Agenda Document Pack - South Lanarkshire Council - 01/10/2025
South Lanarkshire Council · 1 October 2025
Back to South Lanarkshire Council — 1 October 2025 and its agenda
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Council Offices, Almada Street Hamilton, ML3 0AA Tuesday, 23 September 2025 Dear Councillor South Lanarkshire Council The Members listed below are requested to attend a meeting of the Council to be held as follows:- Date: Wednesday, 01 October 2025 Time: 10:00 Venue: Hybrid - Council Chamber, 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 Margaret Cooper (Provost), Bert Thomson (Depute Provost), Alex Allison, John Anderson, Ralph Barker, John Bradley, Walter Brogan, Robert Brown, Archie Buchanan, Mathew Buchanan, Janine Calikes, Andy Carmichael, Maureen Chalmers, Ross Clark, Gerry Convery, Poppy Corbett, Andrea Cowan, Margaret Cowie, Maureen Devlin, Colin Dewar, Mary Donnelly, Monique Equi, Joe Fagan, Allan Falconer, Grant Ferguson, Gladys Ferguson-Miller, Elise Frame, Alistair Fulton, Ross Gowland, Geri Gray, Lynsey Hamilton, Celine Handibode, Graeme Horne, Mark Horsham, Martin Hose, Cal Johnston-Dempsey, Gavin Keatt, Susan Kerr, Ross Lambie, Martin Lennon, Richard Lockhart, Eileen Logan, Katy Loudon, Hugh Macdonald, Julia Marrs, Ian McAllan, Catherine McClymont, Kenny McCreary, Lesley McDonald, Elaine McDougall, Mark McGeever, Davie McLachlan, Richard Nelson, Carol Nugent, Norman Rae, Mo Razzaq, Kirsten Robb, John Ross, Graham Scott, David Shearer, Helen Toner, Margaret B Walker, David Watson, Kirsty Williams 1
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BUSINESS 1 Declaration of Interests 2 Minutes of Previous Meeting Minutes of the meeting of South Lanarkshire Council held on 7 May 2025 submitted for approval as a correct record. (Copy attached) 5 - 10 3 Minutes of Risk and Audit Scrutiny Committee Minutes of the meeting of the Risk and Audit Scrutiny Committee held on 18 February 2025 submitted for noting. (Copy attached) 11 - 18 4 Minutes of Risk and Audit Scrutiny Committee Minutes of the meeting of the Risk and Audit Scrutiny Committee held on 6 May 2025 submitted for noting. (Copy attached) 19 - 22 Item(s) for Decision 5 Update to Terms of Reference Report dated 29 August 2025 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources). (Copy attached) 23 - 24 6 Touch a Life, Make a Difference Initiative - Update Report dated 15 September 2025 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources). (Copy attached) 25 - 28 7 Recommendation Referred by Executive Committee - Annual Investment Report 2024/2025 Report by the Chief Executive. (Copy to follow) 8 Notice of Motion - South Lanarkshire's Climate Emergency Declaration Motion received in terms of Standing Order No. 21 on 15 September 2025, proposed by Councillor Kirsten Robb and seconded by Councillor Ross Clark. (Copy attached) 29 - 30 9 Notice of Motion - Review of the West of Scotland Road Safety Forum Guidance Motion received in terms of Standing Order No. 21 on 15 September 2025, proposed by Councillor Julia Marrs and seconded by Councillor Katy Loudon. (Copy attached) 31 - 32 10 Notice of Motion - Closure of Cambuslang Jobcentre Motion received in terms of Standing Order No. 21 on 15 September 2025, proposed by Councillor Katy Loudon and seconded by Councillor Andrea Cowan. (Copy attached) 33 - 34 Urgent Business 11 Urgent Business Any other items of business which the Provost decides are urgent. 2
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For further information, please contact:- Clerk Name: Susan Somerville Clerk Telephone: 07557323097 Clerk Email: susan.somerville@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 3
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SOUTH LANARKSHIRE COUNCIL Minutes of meeting held via MS Teams and in the Council Chamber, Council Offices, Almada Street, Hamilton on 7 May 2025 Chair: Provost Margaret Cooper Councillors Present: Councillor Alex Allison, Councillor John Anderson, Councillor Ralph Barker, Councillor John Bradley, Councillor Walter Brogan, Councillor Robert Brown, Councillor Archie Buchanan, Councillor Mathew Buchanan, Councillor Andy Carmichael, Councillor Maureen Chalmers, Councillor Ross Clark, Councillor Gerry Convery, Councillor Poppy Corbett, Councillor Andrea Cowan, Councillor Margaret Cowie, Councillor Colin Dewar, Councillor Mary Donnelly, Councillor Monique Equi, Councillor Joe Fagan, Councillor Allan Falconer, Councillor Grant Ferguson, Councillor Gladys Ferguson-Miller, Councillor Ross Gowland, Councillor Geri Gray, Councillor Celine Handibode, Councillor Graeme Horne, Councillor Martin Hose, Councillor Cal Johnston-Dempsey, Councillor Gavin Keatt, Councillor Susan Kerr, Councillor Ross Lambie, Councillor Martin Lennon, Councillor Richard Lockhart, Councillor Eileen Logan, Councillor Katy Loudon, Councillor Hugh Macdonald, Councillor Julia Marrs, Councillor Ian McAllan, Councillor Catherine McClymont, Councillor Kenny McCreary, Councillor Lesley McDonald, Councillor Elaine McDougall, Councillor Mark McGeever, Councillor Davie McLachlan, Councillor Carol Nugent, Councillor Norman Rae, Councillor Mo Razzaq, Councillor John Ross, Councillor Graham Scott, Councillor David Shearer, Councillor Bert Thomson (Depute Provost), Councillor Helen Toner, Councillor Margaret B Walker, Councillor David Watson, Councillor Kirsty Williams Councillors' Apologies: Councillor Janine Calikes, Councillor Maureen Devlin, Councillor Elise Frame, Councillor Alistair Fulton, Councillor Lynsey Hamilton, Councillor Mark Horsham, Councillor Richard Nelson, Councillor Kirsten Robb Attending: Chief Executive’s Service P Manning, Chief Executive Community and Enterprise Resources D Booth, Executive Director Education Resources A Donaldson, Interim Executive Director Finance and Corporate Resources J Taylor, Executive Director; K McLeod, Administration Assistant; S Somerville, Administration Manager; I Strachan, Head of Administration and Legal Services Housing and Technical Resources S Gibson, Executive Director Social Work Resources/Health and Social Care S Sengupta, Director, Health and Social Care 1 Declaration of Interests No interests were declared. 2 Minutes of Previous Meeting The minutes of the meeting of South Lanarkshire Council held on 19 February 2025 were submitted for approval as a correct record. 2 5
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The Council decided: that the minutes be approved as a correct record. 3 Minutes of Special Meeting The minutes of the special meeting of South Lanarkshire Council held on 26 February 2025 were submitted for approval as a correct record. The Council decided: that the minutes be approved as a correct record. 4 Minutes of Risk and Audit Scrutiny Committee The minutes of the meeting of the Risk and Audit Scrutiny Committee held on 19 November 2024 were submitted for noting. The Council decided: that the minutes be noted. 5 South Lanarkshire Integration Joint Board – Reappointment of the Council’s Voting Members and Substitute Members A report dated 8 April 2025 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) was submitted on the reappointment of the Council’s voting and substitute voting members on the South Lanarkshire Integration Joint Board (IJB). At its meeting on 6 October 2015, the South Lanarkshire IJB approved its Standing Orders. The Standing Orders allowed for the Council to appoint its voting members and substitute members to the IJB for a period of 3 years, after which they required to be reappointed. It was proposed that Councillors Walker, Logan, Chalmers and Frame be reappointed as voting members and that Councillors Falconer, Williams, Hugh Macdonald and Ross be reappointed as substitute voting members to the IJB for a period of 3 years with effect from 24 June 2025. The Council decided: that Councillors Walker, Logan, Chalmers and Frame be reappointed as voting members, and Councillors Falconer, Williams, Hugh Macdonald and Ross be reappointed as substitute voting members, to the South Lanarkshire IJB for a period of 3 years, effective from 24 June 2025. [Reference: Minutes of 1 November 2023 (Paragraph 6) and Minutes of the South Lanarkshire Integration Joint Board of 12 December 2023 (Paragraph 15)] 6 Councillor Meeting Participation A report dated 15 April 2025 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) was submitted on councillor participation at meetings, specifically whether councillors should be able to participate remotely or be physically present. At its meeting on 20 November 2024, the Council agreed proposed changes to its Standing Orders on Procedures. At that meeting, in response to a point raised by Councillor Watson, it was agreed that officers would bring back a report on councillor participation at meetings, specifically whether councillors should be able to participate remotely or have to be physically present. It was noted that this matter would first be considered at the Standards and Procedures Advisory Forum (SPAF). 6
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Legislation allowed for formal local authority meetings to be conducted in any way in which each member was enabled to participate, even if not physically present, on the direction of the Chair/Depute Chair. Since 2022, the Council had operated on the basis that all Council/Committee meetings would be held on a hybrid basis, with the councillors able to decide whether to attend remotely or in person. In approving changes to the Standing Orders on Procedures on 20 November 2024, the Council agreed to a change which formalised that approach. Information was provided on:- a summary of feedback following an informal survey of other Scottish local authorities by the Head of Administration and Legal Services over December 2024/January 2025 the approach elsewhere in the UK the benefits of remote participation At its meeting held on 25 March 2025, the SPAF supported the current approach to councillor participation at meetings being continued, with it also being for Business Managers to take up within their own political groups in terms of encouraging in person attendance for some meetings. The SPAF also considered the current approach to holding Area Committee meetings and agreed that it would be preferable that those be held within the relevant locality to enable more local residents to be able to attend the meetings in person. It was, therefore, proposed that Area Committee meetings be held on a hybrid basis using Microsoft Teams within their respective localities, with the exception of Hamilton Area Committee which would continue to use Confero and be held in Council Offices, Hamilton. A mobile solution would be adopted where equipment was moved to each of the venues listed in paragraph 4.16 of the report. Following discussions, the Head of Administration and Legal Services responded to a member’s question in terms of anticipated timescales for Area Committee meetings to be held within the localities. The Council decided: (1) that the report be noted; (2) that the current approach to councillor participation at meetings be continued, with Business Managers to take up within their own political groups in terms of encouraging in person attendance for some meetings; and (3) that Area Committee meetings be held within the localities on a hybrid basis, as set out in paragraphs 4.14 to 4.20 of the report, with authority being delegated to the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) to implement the same, in consultation with the relevant Area Committee Chairs where appropriate. [Reference: Minutes of 20 November 2024 (Paragraph 6) Councillor Watson, as the mover of an amendment which failed to find a seconder, asked that his dissent be recorded. Councillor Barker joined the meeting during this item of business 7 Item of Urgent Business – Hamilton Academical Football Club Relocation and Stadium Plans In terms of Standing Order No 4(c), the Provost decided that consideration be given to the following motion, proposed by Councillor Keatt, seconded by Councillor Dewar, as a matter of urgency:- 7
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“Council notes with concern the recent announcement by Hamilton Academical Football Club regarding its relocation from New Douglas Park to Broadwood Stadium. Council recognises the historic and cultural significance of Hamilton Academical Football Club to the town and the wider South Lanarkshire area, and acknowledges the vital role it plays in community cohesion, youth engagement, and the local economy. Council confirms its support for keeping Hamilton Academical F.C. within the town and commits to working constructively with the club, and relevant partners, as the club explores options for securing a suitable, long-term home for the club within Hamilton. Council further notes that, in the club’s public statement, it confirmed that discussions have been initiated with South Lanarkshire Council to identify suitable land within Hamilton for the construction of a new stadium. In light of this, Council agrees that officers will keep elected members updated at regular intervals, should there be any developments with those discussions, but respecting the confidential and commercially sensitive nature they may have.” Councillor Keatt, in moving the motion, spoke of the impact of the relocation on the town, the local economy, community links, youth engagement and for the Club’s loyal fans. Councillor Dewar, in seconding the motion, outlined his concerns, both as a councillor and as fan, and those of his constituents. In response to questions from Councillor Lambie, the Chief Executive advised that, as some of the information he was referring to related to decisions taken a number of years ago, he would have to look into the matter and provide a response that would be circulated to all councillors. In terms of remaining contractual obligations relating to the stadium, he was not aware of any but would clarify as part of the response to be circulated. In relation to what future commitment could be given to facilitating the football team to remain in Hamilton, he confirmed that elected members would be kept updated should there be any developments, taking cognisance of anything that was confidential or commercially sensitive. In response to Councillor Watson’s question on what discussions the Council had had with the Club and the owners of the stadium and whether the Council could act as arbitrators between the 2 parties, the Executive Director (Community and Enterprise Resources) advised that, while acknowledging that the Club had put out a press release mentioning their dialogue with the Council, representatives from the Club had come to the Council in confidence. To date, there had been an exploratory meeting with them and a follow-up request to the Council for information, which had been responded to. The contact with the Council had included speculative enquiries relating to the general availability of sites. Officers had confirmed that they were prepared to have ongoing discussions with the Club in relation to that. There had been no contact from the owners of the stadium. In terms of mediation/arbitration, no approach had been made from either party for the Council to carry out that role, however, the Council would be keen for both parties to continue dialogue to resolve the matter. Councillors McLachlan and Razzaq relayed their concerns on the matter. The Council decided: that the terms of the motion be supported and officers to keep elected members updated at regular intervals, should there be any developments with those discussions, but respecting the confidential and commercially sensitive nature they might have. 8
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Provost’s Closing Remarks The Provost advised members that there would be a small presentation at 12.30pm tomorrow at the front of Council Offices, Hamilton to mark the 80th Anniversary of VE Day. 9
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RISK AND AUDIT SCRUTINY COMMITTEE Minutes of meeting held via Confero and in Committee Room 1, Council Offices, Almada Street, Hamilton on 18 February 2025 Chair: Councillor Mary Donnelly (Depute) Councillors Present: Councillor Colin Dewar, Councillor Alistair Fulton, Councillor Ross Gowland, Councillor Julia Marrs (substitute for Councillor Elaine McDougall), Councillor Susan Kerr Councillors' Apologies: Councillor Mathew Buchanan, Councillor Celine Handibode, Councillor Richard Lockhart, Councillor Elaine McDougall (Chair) Councillor Also Present: Councillor Joe Fagan (for item 3) Attending: Chief Executive’s Service P Manning, Chief Executive (for item 3); T Little, Head of Communications and Strategy Community and Enterprise Resources M Wilkie, Performance and Policy Development Manager Education Resources G Lambie, Operations Manager Finance and Corporate Resources J Taylor, Executive Director; Y Douglas, Audit and Compliance Manager; B Hall, Administration Officer; E-A McGonigle, Administration Adviser; M Milne, Head of Personnel Services; A Norris, Administration Assistant; L O’Hagan, Head of Finance (Strategy); I Strachan, Head of Administration and Legal Services Also Attending: Audit Scotland J Boyd and A Barclay, External Auditors Chair’s Opening Remarks The Chair reminded members that there would be an awareness session for the Committee following the business of the meeting. 1 Declaration of Interests No interests were declared. 2 Minutes of Previous Meeting The minutes of the meeting of the Risk and Audit Scrutiny Committee held on 19 November 2024 were submitted for approval as a correct record. The Committee decided: that the minutes be approved as a correct record. 3 11
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3 Good Governance Update A report dated 30 January 2025 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) was submitted providing an update on the Council’s governance arrangements. Each year, the Council undertook a comprehensive review of the governance arrangements required to support its financial and operational controls. The annual review of governance arrangements informed the Governance Statement which was included within the Council’s Annual Accounts. As part of this annual review, the Council’s Local Code of Corporate Governance was reviewed, updated and republished. Compliance with the Code was also reviewed on an annual basis and Appendix 1 to the report provided details of the Council’s compliance with the Code. Details of the amendments made to the Code, following the review, were provided and the revised Code was attached as Appendix 2 to the report. Progress on the significant governance areas, as highlighted within the Annual Governance Statement 2023/2024, was detailed in Appendix 3 to the report. The Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) responded to a member’s questions in relation to:- financial challenges, specifically the reported budget gap for 2025/2026 and the probable outturn South Lanarkshire Leisure and Culture (SLLC) and the progress against the 3 key workstreams The Committee decided: (1) that the findings from the annual compliance check against the Local Code of Corporate Governance be noted; (2) that the updated Local Code of Corporate Governance, as detailed in Appendix 2 to the report, be approved; and (3) that progress against the significant governance areas identified within the Annual Governance Statement 2023/2024, as detailed in Appendix 3 to the report, be noted. [Reference: Minutes of 26 March 2024 (Paragraph 3)] 4 Internal Audit Plan 2025/2026 A report dated 27 January 2025 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) was submitted seeking:- approval of the revised Internal Audit Mandate and Charter endorsement of the Audit Strategy approval of the proposed Internal Audit Plan for 2025/2026 Internal Audit formed part of the Council’s wider governance framework. Output from the function was the delivery of a planned programme of internal audit assignments. Each assignment was formally reported to the Committee and an audit opinion expressed which was based on the level of assurance that testing had provided. The definitions of the various levels of assurance that were expressed within an audit report were provided in Appendix 1 to the report. Those assurances informed an overall audit opinion of the adequacy and effectiveness of the Council’s framework of governance, risk management and control arrangements that were reported to the Committee and captured in the Council's Governance Statement which formed part of the Annual Accounts. 12
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In previous years, the function operated within the context of an Internal Audit charter and a set of internal audits standards known as the Public Sector Internal Audit Standards (PSIAS). From 1 April 2025, those Standards would be replaced by the Global Internal Audit Standards (GIAS). The new Standards had been issued by the Internal Audit Standards Board and endorsed by the Institute of Internal Auditors. The GIAS set out a role for those “charged with governance” within an organisation and within the Council, that was the Risk and Audit Scrutiny Committee. The requirements of the new Standards were set out in paragraphs 4.2 to 4.8 of the report and a copy of the proposed Internal Audit Mandate and Charter was attached as Appendix 2 to the report. A further element of the overall workplan that the Standards referenced was the Audit Strategy. The Audit Strategy, that underpinned the 2025/2026 Internal Audit Plan, was set out in Appendix 3 to the report. The broad aims of the Strategy were set out in paragraph 5.1 of the report. The Audit Strategy would be developed further in 2025/2026. At the outset of the planning process each year, capacity to deliver the Audit Plan had to be determined. Capacity in 2025/2026 had been adjusted to remove the time to deliver audit plans for the function’s 4 external clients, as detailed in paragraph 6.1 of the report. The process had determined that 1,208 days were available to deliver the Council’s Audit Plan for 2025/2026. Further details on the planning themes and content of the plan were provided in paragraphs 6.2 to 6.8 of the report. The draft Internal Audit Plan 2026/2026 was attached as Appendix 4 to the report. The Committee decided: (1) that the revised Internal Audit Mandate and Charter be approved; (2) that the Audit Strategy be endorsed; and (3) that the proposed Internal Audit Plan for 2025/2026 be approved. [Reference: Minutes of 26 March 2024 (Paragraph 4)] 5a South Lanarkshire Council Annual Audit Plan 2024/2025 The Committee considered the South Lanarkshire Council Annual Audit Plan for 2024/2025 submitted by Audit Scotland, the Council’s External Auditor. The Plan set out the audit work necessary to allow Audit Scotland to provide an independent auditor’s report and meet the wider scope requirements of public sector audit which included assessing arrangements for:- financial management financial sustainability vision, leadership and governance use of resources to improve outcomes The planned work on the wider scope responsibilities was risk based and, proportionate and in addition to local risks, challenges which were impacting the whole public sector would be considered. Based on the risk assessment process, significant risks of material misstatement to the financial statements had been identified and those were summarised in Exhibit 2 of the report. A risk around financial sustainability had been identified in the wider scope areas and Best Value and this was detailed in Exhibit 4 of the report. 13
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The Plan was structured around the following areas:- annual accounts wider scope and best value reporting arrangements, timetable and audit fee other matters Details were given on key aspects of those areas. As part of the annual work on Best Value, thematic reviews were conducted as directed by the Accounts Commission. In 2024/2025, the subject of the thematic review was service transformation and involved considering how the Council was redesigning services to maintain outcomes and deliver services more efficiently. The Committee decided: that the report be noted. Councillor Scott joined the meeting during this item of business 5b South Lanarkshire Council Charitable Trusts’ Annual Audit Plan 2024/2025 The Committee considered the South Lanarkshire Council Charitable Trusts’ Annual Audit Plan for 2024/2025 submitted by Audit Scotland, the Council’s External Auditor. The purpose of the Annual Audit Plan was to provide an overview of the planned scope and timing of the 2024/2025 audit of South Lanarkshire Council Charitable Trusts’ annual accounts. The audit was performed in accordance with the Code of Audit Practice, including supplementary guidance, International Standards on Auditing (UK), and other legislation. The Plan was structured around the following areas:- annual accounts wider scope and best value reporting arrangements, timetable and audit fee other matters Details were given on key aspects of those areas. The audit of the annual accounts was driven by materiality and the risks of material misstatement in the financial statements, with greater attention given to the significant risks of material misstatement. Based on a risk assessment process, significant risks of material misstatement to the financial statements had been identified and those were summarised in Exhibit 2 of the report. There were no significant risks identified in the wider scope areas or Best Value from the risk assessment process. The Senior Auditor advised of a typographical error in Exhibit 3 whereby the date of signing the Independent Auditor’s Report and issue of Annual Auditor Report should be 30 September 2025. An updated copy of the report would be circulated to members following the meeting. The Committee decided: that the report be noted. 14
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6 Global Internal Audit Standards A report dated 28 January 2025 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) was submitted setting out the requirements and responsibilities of the new Global Internal Audit Standards (GIAS), Application Note: Global Internal Audit Standards in the UK Public Sector and the draft Code of Practice for the Governance of Internal Audit in UK Local Government, applicable from 1 April 2025. Internal Audit within the Council formed part of the Council’s wider governance framework. Previously, the function operated within the context of the Internal Audit charter and a set of audit standards known as the Public Sector Internal Audit Standards (PSIAS). From 1 April 2025, those Standards would be replaced by the GIAS. As an audit committee, the Risk and Audit Scrutiny Committee had a key role to play in ensuring that the internal function adhered to the GIAS and fulfilled its mandate effectively and efficiently. Therefore, the Risk and Audit Scrutiny Committee must be familiar with the new Standards and their implications. The Standards were supplemented by 2 documents:- a draft Code of Practice for the Governance of Internal Audit in Local Government which reflected the legislation and practices of local government bodies an application note that would assist with the implementation of the GIAS by addressing areas where interpretation or adjustments were required for the public sector From an organisational perspective, the core principles of Internal Audit, codes of ethics, standards and guidance were now incorporated within a single Standard. Those Standards provided confidence that a quality internal audit service, based on conformance with standards, delivered assurance alongside advice, insight, oversight and foresight. The role of the internal audit function was envisaged as one that enhanced an organisation's ability to serve the public interest. The Standards were based on 15 core principles and set across the following 5 domains, which were fully detailed in paragraph 4.6 of the report:- purpose of internal auditing ethics and professionalism governance of the Internal Audit function managing the internal Audit function performing Internal Audit Services Compliance with the Standards continued to be a self-assessment exercise, with periodic independent external inspection, and for this to be reported on an annual basis. For the Council, the outcome of the first self-assessment would be reported within the 2025/2026 Annual Assurance Report, with the first external assessment anticipated to be in 2027/2028. A summary of the main changes in the GIAS were detailed in paragraph 4.9 of the report. The current audit process was being reviewed to ensure compliance. An action plan was being developed as required. A new requirement, as set out in the GIAS, was the development of an Internal Audit Mandate and Charter and details were provided in paragraphs 4.11 and 4.12 of the report. Circumstances might require either, or both, the Internal Audit Mandate or elements of the Internal Audit Charter to be amended or updated. Should such a revision be required, the updated Mandate or Charter would be presented to the Committee and senior management for approval. 15
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Separately, the Chief Internal Auditor was required to develop an Audit Strategy that underpinned the Annual Internal Audit Plan and supported the strategic objectives of the organisation. Both the Mandate, Charter and Audit Strategy were presented along with the Internal Audit Plan for approval as part of a separate report presented to the Committee. The role of the audit committee was set out in some detail in Domain Three “governance of the Internal Audit function”, and the main element of this Domain was detailed in paragraph 4.16 of the report. Audit assignments undertaken in 2025/2026, and the Annual Report for this year and onwards, would also reflect the requirements of the new Standards. The Committee would receive routine updates within Internal Audit Activity Reports on compliance with the new Standards. The Committee decided: that the requirements and responsibilities of the new Global Internal Audit Standards, Application Note: Global Internal Audit Standards in the UK Public Sector and the draft Code of Practice for the Governance of Internal Audit in UK Local Government, applicable from 1 April 2025, be noted. 7 Internal Audit Activity as at 24 January 2025 A report dated 24 January 2025 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) was submitted on work completed by Internal Audit during the period 1 November 2024 to 24 January 2025. Findings from internal audit assignments were reported to this Committee throughout the year and the last progress report was considered by this Committee on 19 November 2024. Information was provided for Internal Audit work completed during the period 1 November 2024 to 24 January 2025. As at 24 January 2025, 98% of the 2024/2025 Audit Plan was in progress with only one assignment in relation to the annual update of fraud risk registers still to commence. Of the 98% of the Plan that was in progress, 34% was at draft report stage with a further 24% which related to assignments that run throughout the year and would be closed at 31 March 2025. Assignments completed in the period 1 November 2024 to 24 January 2025, together with a summary of overall assurances, were detailed in Appendix 1 to the report. Key performance indicators for the period to 31 December 2024 were included in Appendix 2 to the report. The Internal Audit function within the Council would continue to comply with the Public Sector Internal Audit Standards (PSIAS) in delivery of the Internal Audit Service in 2024/2025. Preparatory work was underway to ensure that the Internal Audit function complied with the new Global Internal Audit Standards (GIAS) which would apply from 1 April 2025. An update was also provided on progress against the Audit Strategy which was a requirement of the PSIAS. Delivery of the 2024/2025 Strategy would be evidenced by the completion of the Internal Audit Plan in year and monitored during the year by performance indicators which were regularly reported to the Committee. The Committee decided: that progress on Internal Audit activity be noted. [Reference: Minutes of 19 November 2024 (Paragraph 3)] 16
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8 Fraud Statistics 6 Monthly Update 2024/2025 A report dated 22 January 2025 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) was submitted on fraud statistics for the 6 month period to 30 September 2024. Details were given on the number, types, outcomes and costs of fraud investigations, together with performance measures for the 6 month period to 30 September 2024. A comparison with the statistics for the same period in 2023 was also provided. The fraud statistics for the 6 month period to September 2024 highlighted that:- 27 investigations, with a total value of £8,000, had been reported in the period, representing a decrease in number from the same period in 2023 of the 198 open cases, 13, valued at £14,000, had been closed within the period, representing a decrease when compared to the closed investigations for the same period in 2023 10 of the 13 cases closed in the period were founded and those were all external Referrals from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) had been removed from the statistics to ensure that the caseload reflected only those cases where a potential fraud had been identified by the Council. Concerns reported in the 6 months to 30 September 2024 were relatively low, with cases coming primarily from suspected benefit fraud and whistle-blowing allegations. In addition to those cases summarised in the report, a further 35 South Lanarkshire Council investigations were being progressed by the DWP with a potential cumulative housing benefit/fraud value of around £50,000. On conclusion of investigations, the Council would seek repayment in line with standard recovery procedures. Services worked with the Security Coordinator or with Internal Audit to review and address gaps in controls identified during the investigation of cases. Where appropriate, improvement plans were agreed with the relevant Heads of Service and the actions followed up by Internal Audit to ensure implementation. Outcomes for concluded investigations were reported to the Committee as part of Internal Audit’s Annual Assurance report. Fraud was recognised as one of the top risks facing the Council, as detailed in paragraph 8.1 of the report. The Council’s Serious and Organised Crime (SOC) Working Group progressed the delivery of various actions which would be revised if new or emerging threats were identified through the pan Lanarkshire Multi Agency SOC Group. Updates would be presented to the Committee periodically. The Committee decided: that the contents of the report be noted. [Reference: Minutes of 24 September 2024 (Paragraphs 5 and 8)] 9 Performance and Review Scrutiny Forum Annual Update A report dated 28 January 2025 by the Chief Executive was submitted on reports considered by the Performance and Review Scrutiny Forum in the period from January to December 2024. A report on the business considered by the Performance and Review Scrutiny Forum would continue to be submitted to the Risk and Audit Scrutiny Committee on an annual basis. The Committee decided: that the report be noted. [Reference: Minutes of 30 January 2024 (Paragraph 5)] 17
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10 Forward Programme for Future Meetings A report dated 13 January 2025 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) was submitted on the outline forward programme for the meetings of the Risk and Audit Scrutiny Committee to 10 March 2026. As part of future arrangements, members were invited to suggest topics for inclusion in the Committee’s forward programme. The Committee decided: that the outline forward programme for the meetings of the Risk and Audit Scrutiny Committee to 10 March 2026 be noted. [Reference: Minutes 19 November 2024 (Paragraph 5)] 11 Urgent Business There were no items of urgent business. 18
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RISK AND AUDIT SCRUTINY COMMITTEE Minutes of meeting held via Confero and in Committee Room 1, Council Offices, Almada Street, Hamilton on 6 May 2025 Chair: Councillor Mary Donnelly (Depute) Councillors Present: Councillor Mathew Buchanan, Councillor Colin Dewar, Councillor Monique Equi (substitute for Councillor Ross Gowland), Councillor Susan Kerr, Councillor Richard Lockhart, Councillor Helen Toner (substitute for Councillor Elaine McDougall) Councillors' Apologies: Councillor Alistair Fulton, Councillor Ross Gowland, Councillor Celine Handibode, Councillor Elaine McDougall (Chair) Attending: Finance and Corporate Resources J Taylor, Executive Director; Y Douglas, Audit and Compliance Manager; E-A McGonigle, Administration Adviser; A Norris, Administration Assistant; L O’Hagan, Head of Finance (Strategy); I Strachan, Head of Administration and Legal Services 1 Declaration of Interests No interests were declared. 2 Minutes of Previous Meeting The minutes of the meeting of the Risk and Audit Scrutiny Committee held on 18 February 2025 were submitted for approval as a correct record. The Committee decided: that the minutes be approved as a correct record. 3 Internal Audit Activity Report A report dated 15 April 2025 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) was submitted on work completed by Internal Audit during the period 25 January to 11 April 2025. Findings from internal audit assignments were reported to this Committee throughout the year and the last progress report was considered by the Committee on 18 February 2025. Information was provided for Internal Audit work completed during the period 25 January to 11 April 2025. As at 11 April 2025, 100% of the 2024/2025 Audit Plan was in progress. Of this, 94% of the Plan was at draft report stage. Assignments completed in the period 25 January to 11 April 2025, together with a summary of overall assurances, were detailed in Appendix 1 to the report. Key performance indicators for the period to 11 April 2025 were provided in Appendix 2 to the report. 4 19
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The Internal Audit function within the Council would continue to comply with the Public Sector Internal Audit Standards (PSIAS) in delivery of the Internal Audit Service in 2024/2025. The new Global Internal Audit Standards (GIAS) would apply from 1 April 2025 and future activity reports to the Committee would reflect the requirements of those new standards. Updates were also provided on:- meetings of the Chief Internal Auditors’ Group which had provided an opportunity to share best practice and attend presentations on topical issues. A copy of the Chief Internal Auditors’ Group 2024/2025 Annual Report was provided at Appendix 3 to the report progress against the Audit Strategy which was a requirement of the PSIAS. Delivery of the 2024/2025 Strategy had been evidenced by the completion of the Internal Audit Plan in year, and monitored during the year by performance indicators which were regularly reported to the Committee The Committee decided: that progress on Internal Audit activity be noted. [Reference: Minutes of 18 February 2025 (Paragraph 7)] 4 Audit Scotland Financial Bulletin 2023/2024 A report dated 8 April 2025 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) was submitted on the Audit Scotland report entitled ‘Local government in Scotland: Financial bulletin 2023/2024’ which had been published in January 2025. The report had been divided into 3 parts:- council funding and budgets financial performance financial position and outlook The key messages from each of those 3 parts of the Audit Scotland report were detailed in sections 4 and 5 of the report. An assessment of the position in South Lanarkshire Council was provided in section 6 of the report. The Committee decided: (1) that the key messages and recommendations contained in the Audit Scotland report entitled 'Financial bulletin 2023/2024', as detailed in sections 4 and 5 of the report, be noted; and (2) that the commentary on the Council’s position, as included in the Audit Scotland report and as detailed in section 6 of the report, be noted. [Reference: Minutes of 25 June 2024 (Paragraph 8)] 5 Financial Resources Scrutiny Forum Activity A report dated 3 April 2025 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) was submitted on reports considered by the Financial Resources Scrutiny Forum in the period from August 2023 to March 2024. A report on the business considered by the Financial Resources Scrutiny Forum would continue to be submitted to the Risk and Audit Scrutiny Committee on an annual basis. 20
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The Committee decided: that the summary of reports considered by the financial Resources Scrutiny Forum for the period August 2024 to March 2025, as detailed in Appendix 1 of the report, be noted. [Reference: Minutes of 24 June 2024 (Paragraph 9)] 6 Forward Programme for Future Meetings A report dated 11 April 2025 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) was submitted on the outline forward programme for the meetings of the Risk and Audit Scrutiny Committee to 26 May 2026. As part of future arrangements, members were invited to suggest topics for inclusion in the Committee’s forward programme. The Committee decided: that the outline forward programme for the meetings of the Risk and Audit Scrutiny Committee to 26 May 2026 be noted. [Reference: Minutes 18 February 2025 (Paragraph 10)] 7 Urgent Business There were no items of urgent business. 21
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Report Agenda Item Report to: South Lanarkshire Council Date of Meeting: 1 October 2025 Report by: Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) Subject: Update to Terms of Reference 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- [purpose] request approval to amend the Terms of Reference in respect of Area Committees [1purpose] 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Council is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- [recs] (1) that the Terms of Reference of the Area Committees be amended, as set out in paragraph 4.1 of the report, to include the power to designate areas as Firework Control Zones. 3. Background 3.1. The Fireworks and Pyrotechnic Articles (Scotland) Act 2022 introduced a range of restrictions and requirements on the use of fireworks across Scotland. A key aspect of the legislation was the introduction of discretionary powers for local authorities to designate Firework Control Zones (FCZs). An FCZ is an area within a local authority’s boundaries in which it is a criminal offence for a member of the public to ignite a firework, including on private property such as a garden. It is also an offence to set off a firework into the boundaries of a zone, or to knowingly or recklessly throw or cast a lit firework into a zone. 3.2. At its meeting held on 27 August 2025, the Executive Committee agreed that, given the geographical nature of any FCZ and both the benefits and implications it can have locally, it would be appropriate that Area Committees determine whether to approve or reject proposals for FCZs. 4. Proposals 4.1. It is proposed that the Terms of Reference for Area Committees be amended to include an additional clause under Powers and Responsibilities as follows:- “To designate a place within the Area as a firework control zone, and to amend and/or revoke such a firework control zone, all in terms of the Fireworks and Pyrotechnic Articles (Scotland) Act 2022’ 5. Employee Implications 5.1. There are no employee implications directly arising from this report. 5 23
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6. Financial Implications 6.1. There are no financial implications directly arising from this report. 7. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 7.1. There are no climate change, sustainability or environmental implications associated with this report. 8. Other Implications 8.1. There are no other implications arising from this report. 9. Integrated Impact Assessment and Consultation Requirements 9.1. 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. 9.2. There was no requirement for consultation in terms of the content of this report. Jackie Taylor Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) 29 August 2025 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Accountable, effective, efficient and transparent Previous References South Lanarkshire Council of 11 September 2024 Executive Committee of 27 August 2025 List of Background Papers None Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact:- Iain Strachan, Head of Administration and Legal Services Ext: 4658 (Tel: 01698 454658) E-mail: iain.strachan@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 24
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Report Agenda Item Report to: South Lanarkshire Council Date of Meeting: 1 October 2025 Report by: Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) Subject: Touch a Life, Make a Difference Initiative – Update 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- [purpose] Update the Council on the use of the donations generated by the Touch a Life, Make a Difference fundraising work in 2025 [1purpose] 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Council is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- (1) that this update on the Touch a Life, Make a Difference initiative is noted, including the pledge made by the Council to donate £5K to Sense Scotland, as an initial share of the donations generated by the Touch a Life, Make a Difference fundraising work in 2025; (2) that the one-off donation of £500 to Unison’s transportation of surplus gym equipment to Ukraine be approved, as a further beneficiary of the Touch a Life, Make a Difference fundraising work in 2025; and (3) to note that an annual update on the work of the initiative will be submitted to the 10 December 2025 meeting of the Council. [1recs] 3. Background 3.1. At its meeting on 31 January 2024, South Lanarkshire Council approved the launch of the “Touch a Life, Make a Difference” initiative to encourage local organisations, community groups, local people and schoolchildren to raise money for good causes within their own and the wider South Lanarkshire area for the benefit of people. The Council also approved Kilbryde Hospice as the beneficiary of fundraising initiatives in 2024. 3.2. An update on the work of the initiative, and the funds raised for Kilbryde Hospice, was reported to the Council on 20 November 2024. At that meeting, the Council agreed that Sense Scotland and The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association would be the primary beneficiaries of the Touch a Life, Make Difference initiative for 2025. Council also agreed that four further local beneficiaries would be chosen to share in the donations generated by the initiative, with a report submitted to this meeting of the Council to seek approval to those four beneficiaries. In addition, the report in November noted that a proposal for how the fundraising was to be shared between the beneficiaries would also be brought to that meeting of the Council. 3.3. Council agreed that nominations would be sought from Elected Members for the four further local beneficiaries, one beneficiary from each area (Clydesdale, Hamilton, East Kilbride and Cambuslang/Rutherglen). 6 25
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3.4. Further to this, at the Council meeting on 19 February 2025, the Council approved six further local beneficiaries, not four as agreed in November 2024. The beneficiaries were as follows:- Hamilton Churches Drop In Centre – nominated by Councillor Keatt Bothwell Futures – nominated by Councillor Devlin The Haven Centre, Forth – nominated by Councillor McClymont East Kilbride and District Dementia Carers Group – nominated by Councillor Watson Who Dares Cares – nominated by Councillor Hose Rutherglen Community Carers - nominated by Councillor Brown 3.5. At that meeting, the Council also agreed that a decision on the approach for the sharing of the donations generated by the initiative in 2025 be delegated to the Chief Executive, in consultation with the Provost and Group Leaders. 4. Proposal 4.1. Currently, the initiative has raised approximately £18K in 2025, mainly through the February Burns Supper. The Band Tour is being repeated this year, with one concert in Hamilton, on 25 October. On this basis, it is hoped that at least £20K will be raised in total. 4.2. There have been two recent developments in the use of the 2025 fundraising, which it is appropriate to report to the Council. 4.3. Firstly, on 14 August 2025, Sense Scotland contacted the Council to advise that they are partnering with Big Give as part of their Big Birthday Christmas Appeal campaign. Big Give is an online match-funding platform, matching donations to double the difference donors can make in support of charitable causes. Sense Scotland advised that they were asking all their donors to make a pledge before 29 August 2025, as all pledges would be doubled by their Big Give champions. 4.4. Whilst the Council does not yet know how much will be generated by the initiative in 2025, based upon the above, officers assessed that a pledge of £5K could be made to Sense Scotland, meaning they would receive £10K. Following consultation with the Provost and Group Leaders, the Chief Executive used the delegated authority granted by the Council in February 2025, to confirm a £5K pledge to Sense Scotland by the 29 August deadline, to enable the charity to take advantage of the match funding on offer to it. 4.5. Secondly, the Provost was contacted in September 2025 in respect of fundraising that Unison is undertaking to transport surplus gym equipment to Kharkiv in Ukraine. This is a joint initiative across both North Lanarkshire and South Lanarkshire Councils. Whilst the Council was not in a position to donate any surplus gym equipment, after having checked with South Lanarkshire Leisure and Culture, it was proposed that £500 be donated from the Touch a Life, Make a Difference initiative, as a contribution towards the transportation costs. 4.6. This proposed donation was made subject to its approval by the Council at this meeting of the Council. The Provost and Group Leaders were advised of the approach that was being taken. 4.7. As previously reported to Council, a decision on the final sharing of the donations generated by the initiative in 2025 will be taken later in the autumn, when the Council 26
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has greater clarity over the total sum available for distribution. As in 2024, an annual update on the work of the initiative will also be submitted to the 10 December 2025 meeting of the Council. 5. Employee Implications 5.1. The are no employee implications directly arising from this report, and the work on this initiative would be met from existing resources. 6. Financial Implications 6.1. The are no financial implications directly arising from this report, and the work on this initiative will be met from existing resources. 7. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 7.1. There are no climate change, sustainability and environmental Implications from this report. 8. Other Implications 8.1. There are no other implications from this report. 9. Integrated Impact Assessment and Consultation Requirements 9.1. This report does not introduce a new policy, function or strategy or recommend a change to existing policy, function or strategy and therefore no impact assessment is required. 9.2. There was also no requirement to undertake any consultation in terms of the information contained in this report. Jackie Taylor Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) 15 September 2025 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Accountable, effective, efficient and transparent Fair, open and sustainable Ambitious, self-aware and improving Previous References South Lanarkshire Council 31 January 2024 - Touch a Life, Make a Difference Initiative South Lanarkshire Council 20 November 2024 - Touch a Life, Make a Difference Update South Lanarkshire Council 19 February 2025 - Touch a Life, Make a Difference Update List of Background Papers None Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact:- Iain Strachan, Head of Administration and Legal Services Ext: 4516 (Tel: 01698 454658) Email: iain.strachan@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 27
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Agenda Item South Lanarkshire’s Climate Emergency Declaration Notice of Motion Motion received in terms of Standing Order No 21 on 15 September 2025, proposed by Councillor Kirsten Robb, seconded by Councillor Ross Clark, as follows:- “This council notes that: • The council agreed to a statement of intent in response to the climate emergency in September 2019, acknowledging the serious and immediate threat of climate change; reminding us of the need to accelerate our pace of delivering action; agreeing to set new timescales to meet or exceed the new national target for Scotland (net zero by 2045) and proposing that the Council calls upon its community planning partners, the business community, third sector, trades unions and local citizens to work collectively to accelerate action. • Now, 6 years later, the impacts of climate induced severe weather are being increasingly felt locally on our citizens, services, infrastructure and budgets. For Storm Eowyn, these include extra costs for the council for insurance of at least £0.803 million and for £0.395 million for Grounds and Roads works. The costs to citizens, businesses and community planning partners of recent storms and other climate impacts such as food price rises and supply have not been estimated but is likely to be increasingly significant. • Climate Emergency UK highlight that we have just 4 years to have a 67% chance of staying within the 1.5 degree threshold, beyond which devastating consequences for people and nature here and around the world are likely. They also note that South Lanarkshire Council has not yet declared an official climate emergency. • Acting faster to reduce carbon emissions and adapt to climate change will also bring additional benefits, explored further for South Lanarkshire at the Co Benefit Atlas website. For example, investing more in walking, cycling and reducing the need to travel will cut emissions from vehicles and improve health via cleaner air and increased physical activity. And investing more in retrofitting homes will reduce poverty and improve health. • The range of community climate action across South Lanarkshire as celebrated at the recent Lanarkshire Climate Action Festival, with over 100 events taking place from 8-21 September hosted by community groups, organisations and statutory agencies. The festival is an opportunity for both groups who are experienced in delivering climate action activities as well as those who are just beginning to incorporate climate into their activities. This council agrees to: • Declare that South Lanarkshire Council agrees that there is a climate emergency; reaffirms the need to accelerate local climate action, setting targets and detailing how we will align spend before the end of this term to contribute to national emission reduction targets, whilst achieving a just transition for our most vulnerable citizens. 8 29
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• Prepare a report to the Climate Change and Sustainability Committee on the increasing impact of climate induced severe weather such as extreme heat, storms and flooding on the council’s services and budgets, including what plans there are to mitigate these impacts and costs. • Take cognisance of the council’s Sustainability Impact Assessments and our duty under the Climate Change Act to act in a way best calculated to contribute to national carbon emission reduction targets. • Report back to Climate Change and Sustainability Committee on action that will be taken to reduce the impact of council events and catering by, but not limited to, use of reusable cups, hybrid events as default, promotion of sustainable travel, use of local and low carbon food and drink, including opportunities for third sector and local caterers, subject to compliance with council procedures. • Prepare a report to Climate Change and Sustainability Committee on how the council’s next 2027-2032 Climate Change and Sustainability Strategy can have input from local communities to help support the individual behaviour change required to achieve a just transition and thriving, liveable communities. • Encourage elected members to connect with the Lanarkshire Climate Action Hub, access case studies and information on different climate action themes, follow their social media accounts, subscribe to their newsletter and visit local groups taking climate action in their localities.” 30
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Agenda Item Review of the West of Scotland Road Safety Forum Guidance Notice of Motion Motion received in terms of Standing Order No 21 on 15 September 2025, proposed by Councillor Julia Marrs, seconded by Councillor Katy Loudon, as follows:- “Council notes that the Education (Scotland) Act 1980 places a duty on local authorities to provide school transport for walking distances greater than 3 miles for those over 8 years and 2 miles under 8 years. Council further notes that Scottish Government guidance on school transport from 2021 details that local authorities can go beyond this base criteria, and that when considering whether to make arrangements for the provision of school transport, local authorities are required to have regard to the safety of the pupil. Furthermore, Council understands that the Scottish Government guidance notes the wide level of discretion given to local authorities when making arrangements and expects; - local authorities to keep their criteria for providing school transport under review - local arrangements to be flexible - these arrangements to take into account factors, relative to the nature of the route, which might affect pupil safety, including availability of footways, subways, built up and wooded areas and adequate streetlighting. Council notes with regret the deep concerns of parents, carers and young people regarding pupil safety on walking routes assessed as safe following the Executive Committee’s majority decision to alter the qualifying distance for secondary school transport. Council understands that the current criteria for safe walking routes, outlined in the West of Scotland Road Safety Guidance, has not been updated for at least 20 years, despite significant changes in the road network, traffic volume and access to public transport in the interim. Council notes that members had previously been advised that a review of the guidance could not take place during the period of consultation, decision, and implementation of school transport changes. Now that these processes are concluded, Council instructs officers to conduct a review of the suitability of the West of Scotland Road Safety Forum guidance for its purposes, as recommended within the Scottish Government guidelines, and requests that a paper be brought to the Education Committee with recommendations for decision.” 9 31
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Agenda Item Closure of Cambuslang Jobcentre Notice of Motion Motion received in terms of Standing Order No 21 on 15 September 2025, proposed by Councillor Katy Loudon, seconded by Councillor Andrea Cowan, as follows:- “Council notes with deep concern the UK Government’s announcement on the proposed closure of Cambuslang Jobcentre, as one of two slated to close across the UK. Council deeply regrets that this decision was made without prior consultation with elected members, affected communities, service users, DWP unions, or employees – especially since the Jobcentre was saved from a proposed closure in 2017 after a widely-supported campaign, which successfully argued that a closure would have a hugely detrimental impact on local communities. Council understands that several hundred local residents have signed a petition against this new announcement, and that Cambuslang Community Council have called for a reversal of the Department for Work and Pension’s decision on a number of grounds, including the disproportionate impact it would have on vulnerable people, and those living in areas of deprivation. Council notes that Cambuslang Jobcentre is co-located with many other vital services within Cambuslang Gate such as health services, addiction recovery services, housing services, and social work. Further, Council notes that the Jobcentre is adjacent to one of our partner organisations, the award-winning employment champion Routes to Work South. Council understands that Routes to Work South supported over 1,600 local people* into employment last year alone through packages of tailored support and training, and believes that losing the geographic link between it and Cambuslang Jobcentre would be a great loss for both this organisation and the community. Council is also concerned by the loss of income to the Council should the DWP not extend their lease in this central town-centre location, and any further potential financial liabilities. As such, Council instructs the Chief Executive to write to the Department for Work and Pensions to state its opposition to the plans.” * Figure from page 4, Routes to Work South (2025) Annual Impact Report 2024-25, hard copy distributed at RTWS 20th Anniversary Celebration Event, Rutherglen Town Hall, 15th September 2025. 10 33
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