement and HR – Claire McAlister Quarterly Report 19 May 2025 11 June 2025 Roads and Infrastructure Service Update Development and Infrastructure Stephen Hall Quarterly Report 19 May 2025 11 June 2025 HSCP Bi-Annual Update Report Health & Social Care Partnership – Charlotte Craig Bi-Annual Report 19 May 2025 11 June 2025 Secondary School Reports - Oban High School Head Teacher Peter Bain Annual Report 19 May 2025 11 June 2025 Secondary School Reports - Tiree High School Head Teacher Peter Bain Annual Report 19 May 2025 11 June 2025 Secondary School Reports - Tobermory High School Head Teacher Shelly Carmichael Annual Report 19 May 2025 11 June 2025 Charitable Trusts and Bequests Legal and Regulatory Support As required 19 May 2025 Cut off for applications 19 May 2025 11 June 2025 Charitable Trusts, Bequests & Trust Funds – Review of Stuart McLean, Legal & Regulatory Support Review following initial 12 Months’ operation 19 May 2025 To be combined with above report Page 165 Agenda Item 11
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Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee Workplan 2024-25 Committee Date Report Description Lead Service and contact officer Regularity of occurrence/consideration Date for Reports to Committee Services Additional Comment Distribution Arrangements 11 June 2025 Area Committee Meeting Venues Melissa Stewart Legal and Regulatory Support Annually 19 May 2025 11 June 2025 Area Committee Workplan Melissa Stewart Legal and Regulatory Support For updating 19 May 2025 10 September 2025 10 September 2025 Area Performance Report FQ1 25/26 Improvement and HR – Claire McAlister Quarterly Report 18 August 2025 10 September 2025 Roads and Infrastructure Service Update Roads and Infrastructure Services - Stephen Hall Quarterly Report 18 August 2025 10 September 2025 End of Project Reporting - Supporting Communities Fund Applications 2024/25 Rona Gold/Aileen Cameron, Chief Executive’s Unit Annual Report 19 May 2025 10 September 2025 Supporting Communities Fund Applications 2025/26 Rona Gold/Kirsty McLuckie Chief Executive Annual Report 18 August 2025 10 September 2025 Annual Recycling Performance Report Roads and Infrastructure Services – Stephen Hall Annual Report 18 August 2025 Page 166
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Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee Workplan 2024-25 Committee Date Report Description Lead Service and contact officer Regularity of occurrence/consideration Date for Reports to Committee Services Additional Comment 10 September 2025 Charitable Trusts and Bequests Stuart McLean, Legal & Regulatory As required 18 August 2025 Cut off for applications 18 August 2025 10 September 2025 Area Committee Workplan Legal & Regulatory Support- Melissa Stewart For updating 18 August 2025 10 September 2025 Distribution of Funds – Miss Agnes Angus Bequest Tom Murphy Development and Infrastructure Agreed to come back with proposals prior to the end of 2025 – check for Sept meeting 10 December 2025 10 December 2025 Area Performance Report FQ2 25/26 Improvement and HR – Claire McAlister Quarterly report 17 November 2025 10 December 2025 Roads and Infrastructure Service Update Development and Infrastructure - Stephen Hall Quarterly report 17 November 2025 10 December 2025 ACHA Annual Update Chief Executive ACHA Annual Report 17 November 2025 10 December 2025 HSCP Performance Report FQ1 25/26 Apr- Jun Charlotte Craig/Evan Beswick Argyll and Bute HSCP Annual 17 November 2025 10 December 2025 Charitable Trusts and Bequests Legal & Regulatory Support – Stuart McLean As required 17 November 2025 Cut off for applications 17 November 2025 Page 167
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Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee Workplan 2024-25 Committee Date Report Description Lead Service and contact officer Regularity of occurrence/consideration Date for Reports to Committee Services Additional Comment 10 December 2025 Area Committee Workplan Legal & Regulatory Support- Melissa Stewart For updating 17 November 2025 11 March 2026 11 March 2026 Primary School Update Wendy Brownlie, Head of Education Annual Report 15 February 2026 11 March 2026 Area Performance Report FQ3 25/26 Improvement and HR – Claire McAlister Quarterly Report 15 February 2026 11 March 2026 Roads and Infrastructure Service Update Development and Infrastructure - Stephen Hall Quarterly Report 15 February 2026 11 March 2026 Housing Services Activity Update- Strategic Housing investment plan Update (SHIP) Director of Development and Infrastructure – Douglas Whyte Annual Report 15 February 2026 11 March 2026 Active Travel Progress Report 2025-26 Colin Young, Development & Economic Growth Annual Report 15 February 2026 11 March 2026 Charitable Trusts and Bequests Stuart McLean Legal & Regulatory When required 15 February 2026 Cut off for applications 15 February 2026 11 March 2026 Area Committee Workplan Melissa Stewart Legal & Regulatory For updating 15 February 2026 Page 168