Agenda Document Pack - Hamilton Area Committee - 15/05/2024
South Lanarkshire Council · 15 May 2024
Back to Hamilton Area Committee — 15 May 2024 and its agenda
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Council Offices, Almada Street Hamilton, ML3 0AA Wednesday, 01 May 2024 Dear Councillor Hamilton Area Committee The Members listed below are requested to attend a meeting of the above Committee to be held as follows:- Date: Wednesday, 15 May 2024 Time: 14:00 Venue: Hybrid - Committee Room 1, Council Offices, Almada Street, Hamilton, ML3 0AA The business to be considered at the meeting is listed overleaf. Yours sincerely Paul Manning Chief Executive Members Allan Falconer (Chair), Mo Razzaq (Depute Chair), Andy Carmichael, Maureen Chalmers, Ross Clark, Maureen Devlin, Colin Dewar, Mary Donnelly, Celine Handibode, Graeme Horne, Martin Hose, Cal Johnston-Dempsey, Gavin Keatt, Kenny McCreary, Lesley McDonald, Mark McGeever, Davie McLachlan, Richard Nelson, John Ross, Bert Thomson, Helen Toner 1
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BUSINESS 1 Declaration of Interests 2 Minutes of Previous Meeting Minutes of the meeting of the Hamilton Area Committee held on 28 February 2024 submitted for approval as a correct record. (Copy attached) 3 - 8 Item(s) for Noting 3 Scottish Fire and Rescue Service - 2023/2024 Annual Performance and Activity Report Presentation by T Keay, Group Commander and W Wilkinson, Station Commander, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service 4 Education Scotland Report - Newfield Primary School and Nursery Class Report dated 3 April 2024 by the Executive Director (Education Resources). (Copy attached) 9 - 14 5 Participatory Budgeting - Education Resources - Pupil Equity Funding Report dated 23 April 2024 by the Executive Director (Education Resources). (Copy attached) 15 - 18 Item(s) for Decision 6 Can Do Community Challenge Fund Applications Report dated 24 April 2024 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources). (Copy attached) 19 - 24 7 Playscheme Grant Applications 2024/2025 Report dated 29 April 2024 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources). (Copy attached) 25 - 26 8 Community Grant Applications Report dated 25 April 2024 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources). (Copy attached) 27 - 32 Urgent Business 9 Urgent Business Any other items of business which the Chair decides are urgent. For further information, please contact:- Clerk Name: Elizabeth-Anne McGonigle Clerk Telephone: 07385403101 Clerk Email: elizabeth-anne.mcgonigle@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 2
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HAMILTON AREA COMMITTEE Minutes of meeting held via Confero and in Committee Room 1, Council Offices, Almada Street, Hamilton on 28 February 2024 Chair: Councillor Allan Falconer Councillors Present: Councillor Andy Carmichael, Councillor Maureen Chalmers, Councillor Ross Clark, Councillor Maureen Devlin, Councillor Colin Dewar, Councillor Mary Donnelly, Councillor Graeme Horne, Councillor Martin Hose, Councillor Cal Johnston-Dempsey, Councillor Gavin Keatt, Councillor Kenny McCreary, Councillor Lesley McDonald, Councillor Davie McLachlan, Councillor Richard Nelson, Councillor Mo Razzaq (Depute), Councillor John Ross, Councillor Bert Thomson, Councillor Helen Toner Councillors' Apologies: Councillor Celine Handibode, Councillor Mark McGeever Attending: Education Resources I Gardiner, Headteacher, Dalserf Primary School; L Gardner, Quality Improvement Officer/Lead Officer; G Maguire, Quality Improvement/Lead Officer; G McLaughlin, Headteacher, St Mary’s Primary School, Larkhall; E Mitchell, Headteacher, St Ninian’s Primary School Finance and Corporate Resources S Jessup, Administration Assistant; E-A McGonigle, Administration Officer; L O’Hagan, Finance Manager (Strategy) Housing and Technical Resources D Duncan, Area Housing Manager; C Frew, Strategy Co-ordinator Social Work Resources E Lloyd, Fieldwork Manager (Justice Services) 1 Declaration of Interests No interests were declared. 2 Minutes of Previous Meeting The minutes of the meeting of the Hamilton Area Committee held on 29 November 2023 were submitted for approval as a correct record. The Committee decided: that the minutes be approved as a correct record. 3 Education Scotland – Dalserf Primary School, Ashgill, Larkhall A report dated 31 January 2024 by the Executive Director (Education Resources) was submitted on the outcome of the inspection of Dalserf Primary School, Ashgill, Larkhall made by Education Scotland. The inspection had taken place in October 2023 as part of a national sample of primary education and the inspection letter reporting on the findings had been published on 19 December 2023. 2 3
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A number of particular strengths of the school had been highlighted in the inspection letter. The areas for improvement, agreed with the school and education authority, had been incorporated into the school’s improvement plan and parents would be informed of progress. L Gardner, Quality Link Officer and I Gardiner, Headteacher, having spoken on key aspects of the report, were congratulated on the positive inspection report. The Committee decided: that the report be noted. Councillors Keatt and Nelson entered the meeting during consideration of the above item of business 4 Education Scotland – St Ninian’s Primary School, Hamilton A report dated 31 January 2024 by the Executive Director (Education Resources) was submitted on the outcome of the inspection of St Ninian’s Primary School, Hamilton made by Education Scotland. The inspection had taken place in October 2023 as part of a national sample of primary education and the inspection letter reporting on the findings had been published on 21 November 2023. A number of particular strengths of the school had been highlighted in the inspection letter. The areas for improvement, agreed with the school and education authority, had been incorporated into the school’s improvement plan and parents would be informed of progress. G Maguire, Quality Link Officer and E Mitchell, Headteacher, having spoken on key aspects of the report, were congratulated on the positive inspection report. The Committee decided: that the report be noted. Councillor Ross entered the meeting during, and Councillor Nelson left the meeting after, consideration of the above item of business 5 Education Scotland – St Mary’s Primary School, Larkhall A report dated 1 February 2024 by the Executive Director (Education Resources) was submitted on the outcome of the inspection of St Mary’s Primary School, Larkhall made by Education Scotland. The inspection had taken place in June 2023 as part of a national sample of primary education and the inspection letter reporting on the findings had been published on 12 September 2023. A number of particular strengths of the school had been highlighted in the inspection letter. The areas for improvement, agreed with the school and education authority, had been incorporated into the school’s improvement plan and parents would be informed of progress. L Gardner, Quality Link Officer and G McLaughlin, Headteacher, having spoken on key aspects of the report, were congratulated on the positive inspection report. The Committee decided: that the report be noted. 4
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6 Common Good Update A report dated 31 January 2024 by the Head of Finance (Strategy) was submitted providing an update on the Hamilton Common Good Fund. Common Good comprised a fund of money or assets, or both, which was administered by a Scottish local authority in respect of each former burgh within the local authority area. Common Good property was owned by the local authority and administered separately from other local authority assets for accounting purposes. The Common Good funds held within South Lanarkshire Council were Lanark, Biggar, Hamilton and Rutherglen. The Common Good fund in Hamilton held a number of properties and a proactive approach to maintenance supported the viability of those assets and reduced the Council’s risk to greater liability in the future. On 2 October 2013, the Finance and Corporate Resources Committee approved an annual cyclical maintenance plan of £15,000 for Hamilton Common Good properties and the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) had delegated authority to approve maintenance expenditure up to that amount for all funds. Finance Services administered the Common Good accounts, which included revenue monitoring, preparation of annual accounts and, when required, to seek approval from the Finance and Corporate Resources Committee for expenditure to be incurred on various projects. Reports on the management of the Common Good funds would be provided annually to appropriate Area Committees. Decisions on the Common Good Accounts were taken by the Finance and Corporate Resources Committee. A report on the management of the Common Good fund would also be provided annually to the Hamilton Area Committee. The audited annual accounts for 2022/2023 were detailed at Appendix 1 to the report. As at 31 March 2023, the balance invested in the Council’s Loans Fund for Hamilton was £477,000. As well as cash balances, the Hamilton Common Good Account also held assets, as detailed in Appendix 2 to the report. Details were provided on repairs and maintenance incurred during 2022/2023 and the commitments for repairs and planned maintenance in 2023/2024. There were currently no consultations on Common Good assets. The Finance Manager (Strategy) responded to members’ questions on various aspects of the report and, where information was not readily available, undertook to provide that to members. The Committee decided: that the report be noted. [Reference: Minutes of 9 November 2022 (Paragraph 3)] 7 Participatory Budgeting – Housing and Technical Resources A report dated 12 February 2024 by the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) was submitted on Participatory Budgeting (PB) in relation to the Estate Improvement Budget and the Housing Investment Programme (HIP) Environmental Programme. The Estate Improvement Budget totalled £40,000 and was split across the 4 housing divisions of South Lanarkshire. Each Local Housing Management Team could direct funding towards projects or improvements highlighted as a priority by customers of Housing and Property Services. Although not a significant value, the budget was ideally suited for conversion to PB and funded a number of smaller projects that had been highlighted as a priority by customers. 5
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To date, a total of £9,262 had been spent from the Estate Improvement Budget for 2023/2024 on 5 projects that had been undertaken within the Hamilton area, as detailed in the report. Engagement with tenants on the overall Housing Revenue Account budget for 2023/2024, and the proposed level and focus of the Housing Investment Programme (HIP) within this, had taken place as part of the Annual Resource 2023/2024 budgetary consultation process. The environmental aspect of the HIP (Environmental Programme) was a significant budget area that covered a wide range of projects that sought to improve the quality and energy efficiency of the Council’s domestic housing stock. To date, the following 3 PB projects had commenced in the Hamilton division:- provision of additional parking at Rorison Place, Ashgill installation of perimeter fencing and CCTV upgrades at the Shawlands Crescent Gypsy/Traveller site delivery of internal upgrades at the Lorne Street sheltered housing site in Hamilton Officers from Housing and Technical Resources would continue to take forward opportunities within Hamilton to ensure tenants and other customers had the opportunity to determine the outcome of budgets within the Environmental Programme and Community Safety Partnership Commissioning budget, with further updates provided to this Committee in due course. Officers responded to members’ questions on various aspects of the report and members expressed their thanks to the team. The Committee decided: that the report be noted. [Reference: Minutes of 8 February 2023 (Paragraph 5)] 8 Community Payback Order E Lloyd, Fieldwork Manager (Justice Services) gave a presentation on Community Payback Orders (CPO), the most common requirement of which involved unpaid work for the benefit of the community. Details were given on:- general requirements and objectives of CPOs the type of work carried out in relation to CPOs within South Lanarkshire, including community, resource centre based, remote and partnership projects the Unpaid Work Service, based within the Auchentibber resource centre, Blantyre delivery of work and activities both in terms of hours and bespoke projects delivered support offered to individuals who had received a CPO specific projects delivered in the Hamilton area Having responded to members’ questions on various aspects of the presentation, the Fieldwork Manager (Justice Services) was thanked for his presentation. In response to a member’s request for clarification in relation to the uplift of garden waste for unpaid work projects, it was agreed that the Chair, on behalf of the Committee, would write to the Executive Director (Community and Enterprise Resources) asking for an update on the position. 6
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The Committee decided: (1) that the presentation be noted; and (2) that it be noted that the Chair, on behalf of the Committee, would write to the Executive Director (Community and Enterprise Resources) requesting an update on the position regarding uplift of garden waste for unpaid work projects. Councillors Hose, Keatt, McCreary and Thomson left the meeting during consideration of the above item of business 9 Community Grant Applications A report dated 8 February 2024 by the Chief Executive was submitted:- ♦ on applications for community grant ♦ requesting authorisation for the Chief Executive, in consultation with the Chair, to approve further community grant applications meeting the relevant criteria in the period to 31 March 2024 from the 2023/2024 budget In view of the fact that this was the last meeting of the Committee in the current financial year and to allow best use to be made of the remaining 2023/2024 community grant budget, it was proposed that the Chief Executive, in consultation with the Chair, be authorised to approve any further community grant applications meeting the relevant criteria in the period to 31 March 2024. Those grants awarded would be reported to a future meeting for noting. There followed a discussion during which members debated the amounts that should be allocated to the community grants. Following the discussion, Councillor Falconer, seconded by Councillor McLachlan, moved that the recommendations for community grants (a) to (h), as detailed at section 2.1 of the report, be approved. Councillor Clark, seconded by Councillor Johnston-Dempsey, moved as an amendment that the full eligible amounts for community grants (a) to (h) be approved. On a vote being taken using the electronic voting system, 5 members voted for the motion and 8 for the amendment which was declared carried. In response to a member’s question in relation to what would happen to the money left over from the 2023/2024 community grant budget, the Administration Officer undertook to provide this information to members. The Committee decided: (1) that community grants be awarded as follows:- (a) Applicant: Fife Court Tenants Association, Bothwell (HA/31/23) Purpose of Grant: Start-up costs Amount Awarded: £999 (b) Applicant: Woza Theatre Group, Blantyre (HA/32/23) Purpose of Grant: Start-up costs Amount Awarded: £400 (c) Applicant: Dalserf Village Garden Club, Larkhall (HA/33/23) Purpose of Grant: Environmental Project Amount Awarded: £350 (d) Applicant: Hamilton Ramblers Club, (HA/34/23) Purpose of Grant: Outing 7
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Amount Awarded: £400 (e) Applicant: Larkhall Probus Club (HA/35/23) Purpose of Grant: Outing, entrance fees, administration and publicity costs Amount Awarded: £450 (f) Applicant: Trinity Church Guild, Larkhall (HA/36/23) Purpose of Grant: Outing and entrance fees Amount Awarded: £400 (g) Applicant: Cadzow Community Corps, Hamilton (HA/37/23) Purpose of Grant: Environmental project Amount Awarded: £704 (h) Applicant: The Monday Club, (Hamilton Old Parish Church) (HA/38/23) Purpose of Grant: Outing and entrance fees Amount Awarded: £400 (2) that, to ensure that the remaining 2023/2024 community grant budget was utilised as fully as possible, the Chief Executive, in consultation with the Chair, be authorised to approve community grant applications in the period to 31 March 2024, subject to the applications meeting the Council’s criteria for the receipt of funding; and (3) that the details of those applications approved be reported to a future meeting for noting. [Reference: Minutes of 15 November 2023 (Paragraph 4)] 10 Urgent Business There were no items of urgent business. 8
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Hamilton Area Committee Date of Meeting: 15 May 2024 Report by: Executive Director (Education Resources) Subject: Education Scotland Report - Newfield Primary School and Nursery Class 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- [purpose] advise of the outcome of the inspection of Newfield Primary School and Nursery Class by Education Scotland inspectors 1purpose] 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- [recs] (1) that the Education Scotland report on Newfield Primary School and Nursery Class be noted. [1recs] 3. Background 3.1. Newfield Primary School and Nursery Class were inspected in December 2023 as part of a national sample of primary education. 3.2. As part of the revised approach to inspection, the Education Scotland inspectors evaluated the learning, teaching and assessment and raising attainment and achievement of the school and learning, teaching and assessment and securing children’s progress of the nursery. 3.3. The inspection team analysed questionnaires issued to parents, pupils and to all staff. Inspectors observed class lessons and interviewed groups of pupils, including the pupil council, and staff. Members of the inspection team also met parents and members of the local community. 3.4. The report by Education Scotland was published on 27 February 2024. 4. Finding of HM inspectors 4.1. Education Scotland made comment under the following headings: Learning, teaching, and assessment and Raising attainment and achievement in the school. Learning, teaching and assessment and Securing children’s progress in the nursery. 4 9
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4.2. The particular strengths of the school and the nursery class were identified as follows:- The supportive, nurturing relationships between staff and children across the school and nursery. This creates a strong sense of community that is based on mutual respect and high aspirations. The consistent, high-quality learning and teaching across the school and nursery. Staff’s effective use of data across the school and nursery. This ensures that the staff team have a clear understanding of children’s progress, potential barriers to learning and next steps. The successful approach to extending children’s skills through their involvement in leadership groups within the school. Children are extremely proud of the contribution they make to improving their school. The richly resourced indoor and outdoor play environment within the nursery. 4.3. Education Scotland identified the following areas for continued improvement:- As planned, develop further approaches to play-based learning and outdoor learning in the school. In the nursery, practitioners should continue to take forward the identified priorities, including literacy and numeracy through play. Review approaches to long-term planning in the school to better inform the effectiveness and application of learning across different curriculum areas. Continue to raise attainment in literacy and numeracy. 4.4. As well as welcoming the strengths of the school, it should be noted that the areas for continued improvement are already being incorporated into the school’s improvement planning. 4.5. Education Scotland have intimated that they are confident that the school will be able to take forward the areas for improvement and will make no more visits in connection with this report. The school are in a strong position to be able to raise levels of attainment with a particular focus on closing the poverty related attainment gap. 4.6 Additional inspection evidence can be accessed by clicking the following web link:- Newfield Primary School and Nursery Class, South Lanarkshire, 27/2/24 (education.gov.scotland) 5. Employee Implications 5.1. None 6. Financial Implications 6.1. None 7. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 7.1. None 8. Other Implications 8.1. There are no direct risks associated with this report which is provided for information only. 9. Equality Impact Assessment and Consultation Arrangements 9.1. There is no requirement to carry out an assessment in terms of the proposals contained within this report. 10
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9.2. The content of Education Scotland reports is shared with parents and discussed at Parent Council meetings. Carole McKenzie Executive Director (Education Resources) 3 April 2024 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes inspiring learners, transforming learning, strengthening partnerships. Previous References None List of Background Papers Education Scotland Report of Newfield Primary and Nursery Class 27 February 2024 Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please. contact-: Stewart Nicolson, Head of Education (Hamiton) Ext : 4475 Tel: 01698 454475 E-mail: Stewart.Nicolson@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 11
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1 | Newfield Primary School and Nursery Class, South Lanarkshire Council, 8526222 © Crown Copyright 27 February 2024 Dear Parent/Carer In December 2023, a team of inspectors from Education Scotland visited Newfield Primary School and Nursery Class. During our visit, we talked to parents/carers and children and worked closely with the headteacher and staff. The inspection team found the following strengths in the school’s work. • The supportive, nurturing relationships between staff and children across the school and nursery. This creates a strong sense of community that is based on mutual respect and high aspirations. • The consistent, high-quality learning and teaching across the school and nursery. • Staff’s effective use of data across the school and nursery. This ensures that the staff team have a clear understanding of children’s progress, potential barriers to learning and next steps. • The successful approach to extending children’s skills through their involvement in leadership groups within the school. Children are extremely proud of the contribution they make to improving their school. • The richly resourced indoor and outdoor play environment within the nursery. The following areas for improvement were identified and discussed with the headteacher and a representative from South Lanarkshire Council. • As planned, develop further approaches to play-based learning and outdoor learning in the school. In the nursery, practitioners should continue to take forward the identified priorities, including literacy and numeracy through play. • Review approaches to long-term planning in the school to better inform the effectiveness and application of learning across different curriculum areas. • Continue to raise attainment in literacy and numeracy. 4 13
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2 | Newfield Primary School and Nursery Class, South Lanarkshire Council, 8526222 © Crown Copyright We gathered evidence to enable us to evaluate the school’s work using quality indicators from How good is our school? (4th edition) and How good is our early learning and childcare?. Quality indicators help schools, local authorities and inspectors to judge what is working well and what needs to be improved. Following the inspection of each school, the Scottish Government gathers details of our evaluations to keep track of how well Scottish schools are doing. Here are Education Scotland’s evaluations for Newfield Primary School and Nursery Class Quality indicators for the primary school Evaluation Learning, teaching and assessment very good Raising attainment and achievement good Descriptions of the evaluations are available from: How good is our school? (4th edition), Appendix 3: The six-point scale Quality indicators for the nursery class Evaluation Learning, teaching and assessment very good Securing children’s progress very good Descriptions of the evaluations are available from: How good is our early learning and childcare? Appendix 1: The six-point scale A more detailed document called Summarised Inspection Findings (SIF) will be available on the Education Scotland website at: Details | Find an inspection report | Find an inspection report | Inspection and Review | Education Scotland What happens next? We are confident that the school has the capacity to continue to improve and so we will make no more visits in connection with this inspection. South Lanarkshire Council will inform parents/carers about the school’s progress as part of its arrangements for reporting on the quality of its schools. Pamela Adamson HM Inspector 14
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Participatory Budgeting – Update for Hamilton Area Committee May 2024 Service Area Education Lead Officer Maureen Farr Stage 1 : Pre Consultation: • What are we asking the public for their view on (what service is it / description etc)? • How much funding are we asking about? • Who are we asking, • How are we doing this ? • When are we doing this ? • When will we report back ? Progress update since last Area Committee Case Study Following the consultation and voting process as reported at the last Area Committee, schools have progressed with their spend, to ensure the minimum 5% is spent in full by the end of March 2024. We are pleased to share Neilsland Primary School’s participatory budgeting work as an example of good practice (Appendix 1) within the Hamilton area. This case study illustrates the school’s PB journey this session. Neilsland Primary is a school committed to Equity and reducing the Cost of the School Day and have embraced the Participatory Budgeting (PB) process as a way of enhancing both. They are very clear in the knowledge that having a school where pupils feel safe, welcome and happy means that attendance and, therefore, attainment will be high. Their results this session bear this out. The choices gathered from their PB Group and put out to vote were:- 1. purchase of 5 chrome books 2. stationery Stations for each classroom 3. all of the above The overwhelming choice from the vote was choice 3 – to get the chrome books and the Stationery Stations and their fund of £3,430 enabled them to do that. Through the results of their PB work, Neilsland Primary aimed to increase engagement levels of targeted pupils and increase their punctuality and attendance. As can be seen in the information below, they have experienced success in these ambitious aims and should be commended especially as the school is in an area of high deprivation where almost all classes have a majority of children from SIMD 1 and 2 and/or entitled to free school meals. Results of Engagement Levels of targeted pupils (February 2024) 93.6% of targeted pupils score 4 or more in relation to the Leuven Scale of Engagement for Reading. (4.2% increase from June 2023) 90.4% of targeted pupils score 4 or more in relation to the Leuven Scale of Engagement for Writing. (1.0% increase from June 2023) 94.2% of targeted pupils score 4 or more in relation to the Leuven Scale of Engagement for Numeracy. (4.8% increase from June 2023) Punctuality The number of children late for school has decreased gradually from 13% in February 2023 to 9% in February 2024 (decrease 4%) 5 15
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Attendance Next Steps PB is now fully embedded in SLC schools through the Pupil Equity Funding (PEF). Schools continue to allocate a minimum of 5% of their Pupil Equity Funding to be subject to PB year on year. Optional PB training is planned for August for schools who have new PB Leads or need a refresh. Stage 2 : Post Consultation • The outcome of the PB activity • What happens next ? • Further reporting requirements (eg required Committee approval) Following the voting, Education Resources will provide Area Committees with the following:- - Summary Report of each school’s PB outcome (available late October/early November 2024) and Local Authority and Area analysis report of this - Case studies of school activity, which has had particular impact/success (ongoing throughout the year) Education Resources will continue to support schools with implementation of this and monitor and track the impact of this activity. Findings will inform any future PB activity within Education Resources. Regular PB Updates and the highlighting of good practice will be communicated to schools via the Equity Hub and through our @SLCEquity Twitter handle. 16
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Appendix 1 17
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Hamilton Area Committee Date of Meeting: 15 May 2024 Report by: Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) Subject: Can Do Community Challenge Fund Applications 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- [purpose] advise the Area Committee members of Can Do Community Challenge Fund applications in 2023/2024 provide details of the funding to approve across local community groups [1purpose] 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation:- [recs] (1) that the Can Do Community Challenge Fund applications be approved as set out in Appendix 1 of this report. 3. Background 3.1. The ‘Can Do Community Fund’ is a one-year Investment fund from South Lanarkshire Council for local communities that do not have access to Participatory Budgeting (PB) funds. This funding aims to address specific needs, and targets projects identified through consultation and engagement with local communities. Monies are not available in areas where a Neighbourhood Plan and associated PB funding is in place. 3.2. Community organisations, including Community Councils, had the opportunity to apply for grants of up to £10,000 to tackle identified issues within their areas, whether they require revenue, capital funding or a combination of both. The fund had a £200,000 limit for the whole of South Lanarkshire and was promoted during Community Meetings, online and in the South Lanarkshire View. 3.3. Scoring of applications was conducted by a panel within the Council’s Community Engagement Team that assessed each application based on their impact on Connect Council Plan Community and Environment priorities https://www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk/downloads/file/15715/connect_council_plan_20 22-27_pdf. Amongst the other factors taken into consideration by scoring panel members were reach of activity and the depth of community engagement in project ideas. Scoring Criteria are available at Appendix 2. 3.4. To ensure community organisations across all eligible localities had an equitable chance to complete the online application process, all applications were scored together after the closing date of the fund on 31 January 2024. 6 19
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4. Application Approval 4.1. Area Committee members are asked to approve the list of applications in Appendix 1 A range of methods will be used to capture feedback from successful applicants and those organisations which did not meet the criteria were provided with alternative funding options and capacity building support from Neighbourhood Development Officers and other Community Engagement Team members. 4.2. Further information on the applications is available to members on request. 5. Employee Implications 5.1. There are no employee implications associated with this report. 6. Financial Implications 6.1. The current position on Can Do Community Challenge Fund is as follows: Total funding available: £200,000.00 Expressions of interest: £316,721 Funding approved: £200,000 Value of declined applications: £47,782 Value of ineligible or withdrawn applications: £68,939 7. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 7.1. There are no implications for climate change, sustainability or the environment in terms of the information contained in this report. 8. Other Implications 7.1. There are no risks associated with the content of this report. 9. Equality Impact Assessment and Consultation Arrangements 9.1. There are no Equality Impact Assessment or Consultation implications associated with this report. Jackie Taylor Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) 24 April 2024 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Values Focused on people and their needs Working with and respecting others Accountable, effective, efficient, and transparent Ambitious, self-aware, and improving Fair, open and sustainable Priorities We will work to put people first and reduce inequality We will work towards a sustainable future in sustainable places We will work to recover, progress, and improve Outcomes Good quality, suitable and sustainable places to live Thriving business, fair jobs and vibrant town centres Caring, connected, sustainable communities 20
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People live the healthiest lives possible Previous References None List of Background Papers None Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact:- Jen Kerr, Community Engagement Manager Email: Jennifer.Kerr1@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 21
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Appendix 1 Can do Community Challenge Fund 2023/2024 Hamilton Area Awards EID No Applicant Amount requested Purpose of Grant Amount awarded 2144 Larkhall Community Growers £4,835.00 Save Money Be Healthy – healthy eating and family nutrition advice using a community garden £4,835.00 2176 Larkhall District Volunteer Group £10,000.00 Community Vehicle to support Health visits £10,000.00 2212 Bothwell Futures £10,000.00 Community led business plan support for Wooddean Park £10,000.00 2139 Church at the Cross £10,000.00 Expansion of Hareleeshill Community Hub activities £8,028.00 2228 Low Waters Community Group £10,000.00 Building repairs to restore Community facility (CAT link) £10,000.00 2200 Larkhall Community Growers KS £10,000.00 King Street Community Space design phase £10,000.00 2191 Eddlewood FC £7,702.03* Community Sports Hub legal fees and other costs *split payment as £2043.70 Kitchen Upgrade. All subject to CAT decision due 31st March £7,702.03 2172 MorphFit £10,000.00 Community Wellbeing and Mental Health activities £9,240.09 Hamilton Area Total £69,805.12 There were no eligible, unsuccessful applications for this area. 22
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APPENDIX 2 Criteria and Scoring Matrix for the Can Do Community Challenge Fund Purpose The purpose of this scoring matrix is to help assess eligible applications for Can Do Community Challenge Fund monies. The format reflects Connect Council Plan Priorities and further details are available under the Communities and Environment section at the link below: https://www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk/downloads/file/15715/connect_council_plan_202 2-27_pd Council Plan Community Priorities • Link of activity with Caring, Connected and Sustainable Community themes. • Project is responding to Community Feedback or an identified need. • Encouragement of collaborative working across different community groups. • Reduces Inequality through open access to participation or benefits of the project’s activity. • Promotes Community Ownership or Co-Production • Reduces Digital Exclusion • Project design reflects active participation of diverse groups within the Community. • Reduces Social Isolation • Circular Economy and Recycling • Environmental Improvements • Creation of Safe Community Spaces • Encourage participation in physical and cultural activities. • Improves the life chances of children and young people Criteria Organisations must demonstrate how they promote the Caring, Connected, Sustainable themes and how the application reflects the Council’s key priorities reflected in the attached Community Benefits guide. Applicants will have to demonstrate positive impacts on improving the quality of life for residents. Criteria Scoring Range Alignment with Council Priorities How do the services or activities which will be supported by Can Do Community Challenge Funding align with Council priorities as detailed in the Community Benefits guidance? One point for each objective that the project can be aligned to. To be considered all applicants must identify at least 1 Council priority in their submission. Those addressing multiple priorities will be scored higher during appraisals. 0 – 12 1 point for each Priority Met Community Engagement and Leadership Assessment Panel Members are asked to rate on a scale of 0-10 (10 0 – 10 23
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being very strong proposals and 0 being no supporting evidence) which applications demonstrate a clear process of Community Engagement and Consultation in the design stage of the application. Evidence can include Consultations, letters of support, research, community meeting reports and surveys. Reach How does this intervention help bring diverse groups within the Community together? Is participation open to all? Will the Community Benefits it will generate, assist wider groups across Equalities protected characteristics? 0 – 10 Locality Knowledge/ Governance Has the applicant demonstrated a depth of knowledge on community issues and evidenced this, in terms of previous learning, consultancy work or research? What governance structures are built into the proposal- how will results be captured and shared with the community? In short does the applicant have a previous track record of delivery in this community? 0 – 10 Exit Strategy/ Sustainability How the project will be sustainable in the longer term? Capturing learning to inform further Community collaborations or external funding applications? Legacy in terms of positive impacts to the local environment? 0 – 10 Innovation/Added Value How do application ideas represent new thinking for this community? What elements of the project are replicable or could be scaled up? How will learning benefit the community long-term? 0 – 10 Total application score is from assessment (out of 50) + Alignment with Council Priorities score. Applicants must meet 50% minimum score and must have a score in community engagement. 24
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Hamilton Area Committee Date of Meeting: 15 May 2024 Report by: Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) Subject: Playscheme Grant Applications 2024/2025 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- [purpose] request approval for the allocation of the following playscheme grants in the Hamilton area for 2024/2025 [1purpose] 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- [recs] (1) that playscheme grants be awarded as follows:- (a) Applicant: Childcare in the Community, Hamilton (PS/HA/1/24) Amount Awarded: £440 (b) Applicant: REACH Lanarkshire Autism, Hamilton (PS/HA/2/24) Amount Awarded: £440 [1recs] 3. Background 3.1. The Council’s community grants scheme includes provision for funding playschemes operating over the Summer, October and Easter school holiday periods. Applications have been invited from individual playschemes for 2024/2025. 3.2. The recommendations reflect the Council’s decision to allocate grant funding on the following basis:- £660 to playschemes that operate over the Summer, October and Easter periods £440 for summer period only £110 for each of the October and Easter periods 4. Employee Implications 4.1. None 7 25
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5. Financial Implications 5.1. The overall total approved to support Playschemes and Community Grants in the Hamilton area in 2024/2025 was £25,750. The proposed grants amounting to £880 recommended for playscheme grants in this report for approval, will be met from the Area Committee’s playscheme and community grant budget, leaving £24,870 to administer community grants for the remainder of 2024/2025. 6. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 6.1. There are no implications for climate change, sustainability or the environment in terms of the information contained in this report. 7. Other Implications 7.1. The risk associated with grant support is that the resources provided are not utilised for the purposes for which they were intended. This is mitigated by information received from the application form, the sign off of a Conditions of Grant form and by the implementation of an audit process. 8. Equality Impact Assessment and Consultation Arrangements 8.1. This report does not introduce a new policy, function or strategy or recommend a change to an existing policy, function or strategy and therefore no impact assessment is required. 8.2. All the necessary consultation with each group has taken place. Appropriate consultation has also taken place with other Council Resources. Jackie Taylor Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) 29 April 2024 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Improve the quality of lives and prospects of everyone in South Lanarkshire Focused on people and their needs We will work to put people first and reduce inequality Caring, connected, sustainable communities Previous References Hamilton Area Committee – 21 June 2023 List of Background Papers Individual playscheme grant application forms Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact:-Nicola Docherty, Administration Assistant Ext:- 4149 (Tel: 01698 454149) E-mail:- nicola.docherty@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 26
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. Report Agenda Item Report to: Hamilton Area Committee Date of Meeting: 15 May 2024 Report by: Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) Subject: Community Grant Applications 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- [purpose] request approval for the allocation of community grants to 8 community groups in the Hamilton Area Committee area from the 2024/2025 community grant budget advise on community grants approved by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources), in consultation with the Chair, in the period from the last Area Committee on 28 February 2024 to the end of the financial year on 31 March 2024 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- [recs] (1) that community grants be awarded as follows:- (a) Applicant: Larkhall New Parish Church Guild Outings Fund (HA/1/24) Purpose of Grant: Outing and entrance fees Identified Community Benefits: People live the healthiest lives possible Estimated Cost: £926 Total Eligible Grant Applied for: £926 Recommendation: £350 Amount Awarded: To be determined by the Committee (b) Applicant: Eddlewood Bowling Club Ladies’ Section, Hamilton (HA/2/24) Purpose of Grant: Outing Identified Community Benefits: People live the healthiest lives possible Estimated Cost: £300 Total Eligible Grant Applied for: £300 Recommendation: £300 Amount Awarded: To be determined by the Committee (c) Applicant: The Art Room, Hamilton (HA/3/24) Purpose of Grant: Outing and materials Identified Community Benefits: Focused on people and their needs Estimated Cost: £400 Total Eligible Grant Applied for: £400 Recommendation: £330 Amount Awarded: To be determined by the Committee 8 27
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(d) Applicant: SLC Radio, Hamilton (HA/4/24) Purpose of Grant: Equipment Identified Community Benefits: Focused on people and their needs Estimated Cost: £500 Total Eligible Grant Applied for: £500 Recommendation: £300 Amount Awarded: To be determined by the Committee (e) Applicant: Bothwell Horticultural Society (HA/5/24) Purpose of Grant: Materials, printing costs, outing and entrance fees Identified Community Benefits: We work to put people first and reduce inequality Estimated Cost: £990 Total Eligible Grant Applied for: £990 Recommendation: £710 Amount Awarded: To be determined by the Committee (f) Applicant: Earnock Residents’ Association, Hamilton (HA/7/24) Purpose of Grant: Administration and publicity costs Identified Community Benefits: Caring, connected, sustainable communities Estimated Cost: £250 Total Eligible Grant Applied for: £250 Recommendation: £250 Amount Awarded: To be determined by the Committee (g) Applicant: Hamilton District Youth Theatre (HDYT) (HA/8/24) Purpose of Grant: Entrance fees Identified Community Benefits: Our children and young people thrive Estimated Cost: £1,000 Total Eligible Grant Applied for: £1,000 Recommendation: £350 Amount Awarded: To be determined by the Committee (h) Applicant: Smile Children’s Charity (SCIO), Larkhall (HA/9/24) Purpose of Grant: Start-up costs – Administration and publicity costs Identified Community Benefits: Focused on people and their needs Estimated Cost: £500 Total Eligible Grant Applied for: £500 Recommendation: £300 Amount Awarded: To be determined by the Committee (2) that the action taken by the Executive or the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources), in consultation with the Chair, to approve the award of community grants in the period from the last Area Committee to the end of the financial year 2023/2024 to the groups detailed in Appendix 1, be noted. 28
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3. Background 3.1. The Council operates a community grants scheme to support local constituted community groups and voluntary organisations. All applications require to be supported by a constitution, audited accounts or annual income and expenditure accounts, a bank statement, and confirmation that the group/organisation will adhere to the conditions of the grant award. Applications are invited continually throughout the year. 3.2. The main aims of the community grants scheme are to:- fund activities and projects which bring community benefit involve people in the community by bringing them together to enjoy educational, recreational, leisure and other community activities or to improve the local environment 3.3. Support can be provided for a range of activities including administration and publicity costs, purchase of equipment and materials, annual outings and entrance fees, start-up costs and special events. 4. Employee Implications 4.1. None. 5. Financial Implications 5.1. The current position of the community for the Hamilton Area Committee area in 2024/2025 is as follows:- Total allocation for Community Grants £25,750 Community grants allocated in this report £ 2,890 Remaining balance *£22,860 *see paragraph 5.2 below 5.2 On the basis that the playscheme grants detailed in a separate report on this agenda amounting to £880 is approved, the remaining balance for allocation throughout the year is £21,980. 6. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 6.1. There are no implications for climate change, sustainability or the environment in terms of the information contained in this report. 7. Other Implications 7.1. The risk to the Council is that grant funding is not utilised for the purpose of which it was intended. This risk is mitigated by internal controls including audit procedures and conditions of grant agreement. 8. Equality Impact Assessment and Consultation Arrangements 8.1. This report does not introduce a new policy, function or strategy or recommend a change to an existing policy, function or strategy and, therefore, no impact assessment is required. 8.2. All the necessary consultation with the community groups has taken place. 29
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Jackie Taylor Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) 25 April 2024 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes ♦ Accountable, effective, efficient and transparent ♦ We will work towards a sustainable future in sustainable places ♦ Caring, connected, sustainable communities Previous References Hamilton Area Committee – 28 February 2024 List of Background Papers Individual application forms Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact:- Geraldine Wilkinson, Clerical Assistant Ext: 4818 (Tel: 01698 454818) E-mail: geraldine.wilkinson@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 30
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Appendix 1 Community grants approved by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) in consultation with the Chair, in the period from 29 February to 31 March 2024 (a) Applicant: Muiredge Primary School Parent Council (HA/39/23) Purpose of Grant: Equipment Amount Awarded: £600 (b) Applicant: Trinity Church Woman’s Group, Hamilton (HA/40/23) Purpose of Grant: Outing Amount Awarded: £300 (c) Applicant: Hamilton South Townswomens Guild (HA/41/23) Purpose of Grant: Outing Amount Awarded: £300 (d) Applicant: Sharp and Gentles Fly Tying and Fishing Club, Hamilton (HA/42/23) Purpose of Grant: Entrance fees and materials Amount Awarded: £440 (e) Applicant: Dalserf Church Guild, Larkhall (HA/43/23) Purpose of Grant: Outing and entrance fees Amount Awarded: £350 31
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