Agenda Document Pack - Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-committee - 26/03/2025
Renfrewshire Council · 26 March 2025
Back to Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-committee — 26 March 2025 and its agenda
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19/03/2025 Notice of Meeting and Agenda Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-committee Date Time Venue Wednesday, 26 March 2025 10:00 Council Chambers (Renfrewshire), Council Headquarters, Renfrewshire House, Cotton Street, Paisley, PA1 1AN Membership Councillor Jacqueline Cameron (Convener): Councillor Graeme Clark (Depute Convener): Councillor Anne Hannigan: Councillor Marie McGurk: Councillor Iain Nicolson: Councillor Andy Steel: Further Information This is a meeting which is open to members of the public. A copy of the agenda and reports for this meeting will be available for inspection prior to the meeting at the Customer Service Centre, Renfrewshire House, Cotton Street, Paisley and online at http://renfrewshire.cmis.uk.com/renfrewshire/CouncilandBoards.aspx For further information, please email democratic-services@renfrewshire.gov.uk Members of the Press and Public Members of the press and public wishing to attend the meeting should report to the customer service centre where they will be met and directed to the meeting. Hybrid Meeting Please note that this meeting is scheduled to be held in the Council Chambers. However, it is a hybrid meeting and arrangements have been made for members to join the meeting remotely should they wish. MARK CONAGHAN Head of Corporate Governance
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19/03/2025 Webcasting of Meeting This meeting will be filmed for live or subsequent broadcast via the Council’s internet site – at the start of the meeting the Convener will confirm if all or part of the meeting is being filmed. To find the webcast please navigate to https://renfrewshire.public-i.tv/core/portal/home
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19/03/2025 Items of business Apologies Apologies from members. Declarations of Interest and Transparency Statements Members are asked to declare an interest or make a transparency statement in any item(s) on the agenda and to provide a brief explanation of the nature of the interest or the transparency statement. 1(a) Cost of Living Update Report by Chief Executive. 1 - 12 1(b) Cost of Living Dashboard Presentation by Chief Executive's Service. 13 - 30 2 Fairer Renfrewshire Programme Update Report by Chief Executive. 31 - 38 3 Fairer Renfrewshire Programme - Priorities for 25/26 Report by Chief Executive. 39 - 44 4 Good Food Nation Presentation by Chief Executive's Service.
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1 ________________________________________________________________________ To: Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-Committee On: 26 March 2025 _____________________________________________________________________ Report by: Chief Executive _____________________________________________________________________ Heading: Cost-of-living Update ________________________________________________________________________ 1. Summary 1.1 At each of the Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-Committee meetings, an overview of key context and evidence around current pressures on household finances, both in terms of household income and expenditure has been provided to members. 1.2 Since the last meeting of the Sub-Committee on 5 February 2025, there have been a number of changes in economic factors including a planned increase of 6.4% in the Energy Price Cap from 1 April 2025, meaning households will pay an increasing amount for their energy use, while inflation increased to 3% in the 12 months to January 2025, exceeding the 2% target set by the UK Government. Elected members are asked to note that: • The rate of inflation is standing at 3% in January and has been above the target rate of 2% set by the UK Government for the Bank of England since October 24, when it reached 2.3%. • The inflation rate for food has increased slightly from 3.3% in January, overtaking overall inflation for the first time since September 2024. • The Bank of England interest rate was reduced in February to 4.5% from 4.75% in December and the Bank expects to be able to cut rates further. • The Energy Price Cap, originally introduced by Ofgem in January 2019 to set limits on the underlying rates energy suppliers, is currently at £1,738 from the 1 January until 31 March, but will rise by 6.4% to £1,849 in April 25. 1.3 This paper provides an overview of information collated by officers in relation at both a national and local level where available. Item 1(a) Page 1 of 44
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2 2. Recommendations 2.1 It is recommended that members of the Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-Committee note the content of the report. 3. Background 3.1. At the Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-Committee meeting on 5 February 2025 an overview of key context and evidence around current pressures on household finances, both in terms of household income and expenditure, was examined. Although there has been some easing of cost of living long-term, recent and upcoming changes, especially around food inflation and energy mean that many families are still struggling with costs of living. 3.2. The rising costs of essentials hits low-income families hardest as they spend a greater proportion of their disposable income on these. Concerningly, grocery shoppers are being warned of further food price increases in the coming months and the British Retail Consortium has forecast an average food price rise of 4.2% in the latter half of 2025. 3.3. In addition, the cost of healthy food is rising more quickly that unhealthy food as detailed at part 7 and research from the Food Foundation, indicates that food insecurity is rising, with food insecure households more likely to cut back on food spending on fruit and vegetables as well as dairy and eggs. This research also shows that 38.7% of households on Universal Credit reported experiencing food insecurity. 3.4. Rising fuel costs are also an issue. It is anticipated that the annual energy bill for a household using a typical amount of gas and electricity will go up £111 a year to £1,849 from April 2025. This is the third consecutive price cap rise, and research from Citizens Advice Scotland published in February 2025 shows that people seeking advice from their network had an average energy debt of £2,500 – an 8% increase from last year. 3.5. April traditionally sees changes in charges as the new financial year starts and this may include standard household bills in relation to wider housing and utility costs such as rent or transport costs. 3.6. Benefits rates and wages also tend to rise in April, which will counteract some of the rises. The National Minimum Wage and Living Wage rise in April, and UK benefits linked to inflation will rise by 1.7% in April 2025, as do inflation-linked benefits administered by HMRC. The basic and new State Pension will be uprated by 4.1% from April 2025. 3.7. As was previously reported to elected members, an increasing proportion of households are struggling to pay bills and pay off debts as a result of cost of living increases. A number of reports published since 2022 show increases in the average amount of unsecured debts and arrears owed. Although benefit rates also rise in April, and some rises in charges will not affect those who for example, receive full Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction, concern remains that some low income residents may see their financial situation become increasingly precarious. Page 2 of 44
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3 4. Impacts of cost-of-living crisis Living costs 4.1. The latest insights into the cost of living from the Office of National Statistics for the period 8 January to 2 February found: • 21% of adults said they had had to borrow more money or use more credit in the last month compared to a year ago. This is the same as the previously reported figure for December 2024, which was 25%. When broken down by age, the highest percentage of 28% was recorded for those between 30 to 49, while 10% of over 70s had to borrow more. 22% of females had to borrow or use credit more as opposed to 19% of males. • 56 % reported that costs of living had increased compared with one month ago, while 42% stated it had stayed the same and 2% said it had decreased. This again was consistent with the previously reported figure. Figures had shown a gradual decrease since October 2022 when 80% of adults reported an increase in living costs, however this figure has started to rise again from September 2024, with the figure being 52% at end September, 53% at end October and 56% in December 2024. More females (58%) reported that rise than males (54%). • For those who reported an increase, costs of food shopping at 89%, (3% less than December) energy bills at 79% (a 7% increase on December figures) and fuel at 48% (a 7% increase) were the most commonly reported reasons. 16% also reported an increase in rent or mortgage costs and 19% a public transport cost increase. The female and male figures for food costs were broadly consistent at 90% and 89% respectively. • Almost 4 in 10 people are spending less on food and essentials and 61% are spending less on non-essentials. 39% report using less fuel such as gas or electricity at home. For females, 41% are spending less on food and essentials and 63% on non-essentials, while for males the figures are 36% and 58%. • 28% have seen an increase in rent or mortgage costs in the last 6 months, and 34% are having difficulty meeting these costs. 5. Employment and Wages 5.1. According to the ONS, the Claimant Count in January 2025, which is taken from JobcentrePlus administration systems, for those claiming unemployment-related benefits in Renfrewshire is 3395 people – 2060 men and 1330 women aged between 16 and 64. This is a reduction from 3,670 in November 2024 and equals 2.9% of the population aged 16-64, a slight reduction on the previous 3% figure. The Scottish figure remains at 3.1% as in November. The Universal Credit rollout, however, affects this figure, which is expected to rise as individuals migrate to Universal Credit. 5.2. The national minimum wage and national living wage (for those aged 21 and over) will rise in April 2025, with the new rates detailed below. Page 3 of 44
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4 5.3. The increase in rates for those under 21 are part of a long-term plan to move towards an adult single rate of national living wage. 6. Benefits 6.1. Inflation-linked benefits and tax credits will rise by 1.7% from April 2025, in line with the Consumer Prices Index (CPI) rate of inflation in September 2024. The basic and new State Pensions will be uprated by 4.1% from April 2025, in line with the annual increase in the Average Weekly Earnings (AWE) index for May–July 2024. Universal Credit allowances in 2025/26 6.2. Due to the increase in line with CPI, in 2025/26 Universal Credit standard allowances will increase: • From £311.68 to £316.98 per month for single people aged under 25 • From £393.45 to £400.14 per month for single people aged 25 and over • From £489.23 to £497.55 per month for joint claimants both aged under 25 • From £617.60 to £628.10 per month for joint claimants both aged 25 and over 6.3. The Universal Credit childcare costs amount covers the equivalent of 85% of eligible childcare costs. The amounts do not have to be uprated annually but from April 2025 they will be increased in line with CPI inflation of 1.7%. The changes are as follows: • Maximum for one child: from £1,014.63 to £1,031.88 per month • Maximum for two or more children: from £1,739.37 to £1,768.94 per month Pension rates in 2025/26 6.4. The full pension rates for 2025/26 will be: • £230.25 per week for the new State Pension (for those reaching State Pension age on or after 6 April 2016) – up from £221.20 in 2024/25. • £176.45 per week for the basic State Pension (the core amount in the old State Pension system) – up from £169.50 in 2024/25. Page 4 of 44
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5 Other benefits 6.5. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is required to increase a range of disability and carers’ benefits each year, at least in line with inflation. These include Attendance Allowance, Disability Living Allowance, Personal Independence Payment, Carer’s Allowance, Severe Disablement Allowance, and Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit. 6.6. Each of these benefits is to be increased in 2025/26 broadly in line with the CPI inflation rate of 1.7%. During the Scottish Budget on 4 December, it was announced that equivalent Scottish benefits will also rise by 1.7%. 6.7. Child Benefit is administered by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC). There is no statutory requirement for Child Benefit to be increased, but the usual practice is to index it in line with inflation. In 2025/26, Child Benefit is will rise in line with CPI (+1.7%): • For the eldest child, it rises from £25.60 to £26.05 per week. • For each subsequent child, from £16.95 to £17.25 per week. 6.8. From January 2013, the High Income Child Benefit Charge (HIBC) recovered Child Benefit from families where the highest earner had a gross annual income above £50,000. For families where someone earned £60,000 or more, Child Benefit was completely withdrawn. From April 2024, the HIBC threshold was increased to £60,000 with Child Benefit being reduced for those with incomes from £60,000 to £80,000. Above £80,000, Child Benefit is completely withdrawn. 7. Inflation and Food Costs 7.1. Inflation is standing at 3% in January and has been above the target rate of 2% set by the UK Government for the Bank of England since October 24, when it reached 2.3%. The inflation rate for food has increased slightly from 3.3% January, overtaking overall inflation for the first time since September 2024. Page 5 of 44
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6 7.2. The Food Foundation’s food prices tracker was updated in January. They note that despite food inflation slowing over previous months, food prices still remain high, and this continues to have a significant impact on people struggling across the UK. Their ‘Basic Basket’ is a shopping basket tracker which measures weekly price changes in what the average man and woman could typically eat as part of a reasonably costed, adequately nutritious diet. 7.3. They have been tracking the cost of the Basic Basket, using prices in Tesco, since April 2022. Since then, the woman’s basket of food has increased in price by 27.3%, now costing £52.13 per week. The male basket has increased by 28.6% (non-clubcard price) and currently costs £55.98 per week. This illustrates how though we may see lower rates of inflation, the reality for many is that the cost of food remains high, and may get higher as, according to new modelling by the British Retail Consortium, food prices are forecast to increase by 4.2% on average in the latter half of 2025. 7.4. At the end of January, the Food Foundation published its ‘Broken Plate’ report, which looks at the trends impacting the UK's food system and the actions needed from policymakers in order to ensure everyone can afford healthy and sustainable food. This year's publication highlights that on average healthier foods are more than twice as expensive per calorie as less healthy foods, as defined by the government’s Nutrient Profile Model, averaging £8.80 per 1,000 kcal compared to £4.30 for less healthy foods with healthier food increasing in price at twice the rate in the past two years. 7.5. Furthermore, the report shows that a healthy diet is unaffordable for many people with low incomes. To afford the government-recommended healthy diet, the most deprived fifth of the population would need to spend 45% of their disposable income on food, rising to 70% for those households with children, while with the least deprived fifth of households only need to spend 11%. On average children consume less than half the recommended amount of fruit and veg but twice the recommended amount of sugar. Page 6 of 44
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7 7.6. Due to the timescales between the last sub-committee and this, there are no new Renfrewshire Foodbank figures to report, however anecdotal evidence from the Foodbank and community food providers indicates that demand for free/low-cost food is still high across Renfrewshire. 8. Interest Rates 8.1. On 6 February 2025, the interest rate was cut to 4.5% from 4.75%. This fall had been predicted by experts, and the Governor of the Bank of England stated that, ‘rates remain on a downward path’, however that this will have to be gradual and careful because of a predicted rise in inflation. 8.2. The Bank of England uses interest rates to try to keep inflation at 2% or less. With the inflation rate remaining above the Bank of England’s target, however, the Bank also predicted that higher energy and water bills would push up inflation "quite sharply" later this year, and warned there were a number of factors that could affect inflation including possible trade tariffs in the US. 8.3. Inflation is now expected to rise to 3.7% and take until the end of 2027 to fall back to its 2% target. 8.4. The interest rate cut means that for the 629,000 homeowners on mortgage tracker deals that move in line with the base rate, there will typically be a £29 fall in monthly repayments. There are nearly 700,000 people on standard variable rate (SVR) mortgages and most lenders have responded to the interest rate reduction by cutting their SVR rates, however some have not, and others have cut these by less than 0.25%. Those on a fixed mortgage deal will see no immediate change to their payments, but there might be cheaper deals available for new and renewing customers. Page 7 of 44
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8 9. Housing costs Rental Costs 9.1. According to the ONS, private rental prices in Renfrewshire rose to an average of £793 in January 2025, an increase of £16 per month on the last reported figure of £777 in November 2024 and an annual increase of 8.3% from £733 in January 2024. Average rents as of January 2025 in Renfrewshire/Inverclyde by how many bedrooms there are in a property were: • One bedroom: £499 (from £488 in November 24) • Two bedrooms: £663 (from £648 in November 24) • Three bedrooms: £858 (from £839 in November 24) • Four or more bedrooms: £1515 (from £1,497 in November 24) 9.2. Those renting their home from social landlords will also have higher rents to pay from April – Renfrewshire Council agreed an increase of 7.5% in rent for Council tenants on 27th February 2025. There are also a number of rent rises in place from April for other registered social landlords in Renfrewshire. Home ownership 9.3. In general, house prices have continued to rise and ONS figures show that the average cost of a home in Renfrewshire is now £156,000 in December 2024, up 10% from December 23, while the average price paid by first-time buyers was £127,000 in December 2024. This was 9.2% higher than the average of £116,000 in December 2023. For homes bought with a mortgage, the average house price was £171,000 in December 2024. This was 10.8% higher than the average of £154,000 in December 2023. 9.4. This is less than the Scottish figure, where the average house price in December 2024 was £189,000, up from £177,000 a year earlier. Page 8 of 44
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9 9.5. According to Adzuna, a recruitment agency, the average salary for jobs advertised in Renfrewshire in February 2025 was £33,570, down from £33,971 in November, however up 9% from this time last year. 9.6. For each property type, average prices as of December 2024 in Renfrewshire were: • Detached properties: £364,000 (up from £352,000 in October 24) • Semi-detached properties: £214,000 (up from £207,000 in October 24) • Terraced properties: £156,000 (up from £147,000 in October 24) • Flats and maisonettes: £101,000 (down from £103,000 in October 24) 9.7. Two major lenders recently offered mortgage deals with interest rates of less than 4%, however these are not available to all borrowers. Across the whole market the average rate on a two-year fixed deal is 5.48%. The typical rate on five-year deals is 5.29%, according to latest figures from Moneyfacts. 10. Fuel – Energy Costs for Households 10.1. Every three months, Ofgem reviews and sets a level on how much an energy supplier can charge for each unit of energy. This is known as the price cap. From 1 October to 31 December 2024, the price cap rose 10%, meaning an average household on typical usage, paying by Direct Debit for dual fuel was paying £1,717 a year, up £149 from the previous cap. The increase was across both unit costs and standing charges. This was followed by a 1.2% increase from 1 January to 30 March 2025, with a rise to £1,738 for the average household and now a further 6.4% rise from April 2025 to £1849. 10.2. The Ofgem cap is based on a "typical household" using 11,500 kWh of gas and 2,700 kWh of electricity a year with a single bill for gas and electricity, settled by direct debit. Those who pay their bills every three months by cash or cheque will pay more at approximately £1,969, while households on prepayment meters will pay slightly less than those on direct debit, with a typical bill of £1,803. This price, however, although lower than other payment methods, is a rise of £113 from the previous quarter. 10.3. All households pay standing charges for energy. This means that even were they to use no energy at all, there would still be a daily charge to cover the costs of being connected to a supply. The charge is typically 61p a day for electricity and 32p a day for gas, although they vary slightly by region. Under the energy price cap, standing charges have risen by 43% since 2019. 10.4. As previously reported, Ofgem has proposed that from winter energy firms must provide a choice of price-capped tariffs from winter 2025, one which has a standing charge and unit rate - as is the case now - and another with no standing charge but a higher unit rate. Recognising an issue, especially for low energy usage households with standing charges, this change would allow customers to choose which tariff would suit them best. 10.5. Ofgem are now consulting on this proposal, seeking views on the introduction of an option within the price cap that does not have a standing charge, as a way of addressing the market’s failure to offer a wider variety of products where consumers have expressed a Page 9 of 44
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10 strong demand. It is intended that this would be alongside the existing price cap options that include a standing charge. The consultation closes on 20 March 2025. 10.6. Ofgem has also set out its debt strategy which aims to tackle the growing impacts of rising debt in the energy system, and to create lasting change in the way debt is managed and customers in debt are supported. Between 12 December and 7 February they consulted on introducing a debt relief scheme for people who have got behind with their energy bills during the energy crisis and may struggle to repay. 10.7. If there is support from the consultation to go ahead with a debt relief scheme, Ofgem aim to publish a statutory consultation in spring 2025. Details of this will be reported to the Sub- Committee as they are known. Implications of the Report 1. Financial – There are no financial implications associated with this report, which provides an overview of the position and is for noting. 2. HR & Organisational Development – none 3. Community/Council Planning – This report provides a detailed summary of the current evidence relating to household income and expenditure. Wider poverty related issues are a key element of both the Council and Community Plan and the information included within this report is part of the wider Strategic Needs Assessment for these plans. 4. Legal - none 5. Property/Assets - none 6. Information Technology - none 7. Equality and Human Rights – The report provides an overview of the position around household income and expenditure, and is for noting. As such there are no impacts arising from the recommendation of this paper. It is however important to note that impacts on households explored within this paper are likely to be disproportionately felt by equality groups. 8. Health and Safety - none 9. Procurement – none 10. Risk – none 11. Privacy Impact – none 12. Climate Risk - none 13. Children’s rights – the articles within UNCRC underpin the work that is being progressed in Renfrewshire through the Fairer Renfrewshire programme, particularly in relation to rights in relation to aspects such as life, survival and development, food, clothing and a safe home and supporting the best interests of the child and their families. Child poverty and family wellbeing are key local partnership priorities. Page 10 of 44
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11 14. COSLA Policy Position – none Author: Diane Dunn, Fairer Renfrewshire Lead Officer, diane.dunn@renfrewshire.gov.uk Page 11 of 44
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Prepared by: Policy and Partnerships tacklingpoverty@renfrewshire.gov.uk Cost of Living Dashboard March 2025 Fairer Renfrewshire Item 1(b) Page 13 of 44
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Cost of Living Dashboard FAIRER RENFREWSHIRE This dashboard has been developed to provide a summary of key indicators relating to how local households might be impacted by the cost-of-living crisis It has four key sections: economy, social security, financial insecurity and housing Each section has an overview with key indicators and their movement from the last period, supported by additional information and graphs showing further analysis and longer-term trends The dashboard is still in development, and feedback is welcome on the information included and its presentation to ensure it is a useful tool Page 14 of 44
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Key statistics - economy OVERVIEW 4.50% 3.0% £19.52 139.11p 3.3% £1,849 • CPI Inflation and food inflation trend had been falling. Now starting to increase again. • Reduction in interest rates in February 2025 with further small cuts possible in 2025. • Energy price cap rising, with prepayment meters comparatively cheaper than direct debit. • Average hourly pay increasing, ahead of Scotland and GB average. Page 15 of 44
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Inflation The inflation rate inJanuary 2025 is 3.0%, up from 2.5% in December. The increase is not consistent across all categories and there are differing fluctuations. The increase in the CPI Rate for January 2025, was largely as a result of increases in transport and food and non-alcoholic beverage prices. The largest downward trend both came from housing and household services. Interest Rates The Bank of England’s base rate reduced to 4.50% in February 2025, having increased significantly over the last year, peaking at 5.25% from August 2023. Interest rate projections are difficult to predict, however many analysts are predicting modest decreases over the next two years. Analysts are now suggesting that the recent price volatility and future price pressures (e.g. fuel, energy, national insurance) could lead to an increase in inflation which may dampen the likelihood of the expected interest rate cuts. 0.00 1.00 2.00 3.00 4.00 5.00 6.00 Aug 2016 Aug 2018 Mar 2020 Feb 2022 May 2022 Aug 2022 Nov 2022 Feb 2023 May 2023 Aug 2023 Oct 2023 Dec 2023 Feb 2024 Apr 2024 Jun 2024 Sep 2024 Dec 2024 Bank of England Base Rate Changes -5.0 0.0 5.0 10.0 15.0 20.0 25.0 Jan-19 May-19 Sep-19 Jan-20 May-20 Sep-20 Jan-21 May-21 Sep-21 Jan-22 May-22 Sep-22 Jan-23 May-23 Sep-23 Jan-24 May-24 Sep-24 Jan-25 CPI Inflation Rates Food Inflation CPI Page 16 of 44
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Earnings Based on the ONS annual survey of hours and earnings, in 2024 the median hourly pay (excluding overtime) for workers in Renfrewshire is higher compared to that for workers in Scotland, and the rest of Great Britain. It should be noted that the median hourly wage for males in Renfrewshire is less than that for females, however when calculating median gross weekly pay females receive less earnings - £803.40 per week for males compared to £708.60 per week for females. Employment Rate The ONS Labour Force Survey shows the Claimant Count for those claiming benefits 'principally for the reason of being unemployed', which now stands at 3,395. This is based on numbers claiming JSA and Universal Credit. These numbers are based on those aged 16 and over. The Renfrewshire unemployment rate of 2.9 % is less than the Scotland rate (3.1%) and lower than that of Great Britain (4.1%). £19.52 £19.19 £18.73 £18.97 £19.50 £19.37 £19.53 £18.95 £17.92 £17.00 £17.50 £18.00 £18.50 £19.00 £19.50 £20.00 Renfrewshire Scotland Great Britain Full-time Workers Male Full-time workers Female Full-time workers 0 500 1,000 1,500 2,000 2,500 3,000 3,500 4,000 4,500 Claimant Count Page 17 of 44
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Economic Inactivity The ONS Labour Force Survey also provides details on those aged 16+ that are economically inactive and not seeking work. Between October 2023 to September 2024, of the 27,600 people aged 16-64 that are classed as economically inactive, 88.1% are not looking for employment (either in the long-term or short/medium term). The percentage of economically inactive people aged 16- 64 that want to gain employment (either in long-term or short/medium term) in Renfrewshire (11.9%) is lower than that of the rates in Scotland (16.4%) and Great Britain (18.1%). The Renfrewshire figure could be underestimated due to the sample size. Please note that due to the sample size within Renfrewshire, some categories do not have a reliable estimate (e.g. looking after family/home, temporary sick or other). Student 25% Long-Term Sick 30% Retired 27% Looking after family/home or Other 18% Economically Inactive Page 18 of 44
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Fuel Prices From the UK Government’s weekly fuel price publication, the average UK pump price on 3 March 2025 is 139.61 pence per litre for petrol, and 146.88 pence per litre for diesel. Energy Price Cap The Energy Price Cap sets a limit on the maximum amount suppliers can charge for each unit of gas and electricity used and sets a maximum daily standing charge. That means there is no upper limit to what a user pays, if more energy is used,more is paid. The Energy Price Cap now changes every three months mainly based on average energy wholesale prices in the months leading up to each change. From April 2025 the Energy Price Cap has risen to £1,849 per year for those on a monthly direct debit, and to £1,803 per year for those with a prepayment meter. The Energy Price Cap from July 2025 is predicted to fall very slightly. £0 £500 £1,000 £1,500 £2,000 £2,500 £3,000 £3,500 £4,000 £4,500 Direct Debit Prepayment Page 19 of 44
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Key statistics - social security OVERVIEW 17,118 10,615 5,286 4,624 • Households claiming Universal Credit increasing, this includes new cases and managed migration from tax credits and legacy benefits. • Slight increase in number of children receiving Scottish Child Payment compared to September 2024. Page 20 of 44
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Universal Credit Households on Universal Credit (UC) continue to rise with 17,118 households in Renfrewshire receiving UC as of November 2024 (provisional figures). Starting in August 2023, the managed migration from tax credits to UC contributed to the rises in the UC caseload, with the legacy tax credit caseload closing this year. From April 2024, the managed migration process has commenced for those claimants still on Income Support, Jobseeker’s Allowance, Housing Benefit and Employment and Support Allowance. July 2024 published DWP statistics show the impact of the two-child limit policy on families in receipt of UC or Child Tax Credits (CTC). As of April 2024, in Renfrewshire there are 1,200 households in receipt of UC/CTC with 3 or more children. Of these, 790 households are not receiving a child element/amount for at least one child. The current monthly UC child element amount is £287.92 per month. - 2,000 4,000 6,000 8,000 10,000 12,000 14,000 16,000 18,000 Jan-23 Feb-23 Mar-23 Apr-23 May-23 Jun-23 Jul-23 Aug-23 Sep-23 Oct-23 Nov-23 Dec-23 Jan-24 Feb-24 Mar-24 Apr-24 May-24 Jun-24 Jul-24 Aug-24 Sep-24 Oct-24 Nov-24 Number of Renfrewshire Households on UC Page 21 of 44
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Free School Meals and Clothing Grants The 2023/24 Free School Meals and Clothing Grant application process commenced in June 2023 and closed in April 2024. The 2024/25 Free School Meals and Clothing Grant application process commenced at the start of June 2024. The number of applications received since June 2024 is down compared to the corresponding period as last year. The number of children awarded a Free School Meal shows a drop of 103, however there is a drop of 542 children being awarded a Clothing Grant for the same period. This drop could be down to fluctuations in school rolls and eligibility. Large numbers of CTC claimants did not move to UC and therefore could lose eligibility. Please note, that there are applications that have been received, where a decision has not yet been made which makes in-year comparisons difficult. 0 2,000 4,000 6,000 8,000 10,000 2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 Period June to February Number of applications received Number of children applied Number of children awarded CG Number of children awarded FSM Page 22 of 44
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Key statistics - financial insecurity OVERVIEW 1,332 £1.1m 5,390 2,490 • Foodbank vouchers issued slightly up compared to last quarter, but a decrease compared to the same period last year. • Number of Crisis Grants applications received and awarded is down compared to the same period last year. • Number of people approaching local advice agencies down this period, but wider trend is upward Page 23 of 44
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More than 3 vouchers needed in the last 6 months In terms of more than 3 vouchers needed in the last 6 months there has been a steady decrease in overall cases, but steady increase in the number awarded due to a Benefit delay or sanction. There has been a quarterly decrease in low income being a specified reason, however these cases could be apportioned to another category. Foodbank Vouchers Foodbank vouchers issued in Q3 2024/25 (1,332) assisted 782 children and 1,705 adults. 973 979 12911243 1395 1009 1362 1632 1148 1295 14561368140013221332 0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200 1400 1600 1800 Foodbank Vouchers Issued by Quarter 0 100 200 300 400 500 600 700 Awaiting first benefit payment Benefit delay or sanction Debt Domestic abuse Drug or alcohol dependency Homelessness Long term health condition Long term unemployment No access to financial support due to… Other - low income Other Reason for needing more than 3 vouchers in the last 6 months (2024/25 Cumulative) Page 24 of 44
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Advice Advice Works and Renfrewshire Citizens Advice Bureau (RCAB) are supporting a high level of new clients. The number of clients who received appointment support during 2024/25 is only 16 less compared to the same period in 2023/24. N.B. These figures do not include the number of calls/emails from people looking for signposting information. Debt Under Management Advice Works and Renfrewshire Citizens Advice Bureau continue to deal with a high level of enquiries regarding debt. The combined level of new debt cases under management is shown below, by quarter over the last 3 years. By comparing the debt under management during Q2&Q3 2024/25 compared to Q2&Q3 2023/24, there is a 2.26% increase. Whilst it might be too early to make a definitive statement, the levels reported in Q1 could be an anomaly. - 500 1,000 1,500 2,000 2,500 3,000 3,500 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Combined Advice New Client Cases 2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 £0.00 £500,000.00 £1,000,000.00 £1,500,000.00 £2,000,000.00 £2,500,000.00 £3,000,000.00 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Debt Under Management 2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 Page 25 of 44
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Scottish Welfare Fund There have been 8,120 applications for Crisis Grants between April 2024 and February 2025 with £586,711 awarded. This is an average award rate of 66.4%. Nationwide, the main reasons for a CG not being awarded are “reasons for application do not meet the conditions of award” and “excluded as a result of previous applications”. Generally, awards are restricted to 3 within a 12-month rolling period however discretion can be used. In Renfrewshire, discretion isfrequently exercised. Cost-of-living pressures will for many households result in immediate financial crises more often with less flexibility to manage budgets. Nationwide 52% of Crisis Grant awards are made to single persons, with 22% made to single parents. This suggests single people and single parents, who rely on one income within the household, are financially struggling in terms of income and disproportionately by expenditure due to housing, energy, fuel, and food costs. 0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200 1400 Crisis Grant Applications by month Page 26 of 44
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Key statistics - housing OVERVIEW 16,0354,964 254 4,993 • New homeless cases marginally down in Q3 compared to Q2, but wider trend is upward. • No real change in the proportions of people reporting why they became homeless or where they are from. • More tenants in rent arrears this period, and a slight increase in the value of arrears compared to same period last year. Page 27 of 44
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Council Tenants in arrears As at the end of February 2025, 4,993 current tenants were in rent arrears totaling £2,809,573. This figure includes all levels of arrears some of which are caused by Universal Credit payment processes. Staff within Housing Services continue to work with tenants to address rent arrears and provide advice/signpost tenants to support services and agencies where financial difficulties are identified. For the period 1 April 2024 – 31 December 2024, 170 tenants have qualified for Tenant Support Fund assistance with £28,555 awarded. Renfrewshire Council tenancy rents will increase by 7.5% for 2025/26. Homeless Cases The Housing and Homeless Advice Service had 254 new cases within Q3 in 2024/25 compared to 227 for the same period in 2023/24. Homeless Services are predicting over 1,050 cases in 2024/25, with a significant increase in the number coming from the private sector. The current caseload of homeless applications is the highest recorded figure since 2022. The number of people in temporary accommodation is also reported to be at the highest figure ever seen, even at the height of Covid when housing supply was at a virtual standstill. 221 247 214 250264 261 227 274 244 283 254 0 50 100 150 200 250 300 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 New Homeless Cases 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 £0 £500,000 £1,000,000 £1,500,000 £2,000,000 £2,500,000 £3,000,000 £3,500,000 £4,000,000 Current Tenant Arrears 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 Page 28 of 44
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Housing CostsAverage Monthly Rent Costs From the Office for National Statistics’ local housing statistics publication dated February 2025, figures show average rent changes. These statistics are based predominantly on advertised rents, so do not represent rent changes for existing tenants. Local Housing Allowance (LHA) rates are the maximum amount that can be paid for Housing Benefit and Universal Credit (Housing Costs) for those renting from a private landlord. Any shortfall between charged rent and the amount of HB/UC Housing Costs awarded would have to be made up by the tenant, although Discretionary Housing Payments can be awarded to provide support. The 2025/26 rates have been frozen at the Jan. 2024 rate. Mortgage Affordability Average house prices for all property types continue to rise. The house prices combined with recent higher rates have driven up the average monthly mortgage repayment amounts. Whilst the Bank of England base interest rate fell in February 2025, it is expected that future rates will decline slowly and over a longer timescale to ensure inflation rates remain at levels consistent with the 2% target. Renfrewshire Monthly LHA Rates March 2025 LHA Rate April 2025 LHA Rate 1 Bedroom Shared £360 £360 1 Bedroom £400 £400 2 Bedroom £525 £525 3 Bedroom £600 £600 4 Bedroom £1,100 £1,100 Type of Property Average Price Average Monthly Mortgage Repayment (Assuming 25 year repayment, 5 year fixed initial agreement and 10% deposit Flat £101,000 £505.25 Terraced £156,000 £780.39 Semi-detached £214,000 £1,070.53 Detached £364,000 £1,820.91 Average Monthly Rents in Renfrewshire Jan-25 Annual Change in Average Rents 1 Bedroom £499 9.0% 2 Bedroom £663 8.7% 3 Bedroom £858 9.1% 4 or more Bedroom £1,515 7.1% Page 29 of 44
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1 ___________________________________________________________________ To: Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-Committee On: 26 March 2025 ___________________________________________________________________ Report by: Chief Executive ___________________________________________________________________ Heading: Fairer Renfrewshire Programme Update ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Summary 1.1. The Council and partners have a key focus on tackling inequality and improving wellbeing and have longstanding programmes of work and partnership arrangements in place such as the Tackling Poverty Programme and the change programme established in response to the findings of the Renfrewshire Drug and Alcohol Commission. 1.2. At Council on 2 March 2023 members reaffirmed their commitment to the Fairer Renfrewshire programme and outlined several investments including bringing together the current Fairer Renfrewshire funding alongside the Tackling Poverty and Social Renewal reserve funds into a single resource. 1.3. At Council on 27th February 2025, members further reaffirmed their commitment to the Fairer Renfrewshire programme with continued investments in a number of targeted interventions including additional welfare rights and schools advice funding, a targeted programme of summer activities for children and young people from low-income families, another year of the Winter Connections programme in 2025/26, and a further winter school clothing payment in 2025. 1.4. Work on priorities has continued throughout 2024/25, with this paper containing progress updates at Section 4. 2. Recommendations 2.1 It is recommended that members of the Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-Committee note the report. Item 2 Page 31 of 44
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2 3. Background 3.1 As highlighted in Section 1, the Fairer Renfrewshire Programme brings together a number of existing programmes of work focussed on achieving fairness and equity. The programme currently works to deliver against 4 key themes: · Improving financial security · Advancing equality of opportunity · Building community capacity and resilience · Listening to lived experience 4. Fairer Renfrewshire Programme Updates Winter Connections 2024/25 4.1 As was reported to Sub-Committee in November 2024, at Leadership Board in May 2024, it was agreed that £75,000 of funding be allocated from Fairer Renfrewshire programme to provide small grants to support a Winter Connections programme in partnership with local organisations. The programme aims to encourage people to connect and participate in activities in warm and welcoming spaces across communities in Renfrewshire and supports local community and voluntary organisations with the additional costs of making venues, activities and sessions open as part of the programme, such as equipment, food, energy costs, and rent. 4.2 Funded activities must fit the criteria of Winter Connections and be: • Open, free and easy to access • Inclusive, welcoming, respectful, and safe • Able or willing to provide connections to other services and supports • Able to offer warm drinks/snacks/food along with activities, where possible 4.3 The fund opened to applications on 23 September and was quickly over-subscribed. The fund was closed on 11 October to general applications after attracting 42 bids totalling £79,488. Where there were geographical gaps, further applications were invited, and all available funding was allocated by early December. The funding has also supported OneRen Libraries to continue to offer hot drinks and cup a soups, which are free to all, as well as free snacks for children at some of their Winter Connections programmed activities. 4.4 Most Winter Connections activities are now finished or finishing, with a small number of later starting activities continuing to April. Initial feedback from the programme has been positive, showing organisations involved in providing activities to have diverse users – including those with a learning disability, older men and women and women affected by domestic violence. All report that their sessions have been very well attended. 4.5 Providers have advised that those who come along value the sense of community, and projects speak about people looking forward to coming along, meeting others and taking part in activities. Jubilee House has noted that they have to gather as many chairs as possible from around the building to give people a seat. Page 32 of 44
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3 4.6 The projects report that Winter Connections funding allows them to offer communities the opportunity to meet up regularly in familiar, safe, spaces, where they feel welcomed, valued, and connected. 4.7 Feedback from libraries where we provided funding for hot drinks/cup a soups has also been positive. An increased footfall is recorded when they can offer hot drinks, and adults arranging to meet up and have a cup of tea in the library. 4.8 The evaluation of Winter Connections is now in progress, and this will be reported to the next Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-Committee. Funding for a further year of the Winter Connections programme in 2025/26 was agreed at the Council’s budget in February 2025, and next years programme will be informed by the learning from the evaluation. Pension Credit Uptake Campaign 4.9 As previous reported to Sub-Committee, officers have undertaken a programme of work alongside partners to increase uptake of Pension Credit, alongside any other eligible benefits specifically for older people. 4.10 DWP data on Pension Credit applications and awards was released in late February, but this data is only nationally and not at a local level. From this data, we can see there has been an 81% increase in applications and 64% increase in awards between July 2024 and February 2025. There are still a number of outstanding Pension Credit claims from this period, which means this is not the final position for this period. 4.11 Locally, between Advice Works and RCAB, 613 pension age households have been assisted with queries, income maximisation, benefit applications and debt/housing advice within Q3 of 2024/25. The client financial gain is over £1.1m from the advice and support provided, and this figure will be expected to rise as and when decisions are made on benefit claims. Further pop-up benefit take-up events are being arranged for April to be held in various locations across Renfrewshire. School Support and Family Advice Service 4.12 Between the 1st of August 2024 and the 5th of March 2025, the School Support Service assisted 92 clients. These clients made a combined 175 individual contacts. The most popular advice area was benefits, with the most common issues being Universal Credit and Adult Disability Payment. The second most popular advice area was housing, with clients seeking support regarding access to and provision of accommodation, including private sector rented properties. 4.13 The School Support Service during this period recorded financial gains for clients 54 clients totalling £195,403.34. Most financial gains were achieved from benefit entitlements including Adult Disability Payment, Child Disability Payment, and Universal Credit. 4.14 A notable trend in service use is that 25 of the 92 clients (over a quarter) identified as having caring responsibilities for a disabled child. By comparison, the Bureau’s overall figure for clients with disabled children during this period was 4.5%. Page 33 of 44
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4 4.15 Up until 7th of March 2025, for quarter 4 of 24/25, Advice Works received 48 referrals for their Family Advice Service and completed 80 cases. For the year, this is a total of 299 referrals and 372 cases closed. The majority of these clients have received a benefit check, with some adult disability payments applications, Scottish Child Payment and Free School Meals and School Clothing Grant applications. The majority of these referrals came from Health Visitor teams, with a number too from Social Work, Education and through self- referral. 4.16 Client Financial Gain for the year to date for Family Advice is £59,428.64, however even in cases where a client speaks to an adviser and there is no financial gain made, the client benefits from the reassurance of a benefit check and meeting with Advice Works opens discussion on all financial matters that may be worrying the client, such as debts and budgeting. 4.17 With regard to the Child Poverty Priority Groups, Advice Works have seen 255 families falling into those categories so far this year. CHILD POVERTY STATS Q1 Q2 Q3 1/1/25 to 7/3/25 TOTAL Lone Parent 30 24 12 14 80 Disabled Ad/child 15 15 9 8 47 3+ children 7 3 4 5 19 Minority ethnic 16 9 5 4 34 Child under 1 21 10 9 9 49 Parent under 25 8 9 3 6 26 TOTAL 97 70 42 46 255 4.18 Further promotion of the Family Advice service is being planned for early 2025, as part of a general promotion of support for families including School Support and the family Wellbeing service. Lived Experience Panel 4.19 Elected Members have been given a number of updates relating to work of the Fairer Renfrewshire Panel. From the end of October, for 5 weeks, the Fairer Renfrewshire Panel worked on a piece of commissioned work for Renfrewshire HSCP, where they considered the outcomes of the NHSGGC Public Health and Wellbeing Survey. The Panel are due to present their findings to a special meeting of Renfrewshire’s Community Planning Partnership Executive Group on 26th March. 4.20 As previously reported to elected members, in December, the Panel heard from HSCP around their planned work on Cost of the Nursery day, and agreed to be involved in developing and supporting this training which will take place in Early Learning Centres in February/March. A further session took place with HSCP on February around this topic, Page 34 of 44
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5 with the panel inputting to the training programme. The Panel are user testing aspects of the new Council Website with on 5 March and meeting with the Digital Strategy Delivery Manager on the 12th. STAR Project and a member of the Panel will both be part of a presentation to the Child Poverty Peer Support Network in Dundee on 18 March. This meeting has a focus on Lived experience, and Renfrewshire is one of the 4 local authorities reporting on their work in the area. In addition to the organised sessions to gather Panel input, the Panel took time in February to review their priorities and will report back to Council officers on these. Community Needs Assessment in Gallowhill 4.21 As previously reported to the sub-committee, late in 2023, Renfrewshire HSCP was successful in a funding bid to NHSGGC Public Health to carry out a Community Needs Assessment (CNA) in Gallowhill, recognising the concerning increase in Child Poverty rates in the Gallowhill and Renfrew South Ward. The CNA, being carried out by Active Communities, commenced at the start of July 2024 using the Place Standard Tool and 1,033 responses were submitted as part of this consultation. 124 of these were gathered through 1:1 interview in the community, with 262 full responses to all 14 questions and a further 771 partial submissions. 4.22 A report will be produced detailing the findings from the Community Needs Assessment, and it is expected that this will be launched later in March, while Active Communities will continue to work in the area and keep and expand the connections made with the Gallowhill community. 4.23 At Leadership Board on 4 December, £50,000 of Fairer Renfrewshire funding was allocated in grant funding to Active Communities to support the continuation of community development activity in Gallowhill following the publication of the Community Needs Assessment. This will provide capacity to support the development and implementation of actions emerging from the community needs assessment and continue to improve and expand community led activity and infrastructure in the area. Wider work will also be undertaken to develop a place-based approach based on the learning from the CNA. Fair Food Renfrewshire 4.24 The Fair Food Renfrewshire Steering Group, which met initially in September 2023, has continued to meet on a quarterly basis with the most recent meeting taking place in late November, where nutrition for young people was one of the areas of focus. 4.25 A six-month plan was approved in August by the Steering Group. The focus of the plan is on communications and marketing, re-establishing a Food Support network forum to discuss emergency and community food, and investigating the possibility of increasing access by local food producers to procurement frameworks. 4.26 Further to the establishment of the reformed Food Support Forum, a further meeting took place on 13 February. The meeting was attended by a number of organisations who run pantries and food larders as well as Renfrewshire Foodbank. Topics discussed included how the group can work together to avoid gaps and duplication in provision, ensuring culturally appropriate food is available, and creating meals with emergency mainly tinned provision from the Foodbank. Page 35 of 44
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6 4.27 The group highlighted an increased interest in growing food and increasing the availability of growing grounds and plots to support those who want to grow their own fruit and vegetables, and the positive impact this could have on health. Coordination of fresh food supply was discussed, with agreement made that surplus food which is coming to end of life from one group could be donated to another group which may be open the following day, for example. This would reduce food waste as well as support redistribution of fresh food. The group found coming together beneficial and agreed that regular meetings should be organised. 4.28 The next Fair Food Renfrewshire steering group meeting will take place on 21 March, where an update will be provided on the Good Food Nation work as well as the Food Support Forum. 4.29 Further to discussion at the Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-Committee in February, a separate update on the Good Food Nation (Scotland) Act and Fair Food Renfrewshire will be provided at the March Sub-Committee. Wider developments and next steps 4.30 Members are asked to note that work is underway to bring forward proposals for Fairer Renfrewshire programme funding to be allocated for 25/26 for approval by the Leadership Board in April 2025. Priorities for 2025/26 are presented for discussion with the Sub- committee as a separate item on this meeting agenda. Implications of the Report 1. Financial – There are no financial implications associated with this report. 2. HR & Organisational Development – none 3. Community/Council Planning – The Fairer Renfrewshire Programme is a key driver in achieving the ‘Fair’ strategic outcome and theme within the Council Plan, and covers a number of the key actions identified in the plan. It also represents a significant partnership programme of work which supports the ‘Fair’ theme within the Community Plan, with dedicated partnership governance being established to ensure alignment between these areas of work. 4. Legal - none 5. Property/Assets - none 6. Information Technology - none 7. Equality and Human Rights – Equality and human rights are a key pillar of this plan, and it is anticipated that the programme will likely advance equality of opportunity. 8. Health and Safety - none 9. Procurement – none 10. Risk – none Page 36 of 44
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7 11. Privacy Impact – none 12. Climate risk – none 13. Children’s rights - the articles within UNCRC underpin the work that is being progressed in Renfrewshire through the Fairer Renfrewshire programme, particularly in relation to rights in relation to aspects such as life, survival and development, food, clothing and a safe home and supporting the best interests of the child and their families. Child poverty and family wellbeing are key local partnership priorities. 14. COSLA Policy Position – none Author: Laura McIntyre, Head of Policy and Partnerships Page 37 of 44
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1 ___________________________________________________________________ To: Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-Committee On: 26 March 2025 ___________________________________________________________________ Report by: Chief Executive ___________________________________________________________________ Heading: Fairer Renfrewshire Programme – Priorities 25/26 ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Summary 1.1. This report provides an overview of the proposed 2025/26 Fairer Renfrewshire programme, which will be submitted to the Leadership Board in April 2025. Members are asked to consider the key priorities for officer/partnership focus during 2025/26 as outlined in Section 5 of this report. 2. Recommendations 2.1 It is recommended that members of the Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-Committee note the information provided in this report. 3. Background 3.1 As previously reported to the Sub-Committee the Fairer Renfrewshire Programme brings together a number of existing programmes of work focussed on achieving fairness and equity. A range of specific activities are being delivered against 4 key themes: · Improving financial security · Advancing equality of opportunity · Building community capacity and resilience · Listening to lived experience 3.2 Some of these activities are longer term in nature and have been progressed through the previous Tackling Poverty programme or through the pandemic or cost of living crisis, whilst others are new and have been brought forward by the Council and its partners in recognition of identified local need or opportunity e.g. Stronger Start service. Item 3 Page 39 of 44
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2 3.3 An overview of the current programme is provided within Appendix 1. £1.3m in funding remained available at mid-February to support the delivery of the programme going forward prior to budget decisions taken on 27 February 2025. 4 Programme priorities for 25/26 4.1 Officers have been developing a Fairer Renfrewshire programme for 2025/26, reviewing existing programmes of activity across 2024/25, and informed by discussions at the Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-Committee and relevant partnership groups. The proposed programme also reflects the specific commitments agreed as part of the approval of the Council’s budget on 27 March. At this meeting it was agreed that £0.450m of additional funding would be allocated to the Fairer Renfrewshire programme to support the following targeted interventions: • A targeted programme of summer activities for children and young people from low income families, working across Council services and with community groups and third sector organisations across Renfrewshire to ensure that our most vulnerable families are able to access a range of activities and healthy food over the summer period • Continuation of the £50 winter school clothing payment to each school child eligible for school clothing grant • Continuation of the successful Winter Connections Programme. 4.2 It was also agreed that £0.095m would be allocated from existing Fairer Renfrewshire funding to support the Welfare Rights Advocacy service and schools advice support delivered by Renfrewshire Citizens Advice Bureau. 4.3 It is proposed that an additional £0.585m of Fairer Renfrewshire programme funding is allocated to support the delivery of the programme in 2025/26. This includes provision for officer resource to deliver the programme and will allow the Programme to continue to deliver targeted support across communities in Renfrewshire in line with agreed priorities. 4.4 In addition it is proposed that the following priorities be progressed as additional areas of focus during 2025/26: • Continuing to explore place based approaches to supporting low income households informed by the learning from the community needs assessment in Gallowhill • Mapping the provision of money advice across Renfrewshire and linked forms of support such as energy advice in light of the cost of living crisis. It is proposed that this is further informed by survey and engagement work to assess ongoing impacts of the cost of living crisis on local households. • Exploration of opportunities and new developments relating to the provision of breakfast club supports across Renfrewshire and nationally to identify best practice and learning • Developing our local Fair Food Renfrewshire Partnership and co-ordinating our first Good Food Plan for Renfrewshire based on anticipated national guidance being launched in 2025. Page 40 of 44
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3 • Undertaking further analysis in relation to the increasing levels of diversity across Renfrewshire’s communities, with a particular focus on considering the supports available to New Scots in Renfrewshire such as ESOL. Renfrewshire Council is also due to develop and set new Equalities Outcomes in 2025, and an action plan in place to support the delivery of these outcomes. • Working with partners to publish our Local Child Poverty Action Report by end of June 2025. 4.5 As with previous years, it will be important for officers and partners to remain alert to emerging needs due to factors at a local and national level, and to respond flexibly to these as required over the course of the year within the officer/partners resources available. 4.6 A paper outlining the 25/26 programme proposals will be submitted to Leadership Board in April 2025 for formal approval. Members of the sub-committee are asked to consider the priorities and information contained in this report and provide feedback on the additional priorities at 4.4 as part of this process. Implications of the Report 1. Financial – There are no financial implications associated with this report, as the recommended funding will be met within existing funding allocated to the Fairer Renfrewshire programme. 2. HR & Organisational Development – none 3. Community/Council Planning – The Fairer Renfrewshire Programme is a key driver in achieving the ‘Fair’ strategic outcome and theme within the Council Plan, and covers a number of the key actions identified in the plan. It also represents a significant partnership programme of work which supports the ‘Fair’ theme within the Community Plan, with dedicated partnership governance being established to ensure alignment between these areas of work. 4. Legal - none 5. Property/Assets - none 6. Information Technology - none 7. Equality and Human Rights – Equality and human rights are a key pillar of this plan, and it is anticipated that the programme will likely advance equality of opportunity. 8. Health and Safety - none 9. Procurement – none 10. Risk – none 11. Privacy Impact – none 12. Climate risk – none Page 41 of 44
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4 13. Children’s rights - the articles within UNCRC underpin the work that is being progressed in Renfrewshire through the Fairer Renfrewshire programme, particularly in relation to rights in relation to aspects such as life, survival and development, food, clothing and a safe home and supporting the best interests of the child and their families. Child poverty and family wellbeing are key local partnership priorities. 14. COSLA Policy Position – none Author: Laura McIntyre, Head of Policy and Partnerships Page 42 of 44
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5 Appendix 1: Fairer Renfrewshire Work Programme 2024/25 Fairer Renfrewshire – Work Programme 24/25 Improving Financial Security Additional provision of dedicated welfare rights service contracted to RCAB Schools Support Service - Dedicated advice provided within all secondary school settings Family Advice – Dedicated advice provided to families with children, including primary schools, early years settings, and the Healthier Wealthier Children pathway working with expectant and new parents Energy Advocacy – Provision of one energy advocate as part of Council’s Energy Management Unit Winter school clothing top-up – Provision of further £50 top-up payment per child in receipt of School Clothing Grant Supporting health and wellbeing for low-income families with children Breakfast clubs – Provision of breakfast clubs in some schools Cost of the School Day fund – Discretionary fund distributed across all schools to mitigate the Cost of the School Day Peer Health programme – Training young people across secondary schools to because peer educators on a range of health and wellbeing topics Summer of Fun – A programme of activities and food for children and young people over the summer holidays Skoobmobile – Mobile library service promoting a love of reading and reading together for children Building community capacity and resilience Winter Connections – A programme of activities hosted by local groups that support people to connect to others within their community over the winter period Fair Food Renfrewshire – A partnership of organisations working together to ensure access to good food for all Renfrewshire Affordable Credit Alliance – A partnership of organisations working together to champion fair and honest finance Advice Partnership Renfrewshire – A partnership of organisations providing advice services across Renfrewshire Digital Inclusion – Provision of digital champions embedded within OneRen Advancing equality of opportunity Development of equalities workstream within Fairer Renfrewshire programme – under development Work to explore inequalities faced by older people in Renfrewshire and pilot preventative interventions, delivered by ROAR Developing understanding and insight Cost of Living Dashboard – Data and analysis to understand the impact of the cost-of-living crisis on local people and services Data Deep Dive – Detailed analysis to understand the nature and depth of child poverty locally, particularly for priority families and at locality level Renfrewshire Community Survey – A community survey to build understanding of impacts of the pandemic and cost of living crisis on individual households Gallowhill – Developing partnership, place-based approaches to tackling rising child poverty at neighbourhood level Fairer Renfrewshire Lived Experience Panel - Developing models of participation for people with lived experience of poverty to inform the Council’s policy and practice Page 43 of 44
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