Agenda Document Pack - South Lanarkshire Council - 11/03/2026
South Lanarkshire Council · 11 March 2026
Back to South Lanarkshire Council — 11 March 2026 and its agenda
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Council Offices, Almada Street Hamilton, ML3 0AA Tuesday, 03 March 2026 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, 11 March 2026 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 10 December 2025 submitted for approval as a correct record. (Copy attached) 5 - 24 3 Minutes of Special Meeting Minutes of the special meeting of South Lanarkshire Council held on 25 February 2026 submitted for approval as a correct record. (Copy attached) 25 - 40 4 Minutes of Meeting of Risk and Audit Scrutiny Committee Minutes of the meeting of the Risk and Audit Scrutiny Committee held on 30 September 2025 submitted for noting. (Copy attached) 41 - 52 Item(s) for Decision 5 Proposed Update to Terms of Reference of the Appeals Panel and Grievance and Disputes Panel Report dated 18 February 2026 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources). (Copy attached) 53 - 56 6 South Lanarkshire Council Armed Forces Community Covenant Strategy – Annual Update Report dated 15 February 2026 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources). (Copy attached) 57 - 74 7 Notice of Motion - International Women's Day 2026 "Give to Gain" Motion received in terms of Standing Order No. 21 on 24 February 2026, proposed by Councillor Mary Donnelly and seconded by Councillor Andrea Cowan. (Copy attached) 75 - 76 8 Notice of Motion - After School Provision in South Lanarkshire Motion received in terms of Standing Order No. 21 on 24 February 2026, proposed by Councillor Joe Fagan and seconded by Councillor Lynsey Hamilton. (Copy attached) 77 - 78 Item(s) for Noting 9 Touch a Life, Make a Difference Initiative - Update Report dated 2 February 2026 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources). (Copy attached) 79 - 82 Urgent Business 10 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 Confero and in the Council Chamber, Council Offices, Almada Street, Hamilton on 10 December 2025 Chair: Depute Provost Bert Thomson 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 Janine Calikes, Councillor Andy Carmichael, Councillor Maureen Chalmers, Councillor Ross Clark, Councillor Gerry Convery, Councillor Poppy Corbett, Councillor Andrea Cowan, Councillor Margaret Cowie, Councillor Maureen Devlin, Councillor Colin Dewar, Councillor Monique Equi, Councillor Joe Fagan, Councillor Allan Falconer, Councillor Grant Ferguson, Councillor Gladys Ferguson-Miller, Councillor Elise Frame, Councillor Ross Gowland, Councillor Geri Gray, Councillor Celine Handibode, Councillor Graeme Horne, Councillor Martin Hose, 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 Richard Nelson, Councillor Carol Nugent, Councillor Norman Rae, Councillor Kirsten Robb, Councillor John Ross, Councillor Graham Scott, Councillor David Shearer, Councillor Helen Toner, Councillor Margaret B Walker, Councillor David Watson, Councillor Kirsty Williams Councillors' Apologies: Councillor Margaret Cooper (Provost), Councillor Mary Donnelly, Councillor Alistair Fulton, Councillor Lynsey Hamilton, Councillor Mark Horsham, Councillor Cal Johnston-Dempsey, Councillor Mo Razzaq Attending: Chief Executive’s Service P Manning, Chief Executive Community and Enterprise Resources D Booth, Executive Director; F Carlin, Head of Planning and Regulatory Services Education Resources L McRoberts, Executive Director Finance and Corporate Resources L O’Hagan, Head of Finance (Strategy); S Somerville, Administration Manager; I Strachan, Head of Administration and Legal Services; N Tollan, Administration Assistant, L Wyllie, Administration Assistant Housing and Technical Resources S Gibson, Executive Director Social Work Resources/Health and Social Care S Sengupta, Director, Health and Social Care Also Attending: Audit Scotland A Barclay, External Auditor 2 5
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Depute Provost’s Opening Remarks The Depute Provost:- referred to the recent death of Councillor Donnelly’s husband and, on behalf of the Council, wished to pass on sincere condolences to her at this sad time advised that he had agreed to accept a request, in terms of Standing Order No 4(c), for an Item of Urgent Business from Councillor Cowan, and this would be dealt with at the appropriate point in the meeting 1 Declaration of Interests No interests were declared. Councillor Ferguson-Miller joined the meeting during this item of business 2 Minutes of Previous Meeting The minutes of the meeting of South Lanarkshire Council held on 1 October 2025 were submitted for approval as a correct record. In response to a request from Councillor Loudon on an update in relation to Item 10 of the minutes, the Executive Director (Community and Enterprise Resources) confirmed that an initial meeting of the West of Scotland Road Safety Forum had been convened a few weeks ago and a schedule of further meetings had been arranged, commencing from January 2026. It had been agreed at the initial meeting that a review of the West of Scotland Road Safety Forum Guidance would be an item for discussion at a future meeting of the Forum. The Council decided: that the minutes be approved as a correct record. 3 Minutes of Petitions Committee The minutes of the meeting of the Petitions Committee held on 25 April 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 25 June 2025 were submitted for noting. The Council decided: that the minutes be noted. 5 South Lanarkshire Local Development Plan 3 Evidence Report A report dated 19 November 2025 by the Executive Director (Community and Enterprise Resources) was submitted seeking approval of the Evidence Report for the South Lanarkshire Local Development Plan 3 (LDP3) prior to its submission to the Scottish Ministers for consideration through the statutory Gate Check process. 6
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Local Development Plans (LDPs) guided land use and development within an area, identifying where new development, such as housing, business and infrastructure, would take place over the plan period. Alongside National Planning Framework 4 (NPF4), the LDP formed the statutory development plan against which all planning applications were assessed. The preparation of the Evidence Report had followed the statutory requirements set out in the Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act 1997 (the Act), associated Regulations and the Scottish Government Local Development Planning Guidance published in May 2023. Under the provisions of the Act, once approved, the Evidence Report must be submitted to Scottish Ministers for a Gate Check Review. A link to the LDP3 Evidence Report was provided, with paper copies available for members to access. The next steps in the process were outlined in Section 5 of the report. The Head of Planning and Regulatory Services responded to a member’s question in relation to processes in place in respect of the build of Council housing. The Council decided: (1) that the South Lanarkshire Local Development Plan 3 Evidence Report be approved; (2) that the Head of Planning and Regulatory Services be authorised to make any technical amendments or any necessary minor drafting changes to the Evidence Report and supporting documents prior to submission to Scottish Ministers for the Gate Check; (3) that the Head of Planning and Regulatory Services be authorised to respond to any request for further information or amendment to the Evidence Report or supporting documents as a result of the Gate Check process; and (4) that a report on the outcome of the Gate Check process be reported to a future meeting of the Planning Committee. [Reference: Minutes of the Executive Committee of 5 November 2025 (Paragraph 7)] 6 Outcome of Interim Polling Scheme Review A report dated 2 December 2025 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) was submitted providing an update on the outcome of the interim review of the Council’s Polling Scheme (the Scheme) and seeking approval of the draft Scheme. The Council completed its last statutory review in 2024. While interim reviews were not required under legislation, it was considered good practice to do so. In view of the Scottish Parliamentary Elections in 2026, and to ensure that the current Scheme remained fit for purpose, an interim review was considered appropriate. The intention was to ensure optimal facilities for voting in terms of location, accessibility and capacity of available buildings, as well as to support turnout in electoral events and the public’s participation in the democratic process. A public consultation exercise had been undertaken between 10 and 31 October 2025. Feedback received from voters and election staff at the June 2025 by-election was also considered. The Council had received 2 responses on the review, both of which were from voters. One response was appreciative of the decision to return to using Thankerton Hall as a polling place, and the other provided a positive response, with no specific comments. 7
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Given the short passage of time between the last statutory review, it had been assessed that there had been no material changes in respect of population projections for the purposes of this interim review. The current Scheme had 146 polling places, of which 78 were Council owned schools. To mitigate impact on senior school pupils and wider school communities, secondary schools were not used. It was highlighted that the date for the Scottish Parliamentary Elections in 2026 was to be an in- service day for all South Lanarkshire’s schools. Following the publication of the Scheme approved by the Executive Committee in December 2024, a number of representations had been received regarding polling places in Ward 3 – Clydesdale East. Those revisions, highlighted in the table at paragraph 5.2 of the report, had been reflected in the draft Scheme, attached as Appendix 1 to the report. The proposed draft Scheme had 151 polling places. In accordance with usual practice, should matters arise that might necessitate changes to the Polling Scheme in advance of the May 2026 elections, it was proposed that the Chief Executive, as Constituency Returning Officer, would use his delegated authority to take such actions as were considered appropriate. The Council decided: (1) that the contents of the report, including the outcome of the interim review of the Polling Scheme, be noted; (2) that the draft Polling Scheme, attached as Appendix 1 to the report, be approved; and (3) that authority be delegated to the Chief Executive to take all steps necessary to conclude matters relating to the interim Scheme review. [Reference: Minutes of the Executive Committee of 11 December 2024 (Paragraph 7)] 7 Proposed Update to Education Appeals Committee Terms of Reference A report dated 21 November 2025 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) was submitted requesting approval to amend the Terms of Reference in respect of the Education Appeals Committee. The Education Appeals Committee was established under Section 28 of The Education (Scotland) Act 1980 to hear appeals from parents and carers, and to decide whether the education authority had made the correct legal decision to turn down placing requests or exclude learners from schools in its area. Its current Terms of Reference referred to membership being drawn from Local Attendance Councils. The Council, however, no longer had Local Attendance Councils. In terms of the Council’s Scheme of Delegation, officers had delegated authority to appoint members of the Education Appeals Committee and it was, therefore, recommended that the Committee Terms of Reference be amended to reflect the legislation and remove reference to Local Attendance Councils, as detailed at paragraph 4.1 of the report. Subject to approval, officers would contact Parent Councils and reach out through social media to seek volunteers who might be interested in joining a pool of Education Appeals Committee members and who met the requirements of the 1980 Act. All such appointments would be subject to the satisfactory completion of pre-appointment checks and training. 8
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The Council decided: that the Terms of Reference of the Education Appeals Committee be amended, as set out in paragraph 4.1 of the report. [Reference: Minutes of 11 September 2024 (Paragraph 4)] 8 Notice of Motion – Investing in Housing and Investigating Rent Controls In terms of Standing Order No 21, a motion proposed by Councillor Robb, seconded by Councillor Cowan, was submitted as follows:- “Council notes the housing and budget challenges:- South Lanarkshire Council declared a Housing Emergency in June 2024 due to pressures on the housing and homeless service. Front line pressure on the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) with a recent stated backlog of 7000 repairs and cost increases due to storm damage and related insurance costs. Strategic pressure to meet social housing and homeless needs, energy efficiency objectives and adaptations for an ageing population. Challenges of tackling essential repairs and delivering improvements in mixed tenure blocks leading to deterioration of Housing Revenue Account (HRA) assets, increasing the cost of repairs, with the ultimate risk of demolition and resultant loss of housing supply. Private rents in South Lanarkshire averaged at £882 a month in September 2025. This was an increase from £829 in September 2024, a 6.4% rise (ONS). Council further notes:- Scottish Government’s Housing Investment Taskforce report recommends allowing council’s General Funds (GF) to invest in the HRA. The Housing (Scotland) Act includes important opportunities to address the above challenges including the ability for local authorities to propose private sector rent controls and, with ministerial consent if required, to decide to make use of the General Fund to support the HRA. Housing Associations Charitable Trust recent report highlights the added benefits and wider savings that social housing brings both to individual households but also to local authorities and national government. Council instructs Officers to produce the following reports for presentation at the Housing and Technical Resources Committee by Wednesday 3 June 2026. Domestic retrofit needs and estimated costs to meet any gaps in statutory energy efficiency requirements. Scale and estimated cost of outstanding repairs and disability adaptations to meet statutory requirements. Implications, actions and costs to deliver on Awaab’s Law and the Scottish Housing Quality Standard indicator to ensure properties are free of rising and penetrating damp. This should include an assessment of the number of residents living in council or council factored properties with rising or penetrating damp, how effective and timely the council is at responding to and resolving reports and complaints around these concerns and what action is being taken to ensure that future retrofit is done right, highlighting opportunities for any faulty insulation to be removed via the Cavity Insulation Guarantee Agency (CIGA). Annual report on the Housing Investment Programme. 9
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Investing in mixed tenure properties: Information on current grants, loans and payback periods for homeowners; uptake on grants and loans in the last three years and impact on the ability to complete work in mixed tenure properties; research with homeowners and from other councils to identify what action could increase uptake amongst owners. Set out the process and timescale to decide if South Lanarkshire Council wishes to implement private sector rent controls, including an assessment of the local rent market. Bring forward proposals in each of the above to fund these statutory requirements including from existing Housing managed funds, the General Fund and / or innovative public investment options, like Abundance.” In moving her motion, Councillor Robb referred to helping constituents by tackling damp housing and reducing bills via housing improvements or introducing private sector rent controls. In seconding the motion, Councillor Cowan highlighted that, while it was important to invest in new build, it was equally important to modernise and maintain existing housing stock to the highest standard, not only for the tenants but to ensure the longevity of the properties. Councillor McLachlan, as Chair of the Housing and Technical Resources Committee, while indicating his support for the motion, advised that suggestions could be brought to officials for consideration as future agenda items without the need for a formal process. The Council decided: that the terms of the motion be agreed and a report(s) to be submitted to the Housing and Technical Resources Committee by 3 June 2026 on:- domestic retrofit needs and estimated costs to meet any gaps in statutory energy efficiency requirements the scale and estimated cost of outstanding repairs and disability adaptations to meet statutory requirements implications, actions and costs to deliver on Awaab’s Law and the Scottish Housing Quality Standard indicator to ensure properties were free of rising and penetrating damp - this to include an assessment of the number of residents living in Council or Council factored properties with rising or penetrating damp, how effective and timely the Council was at responding to and resolving reports and complaints around those concerns and what action was being taken to ensure that future retrofit was done right, highlighting opportunities for any faulty insulation to be removed via the Cavity Insultation Guarantee Agency (CIGA) an annual report on the Housing Investment Programme investing in mixed tenure properties – information on current grants, loans and payback periods for homeowners; uptake on grants and loans in the last 3 years and impact on the ability to complete work in mixed tenure properties; research with homeowners and from other councils to identify what action could increase uptake amongst owners the process and timescale to decide if the Council wished to implement private sector rent controls, including an assessment of the local rent market 10
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proposals on how to fund those statutory requirements, including from existing Housing managed funds, the General Fund and/or innovative public investment options, such as Abundance 9 Notice of Motion – Downsizing Incentive Initiative In terms of Standing Order No 21, a motion proposed by Councillor Cowan, seconded by Councillor Dewar, was submitted as follows:- “Council acknowledges that there is a national and local housing emergency and while homelessness is a huge contributory factor, the shortage of larger family homes for social rent is also a serious cause for concern for Local Authorities. Council notes that there are around 205 applicants on South Lanarkshire’s housing waiting lists who are under-occupying their home while there are over 2,300 applicants waiting for a larger home with three or more bedrooms. Last year only 315 became available. In addition to those registered on our waiting lists, there are around 2,500 council tenants living in three or more bedroom homes that are technically too big for them. Council agrees that it is quicker and more cost effective to buy back ex-council homes than it is to build new and while we acknowledge that the Open Market Purchase Scheme has been very successful, more needs to be done to bring family homes back into our housing stock as quickly as possible. Council’s lack of larger family homes impacts families with children and directly affects our homelessness figures contributing to the overall Housing Emergency. To encourage tenants living in larger properties to downsize, Council agrees to the principle of creating an incentive scheme providing financial or practical assistance to those looking to downsize from their current 3 bedroom plus home to a one or two bedroom property. It is proposed that the Downsizing Incentive Scheme will apply to:- tenants with a Scottish Secure Tenancy moving to either another council tenancy or a Registered Social Landlord property tenants surrendering properties with three or more bedrooms tenants downsizing to a 1 or 2 bedroom property properties being surrendered under the scheme should be those for which there is a demand that the Council cannot meet Property types to be included:- detached semi detached mid and end terraced 4 in a block (upper and lower) Qualifying tenants downsizing as part of the scheme will be awarded an increased level of housing allocation points for each under-occupied bedroom. 11
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It is proposed that the incentive to downsize will either be a Monetary Payment of £500 or a package of Practical Assistance funded from the Housing Revenue Account, and to include:- assistance with packing personal belongings and delivery to new property help with removal and re-fitting of fixtures and fittings and decoration support with disconnection and re-connection of domestic appliances, telephone and satellite dishes mail re-direction for 3 months and help with change of address forms uplift and disposal of unwanted household items, or if required, provision and removal of skip facility Council instructs officers to prepare a report on the creation of a Downsizing Incentive Scheme to be presented for decision to the Housing and Technical Resources Committee on Wednesday 18 March 2026.” In moving her motion, Councillor Cowan referred to the housing crisis being inextricably linked to child poverty and how evidence showed that families living in temporary or overcrowded accommodation were impacted more than most. Councillor Dewar, in seconding the motion, referred to the ongoing housing pressures and how any initiative that looked to address that should be welcomed. Councillor McLachlan referred to the proactive practices that took place within Housing in terms of regular consultation between officers and tenants. Councillor Rae was heard in support of the motion. The Council decided: that the terms of the motion be agreed and a report be submitted to the Housing and Technical Resources Committee on 18 March 2026 on the creation of a Downsizing Incentive Scheme. Councillor Horne joined the meeting during this item of business 10 Notice of Motion – Local Authority of Sanctuary In terms of Standing Order No 21, a motion proposed by Councillor Cowan, seconded by Councillor McDougall, was submitted as follows:- “Council is deeply concerned by the rise in anti-migrant, racist rhetoric exhibited nationally and across the world. Council condemns all forms of discrimination, including racism, sectarianism, Islamophobia and antisemitism. We recognise current tensions within our communities and reaffirm our commitment to fostering an inclusive and cohesive South Lanarkshire where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. Council therefore reaffirms its commitment to:- 1. Reject all forms of hate and discrimination in our communities and across our services. 2. Work with our schools and education settings to make a proactive and sustained effort to tackle misinformation around this topic. 3. Promote inclusion, equality and respect through engagement that brings people together across all communities regardless of their differences, fostering unity and understanding. 12
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Council notes that the nationwide organisation, City of Sanctuary UK, coordinates, supports and grows networks of welcome for refugees and asylum seekers. It works with individuals, groups and organisations in every sector across the UK to encourage inclusivity, solidarity and compassion for people from a forced displacement background. The organisation’s Sanctuary Award recognises organisations who go above and beyond to welcome people seeking sanctuary. Consequently, Council agrees in principle to:- Join the City of Sanctuary Local Authority Network committing the Council to work towards the Council of Sanctury Award and agreeing to endorse the City of Sanctuary Charter. Submit an application within six months of joining the network to go through the award appraisal process in order to gain accreditation as a Local Authority of Sanctuary. The above being subject to a report on the Council joining the City of Sanctuary Local Authority Network being submitted to a future meeting of the Council or Executive Committee, and a decision being taken in respect of the same.” In moving her motion, Councillor Cowan referred to racist and bigoted rhetoric being on the increase, often being fuelled by misinformation. She considered that by becoming a local authority of sanctuary, the Council would be committing to be a place of safety, fairness and opportunity for all those who were seeking refuge from war, persecution and trauma. In seconding the motion, Councillor McDougall confirmed she echoed the sentiments expressed by Councillor Cowan. Councillors McGeever and Fagan were heard in support of the motion. The Council decided: (1) that the terms of the motion be supported and it be agreed, in principle, to:- join the City of Sanctuary Local Authority Network, committing the Council to work towards the Council of Sanctuary Award and agreeing to endorse the City of Sanctuary Charter submit an application within 6 months of joining the network to go through the award appraisal process in order to gain accreditation as a Local Authority of Sanctuary (2) that a report be submitted to a future meeting of the Council or Executive Committee for a decision on the above matter. 11 Notice of Motion – Bank of Scotland Closure, Larkhall In terms of Standing Order No 21, a motion proposed by Councillor Nelson, seconded by Councillor Clark, was submitted as follows:- “This Council notes with deep concern the planned closure of the Bank of Scotland Larkhall branch, the last remaining bank serving Larkhall, Ashgill, Netherburn, Stonehouse and other surrounding rural communities. Council recognises the significant social, economic, digital, transport, and wellbeing impacts that this closure will have on local residents and businesses, particularly those who are elderly, vulnerable, digitally excluded, or living in areas with some of the worst access deprivation in Scotland. 13
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Council further notes that the statistics and evidence referred to in this motion are drawn from the Larkhall Data Profile prepared by Clyde Gateway’s Supporting Families Programme, and from the Shaping Places for Wellbeing Programme (a partnership between the Improvement Service and Public Health Scotland), which together provide a robust, data-led picture of need and inequality in Larkhall and the surrounding communities. Council further notes:- 1. Transport and Access Inequality – 60% of residents in Ashgill and Netherburn live in the 15% most access-deprived areas in Scotland (Place and Wellbeing Outcomes, Clyde Gateway 2023). – Only 32% of households in Ashgill/Netherburn and 45% in central Larkhall are within a 10-minute walk of high-frequency public transport. – Travelling to alternative branches represents a major barrier, especially for elderly and rural residents. 2. Digital Divide – Only 81% of households in Ashgill and Netherburn have superfast broadband, compared to 94% across South Lanarkshire (Larkhall Data Profile). – Many residents rely on face-to-face banking and cannot simply transition to digital services. 3. Socio-Economic and Health Deprivation – Eight Larkhall data zones are within the 15% most deprived nationally. – Child poverty rates reach 31–34% in parts of the area. – The closure will disproportionately impact those already facing hardship. 4. Community Impact – Access to essential services is a core measure of the Scottish Government’s Place Principle and Place and Wellbeing Outcomes Framework. – Removing the last bank undermines community resilience, economic participation, and wellbeing. 5. Public Concern A well-attended public meeting raised serious concerns about: – pressure to switch to digital banking, – lack of public transport to alternative branches, – limited capacity at the Post Office, – concerns around fraud, accessibility, and business banking needs. 6. Community Mobilisation – The community petition has now surpassed 2,000 signatures, demonstrating significant public opposition to the closure and a clear demand for proper scrutiny and engagement. – A Larkhall Local Banking Task Force has also been established to gather evidence and represent community interests Council therefore resolves to:- 1. Formally oppose the closure of the Bank of Scotland Larkhall branch. 2. Recognise that the closure will worsen transport inequality, digital exclusion, rural isolation, and socio-economic hardship. 14
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3. Call on the Board of the Bank of Scotland to:- – Pause the closure; – Carry out an independent review of the social, economic, digital, and wellbeing impacts; and – Meet urgently with the Larkhall Local Banking Task Force to discuss community concerns and evidence directly. 4. Request the Council Leader and Chief Executive to write to the Bank of Scotland Board urging immediate engagement. 5. Instruct the Chief Executive to write to: – the Scottish Government, – the UK Government, – the Financial Conduct Authority, and – LINK (Access to Cash Review), noting that an application for a Bank Hub in Larkhall has already been refused, outlining the Council’s concerns and seeking external support for a full independent review. 6. Support the Local Banking Task Force in its work to defend financial inclusion and essential banking services for the people of Larkhall, Ashgill, Netherburn, Stonehouse and surrounding areas.” In moving his motion, Councillor Nelson referred to official data sources which highlighted the challenges that residents in the area faced. He considered that removing the only bank in the area would intensify the pressure for those most in need. He advised that, at a recent public meeting, issues were raised such as digital exclusion, transport barriers, limited Post Office capacity, and significant impacts on local businesses and charities in the local area. In seconding the motion, Councillor Clark referred to the difficulties and cost implications for constituents should the bank close. Councillor Fagan confirmed that, as Leader of the Council, he was content to write to the Bank of Scotland Board urging immediate engagement. He advised that he was willing to be part of discussions in relation to any assistance the Council could provide with alternatives to conventional banking to maintain financial inclusion for local people. Councillor Walker spoke on the broader point of the lack of accountability for banks and the need for a mechanism for them to be challenged by governments. The Council decided: (1) that the closure of the Bank of Scotland Larkhall branch be formally opposed; (2) that it be recognised that the closure would worsen transport inequality, digital exclusion, rural isolation and socio-economic hardship; (3) to call on the Board of the Bank of Scotland to:- pause the closure carry out an independent review of the social, economic, digital and wellbeing impacts meet urgently with the Larkhall Local Banking Task Force to discuss community concerns and evidence directly; (4) that the Council Leader and Chief Executive write to the Bank of Scotland Board urging immediate engagement; 15
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(5) that the Chief Executive write to the following, noting that an application for a bank hub in Larkhall had already been refused, outlining the Council’s concerns and seeking external support for a full independent review:- the Scottish Government the UK Government the Financial Conduct Authority LINK (Access to Cash Review) (6) to support the Local Banking Task Force in its work to defend financial inclusion and essential banking service for the people of Larkhall, Ashgill, Netherburn, Stonehouse and surrounding areas. 12 Notice of Motion – Public Access Defibrillators Policy and Guidance In terms of Standing Order No 21, a motion proposed by Councillor Clark, seconded by Councillor Donnelly, was submitted as follows:- “Council acknowledges the Scottish Government’s Out of Hospital Cardiac Arrest (OHCA) Strategy 2021 to 2026 which aims to increase the survival rates of OHCA in Scotland. Council notes that rapid commencement of Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and the use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is potentially crucial for those undergoing cardiac arrest, greatly increasing survival rates. Council commends local organisations, businesses, groups and communities who have already installed defibrillators in South Lanarkshire. However, Council recognises the need for further expansion of Public Access Defibrillators (PADs). Council therefore requests that officers develop a policy on the installation of PADs on council owned property with a view to supporting the installation of community owned and operated PADs on the outside of appropriate Council owned property. Council also requests that guidance is published on the installation of PADs on council and non-council owned property including advice on process, funding, installation and registration. Council subsequently requests that a report on this matter be brought to the Executive Committee for approval.” In moving his motion, Councillor Clark referred to the statistic of only 1 in 10 people who suffered an Out of Hospital Cardiac Arrest (OHCA) having survived. He highlighted that early use of Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and defibrillators was so important. In the absence of Councillor Donnelly, Councillor Shearer seconded the motion and referred to how PADs were vital for saving lives and should be readily available. The Council decided: (1) that the terms of the motion be agreed; (2) that a report be submitted to a future meeting of the Executive Committee in terms of a policy on the installation of Public Access Defibrillators (PADs) on Council-owned property, with a view to supporting the installation of community-owned and operated PADs on the outside of appropriate Council owned property; and 16
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(3) that guidance be published on the installation of PADs on Council and non-Council owned property, including advice on process, funding, installation and registration. In terms of Standing Order No 14, the Depute Provost adjourned the meeting during this item of business at 10.55am. The meeting reconvened at 11.05am 13 Notice of Motion – Review of Petitions Committee In terms of Standing Order No 21, a motion proposed by Councillor Clark, seconded by Councillor Frame, was submitted as follows:- “Council firmly believes in the principle of local residents having the ability to influence decision making on matters which affect them and their communities. Council acknowledges the importance of having a formal petitions system to this principle and the associated benefits to democratic engagement and public participation in local governance. However, Council regrets that the Petitions Committee has only considered a very limited number of petitions since its establishment. Further to this, Council recognises that improvements could be made to the existing petitions process. Council therefore requests that officers conduct a review of the effectiveness of the petitions process with a view to expanding democratic engagement. The review will consider factors such as the expansion of the criteria for petitions to be considered by the Petitions Committee and a greater promotion of the petitions system online and on social media. Council subsequently requests that a report be brought to the Executive Committee containing the outcomes of this review and recommendations for decision.” In moving his motion, Councillor Clark considered that local residents should have the ability to influence decision-making on matters that affected them and their communities. He believed that the Petitions Committee process was a form of accountability for the Council to members of the public and, therefore, should be strengthened via promotion on the website and social media. Councillor Frame, in seconding the motion, called for petitions to be used in tandem with consultations as an effective communication tool between constituents and the Council. Councillor Brown advised that the Liberal Democrat Group had been strongly in favour of establishing the Petitions Committee and would welcome a review, however, cautioned against changes that might lead to persistent submissions. The Council decided: (1) that the terms of the motion be agreed and a review of the effectiveness of the petitions process be undertaken, with a view to expanding democratic engagement by considering factors such as the expansion of the criteria for petitions to be considered by the Petitions Committee and a greater promotion of the petitions system online and on social media; and (2) that a report on the outcome of the review be submitted to a future meeting of the Executive Committee. 17
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14 Notice of Motion – Maintenance of Safe Walking Routes In terms of Standing Order No 21, a motion proposed by Councillor Frame, seconded by Councillor Loudon, was submitted as follows:- “Council notes the ongoing public interest around identified Safe Walking Routes to schools, particularly in areas where pupils have recently lost their entitlement to school transport due to changes to the qualifying distance. Council notes that there are areas where parents, carers and young people have or have had concerns over the conditions of existing infrastructure along Safe Walking Routes, and that a programme of work was carried out over the summer to address some of these. Thus, Council asks that robust relationships and communication between appropriate Education and Roads officers on these matters continues now that the changes to transport have been effected. Where identified Safe Walking Routes are in need of repair and/or maintenance, including ongoing maintenance of vegetation, Council asks that issues are promptly identified and rectified by the appropriate department – and that this is a year-round and preventative approach, and not just in times of inclement weather.” In moving her motion, Councillor Frame referred to the assessment for a particular route being undertaken during reasonable weather conditions, however, now in winter, the safe route was prone to flooding and icing over, and had recently been the scene of a car accident. Councillor Loudon, in seconding the motion, thanked officers for their support on the matter. She referred to a recent reference at Education Resources Committee that concerns relating to lighting, footpaths and vegetation, matters not covered by the current West of Scotland Road Safety Guidance, had been actioned on 51 separate walking routes, with some remedial works taking place over the summer. Councillor Robb was heard in support of the motion, referring to the attraction of external funding within her ward to improve a safe route to school, and highlighting the importance of Roads, Grounds Maintenance and Housing working together, and securing funding for maintenance. Councillor Fagan highlighted investment to date in maintaining footways/footpaths and the environment. The Council decided: that the terms of the motion be agreed. 15 Notice of Motion – 16 Days of Activism to End Gender Based Violence In terms of Standing Order No 21, a motion proposed by Councillor Donnelly, seconded by Councillor Clark, was submitted as follows:- “10 December marks the final day of 16 Days of Activism to end gender-based violence. The theme of this year’s campaign is: “UNITE TO END DIGITAL VIOLENCE AGAINST ALL WOMEN AND GIRLS”. Violence against women and girls affects one in three women. It is a global human rights emergency that must stop. As the World marks the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action - one of the most progressive international agreements on women’s rights to date - The UN Secretary General’s UNITE 2025 campaign focuses on one of the fastest-growing forms of abuse: Digital violence against women and girls. This year’s campaign is also a reminder that digital safety is central to gender equality. 18
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Council notes this year’s theme and recognises:- - Growing concern around online harassment, image-based abuse, and digital coercive control are increasingly reported by Scottish women, especially younger women and those in public life. - Scotland’s equally safe strategy which already frames violence as a cause and consequence of gender inequality. The 2025 campaign strengthens this by insisting that digital safety is now central to gender equality. Council notes with concern that digital violence is a growing threat in Scotland which is undermining women’s participation in democracy, education and employment. Council requests that Scottish Government and COSLA working as co-owners embed digital safety into the Equally Safe Strategy and national prevention frameworks and work with local authorities to implement locally. Council asks digital and education sectors to strengthen safeguards and promote digital literacy. Council notes that within South Lanarkshire the 2025 16 Day Campaign of Activism has been marked with visible community action and council leadership, aligning with the UNITE theme of ending digital violence against women and girls.” In the absence of Councillor Donnelly, Councillor Chalmers moved the motion and, in doing so, praised the work of Councillor Donnelly in highlighting the issue. She referenced the recently published Police Scotland performance report for Quarter 2 2025/2026 which highlighted that sexual crimes, rape, sexual assault crimes, online child sexual abuse and domestic abuse crimes had all increased. She advised that she had attended an event on Gender Based Violence Early Intervention and Prevention and was pleased that 5 secondary schools were signed up to Equally Safe at School, a national programme delivered by Rape Crisis. In seconding the motion, Councillor Clark considered it was important for men to speak out in relation to violence against women and girls and also for teaching boys to respect girls. He referred to online abuse being one of the fastest growing forms of abuse and, therefore, considered that perpetrators and online media companies should be held accountable. The Depute Provost, having been a previous Chair of the former Equal Opportunities Forum, highlighted how important the issue was. Councillor Fagan indicated his Group’s support for the motion and commended Councillor Donnelly for her commitment to work in this area. The Council decided: that the terms of the motion be agreed. Councillor Nelson left the meeting during this item of business 16 Notice of Motion – Rutherglen 900 In terms of Standing Order No 21, a motion proposed by Councillor Brown, seconded by Councillor Cowan, was submitted as follows:- “900th Anniversary of the Charter of the Royal Burgh of Rutherglen (1126-2026) This Council congratulates the people of the Royal Burgh of Rutherglen on the forthcoming 900th anniversary of the Royal Burgh Charter granted by King David 1 in 1126. 19
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South Lanarkshire Council is a Council which values the independence and identity of its Royal Burghs, Burghs and other local communities, not least Rutherglen. Council welcomes the financial and logistical support provided by South Lanarkshire Council, Clyde Gateway and other sponsors and supporters. Council further:- 1. Notes the work done by the Rutherglen 900 Steering Committee to develop a programme of arts, heritage, sporting, musical and environmental events across the various communities in Rutherglen. 2. Appreciates the work done by the Royal Burgh of Rutherglen Cenotaph Group to improve the Cenotaph and its surrounding area. 3. Welcomes the investment by the Council in restoration of the historic bandstand in Overtoun Park due to be completed in summer 2026. 4. Looks forward to the work being done and to be done by the Council, Leisure Trust and the local community to improve Rutherglen town centre and station. Looks forward to Rutherglen’s Nonocentenary leaving a legacy of enhanced community capacity and a renewed sense of identity and pride in the Royal Burgh.” Prior to moving the motion, Councillor Brown made a transparency statement to advise that he was Chair of Rutherglen 900, set up to commemorate the 900th Anniversary of The Royal Burgh of Rutherglen in 2026. He spoke on the history of the Burgh and advised that the launch event for the celebrations would take place on 29 January 2026, with a full programme of events on the website of Rutherglen900.com. In seconding the motion, Councillor Cowan made a transparency statement to advise that she was on the Steering Committee of Rutherglen 900. She thanked all those involved, in particular, the Depute Headteacher of Calderwood Primary School who had co- ordinated an excellent schools programme, with all of the local primary schools involved. Councillor Cowie was heard in support of the motion and congratulated the Steering Committee for all their hard work. The Council decided: that the terms of the motion be agreed. 17 Notice of Motion – Review of the Management of Trees In terms of Standing Order No 21, a motion proposed by Councillor Fagan, seconded by Councillor Brown, was submitted as follows:- “The Council notes the pressures on Community and Enterprise Resources, including the financial risks and the implications of ash dieback disease. The Council further notes community concerns about the height and maintenance of trees and the increasing prevalence of overmature trees across South Lanarkshire. The Council considers that following recent adverse weather events and, given the level of concern and potential areas of risk, it would be appropriate to review the Council’s approach to tree management. The Council therefore agrees to request a review of tree management and that the outcome of this review be reported to the Community and Enterprise Resources Committee for further consideration.” 20
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In moving the motion, Councillor Fagan highlighted the huge pressure that ash dieback was placing on the Council’s frontline services and the approach that was being taken in terms of tree planting to mitigate the impact of the loss of tree cover. He referred to tree management issues becoming more persistent due to adverse weather and underfunding of frontline services over a long period of time. In seconding the motion, Councillor Brown referred to the increase in constituents’ complaints relating to trees and the fact that, after the January storm, the Council’s arboriculture team had in excess of 800 trees to clear away which had impacted on other work. He highlighted the commitment to plant more trees and to replace those lost through ash dieback disease. The Council decided: that the terms of the motion be agreed and a review of tree management be undertaken, with the outcome to be reported to a future meeting of the Community and Enterprise Resources Committee for consideration. 18 Notice of Motion – Investment Challenge Paper In terms of Standing Order No 21, a motion proposed by Councillor Fagan, seconded by Councillor L McDonald, was submitted as follows:- “The Council notes that future Capital Investment Strategy is anticipated alongside capital budget proposals for the new financial year. The Council further notes that, despite a strong capital programme, the investment ambitions of the Council and our communities have exceeded the level of funding available over a number of years. The Council considers that the time has come for a Challenge Paper on infrastructure and investment to drive constructive challenge across local and central government and to help create a pipeline of credible options for investment for South Lanarkshire Council and our partners. The Council therefore agrees to the following recommendations:- 1. That an Investment Challenge Paper be brought forward for consideration at a future meeting of the Executive Committee. 2. That this Investment Challenge Paper set out investment ambitions for South Lanarkshire, drawing inspiration from the approaches previously adopted by the Scottish Government in developing an Infrastructure Investment Plan and by the Council in developing master plans for town centres and country parks. 3. That the Investment Challenge Paper sets out a series of investment options for the Council, our funders and partners that would enhance South Lanarkshire and contribute to the success of our Council Plan, Community Plan, Local Transport Strategy, Economic Strategy and other key strategies and objectives, such as developing Long Term Estate Strategy, action on the housing emergency, the transition to net zero and exploring commercial opportunities for the Council. 4. That the Investment Challenge Paper should not be limited to our Council’s ambitions to enhance our Capital Strategy, such as through the delivery of a replacement Blantyre Leisure Centre, but should extend to our ambitions for partnership and collaboration, such as the extension of the Larkhall rail line. 5. That in the development of the Investment Challenge Paper, council officials engage with potential partners and funders, such as the Scottish National Investment Bank, Glasgow City-Region, the Scottish Government, the Scotland Office and Strathclyde Pension Fund. 21
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That any pipeline of options and proposals arising from an Investment Challenge Paper be subject to review and scrutiny by the Executive Committee.” Councillor Fagan, in moving the motion, referred to the Council having to consider a capital investment strategy when it would decide on its budget in February 2026 and that the content of that strategy would be dictated by budget availability. He highlighted that the level of ambition exceeded the amount of funding available. He referred to projects that were, or could be, delivered by other parties/partners which were beneficial to the residents of South Lanarkshire. Councillor L McDonald, in seconding the motion, called for cross-party support on the matter. Councillor Robb, seconded by Councillor Chalmers, moved the following as an amendment, with changes highlighted in bold:- “That this Investment Challenge Paper sets out investment principles and ambitions for South Lanarkshire, drawing inspiration from the approaches previously adopted by the Scottish Government in developing an Infrastructure Investment Plan and by the Council in developing master plans for town centres and country parks. The principles of these Investment proposals should be founded on: Infrastructure first Right First Time decision making based on robust business cases Timely, quality public consultation The needs and aspirations of our communities That any pipeline of options and proposals arising from an Investment Challenge Paper be subject to review and scrutiny by the Executive Committee and /or an appropriate Resource Committee before final decisions are made.” In moving the amendment, Councillor Robb welcomed the ambition of the motion in securing investment for communities and advised that the terms of her amendment sought to enhance the guiding principles of those investment proposals. Councillor Chalmers, in seconding the amendment, considered that it strengthened the motion. Councillors Fagan and L McDonald confirmed their acceptance of the amendment. In response to a question from Councillor Shearer, Councillor Fagan confirmed that he envisaged that the mechanism for taking proposals forward would be set out by officials in the paper to be brought to a future meeting of the Executive Committee. The Council decided: (1) that the terms of the motion, as amended, be agreed and an Investment Challenge Paper be brought to a future meeting of the Executive Committee setting out:- investment principles and ambitions for South Lanarkshire, drawing inspiration from the approaches previously adopted by the Scottish Government in developing an Infrastructure Investment Plan and by the Council in developing master plans for town centres and country parks. Those investment proposal principles to be founded on:- infrastructure first right first time decision-making based on robust business cases timely, quality public consultation the needs and aspirations of our communities 22
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a series of investment options for the Council, its funders and partners that would enhance the area and contribute to the success of the Council Plan, Community Plan, Local Transport Strategy, Economic Strategy and other key strategies and objectives, such as developing long-term Estate Strategy, action on the housing emergency, the transition to net zero and exploring commercial opportunities for the Council the Council’s ambitions for partnership and collaboration, such as the extension of the Larkhall rail line (2) that, in developing the paper, officers to engage with potential partners and funders, such as the Scottish National Investment Bank, Glasgow City Region, the Scottish Government, the Scotland Office and Strathclyde Pension Fund; and (3) that any options and proposals arising from the Investment Challenge Paper to be subject to review and scrutiny by the Executive Committee and/or an appropriate Resource Committee before final decisions were made. 19 External Auditor’s Annual Report to South Lanarkshire Council A report dated 12 November 2025 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) was submitted on the External Auditor’s, Audit Scotland, Annual Report to the Council for 2024/2025. The Council decided: that the External Auditor’s Annual Report 2024/2025 to the Council be noted. [Reference: Minutes of the Risk and Audit Scrutiny Committee of 30 September 2025 (Paragraph 4)] 20 Item of Urgent Business – Scotland Qualifying for the 2026 World Cup In terms of Standing Order No 4(c), the Depute Provost decided that consideration be given to the following motion proposed by Councillor Cowan, seconded by Councillor Dewar, as a matter of urgency:- “Council celebrates the outstanding achievement of the Scotland Men’s national football team, led by Steve Clarke, in qualifying for the 2026 World Cup Finals, ensuring Scotland's participation for the first time since 1998. Council particularly notes the contribution made by South Lanarkshire raised Kenny McLean in scoring the spectacular last-minute goal that secured qualification. Council requests that the Provost write to Steve Clarke and the playing squad wishing them every success in June.” In moving the motion, Councillor Cowan referred to a boost for the country in being part of the World Cup Finals. Councillor Dewar seconded the motion. The Council decided: that the terms of the motion be agreed and the Provost, or Depute Provost, write to Steve Clarke and the playing squad wishing them every success in June. Depute Provost’s Closing Remarks The Depute Provost referred to the forthcoming retirement of David Booth, Executive Director (Community and Enterprise Resources) and, on behalf of the Council, thanked David for all his hard work, support and commitment to the Council. 23
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Councillors Clark, Brown, Allison and Fagan spoke, in turn, to record their thanks and appreciation to David. The Depute Provost concluded the meeting by thanking everyone for their attendance and wishing them the compliments of the season. 24
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SOUTH LANARKSHIRE COUNCIL Minutes of the special meeting held via Confero and in the Council Chamber, Council Offices, Almada Street, Hamilton on 26 February 2026 Chair: Depute Provost Bert Thomson 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 Janine Calikes, Councillor Andy Carmichael, Councillor Maureen Chalmers, Councillor Ross Clark, Councillor Gerry Convery, Councillor Poppy Corbett, Councillor Andrea Cowan, Councillor Margaret Cowie, Councillor Maureen Devlin, Councillor Colin Dewar, Councillor Mary Donnelly, Councillor Monique Equi, Councillor Joe Fagan, Councillor Allan Falconer, Councillor Grant Ferguson, Councillor Gladys Ferguson-Miller, Councillor Elise Frame, Councillor Alistair Fulton, Councillor Ross Gowland, Councillor Geri Gray, Councillor Lynsey Hamilton, Councillor Celine Handibode, Councillor Graeme Horne, Councillor Mark Horsham, Councillor Martin Hose, Councillor Cal Johnston-Dempsey, Councillor Gavin Keatt, Councillor Susan Kerr, Councillor Ross Lambie, Councillor Martin Lennon, 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 Kirsten Robb, Councillor John Ross, Councillor Graham Scott, Councillor David Shearer, Councillor Helen Toner, Councillor Margaret B Walker, Councillor David Watson, Councillor Kirsty Williams Councillors' Apologies: Councillor Margaret Cooper (Provost), Councillor Richard Lockhart, Councillor Richard Nelson Attending: Chief Executive’s Service P Manning, Chief Executive Community and Enterprise Resources K Carr, Executive Director Education Resources L McRoberts, Executive Director Finance and Corporate Resources J Taylor, Executive Director; S Somerville, Administration Manager; I Strachan, Head of Administration and Legal Services; N Tollan, Administration Assistant Housing and Technical Resources S Egan, Head of Housing Services Social Work Resources/Health and Social Care S Sengupta, Director, Health and Social Care Depute Provost’s Opening Remarks The Depute Provost welcomed Kevin Carr to his first meeting of the Council in his capacity as Executive Director (Community and Enterprise Resources). 3 25
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1 Declaration of Interests Prior to inviting declaration of interests, the Head of Administration and Legal Services, as Monitoring Officer, reminded elected members of restrictions on voting in setting the level of Council Tax in the event that any member present was in arrears with payment of Council Tax which had remained unpaid for at least 2 months or had outstanding bills for Community Charge/Poll Tax. Any person who failed to comply would be guilty of an offence. The following members made connection and transparency statements in relation to Item 3, Overall Position of Revenue Budget and Level of Local Taxation for 2026/2027:- Councillor Marrs stated that her connection, in relation to EDR03, was in a personal capacity on the basis of a family member benefiting from the instrumental music service. If this particular saving was discussed in detail, then she would declare an interest at that point Councillor Frame stated that her connection, in relation to EDR03, was in a personal capacity on the basis of a family member benefiting from the instrumental music service. If this particular saving was discussed in detail, then she would declare an interest at that point 2 Recommendations Referred by Executive Committee – Housing Revenue and Capital Account Budget 2026/2027 A report dated 4 February 2026 by the Chief Executive was submitted on the recommendations which had been referred to the Council by the Executive Committee of 4 February 2026 in relation to the Housing Revenue and Capital Account Budget 2026/2027 and the outcomes of the associated public consultation, as referred to at Section 8 of the report. The recommendations were as follows:- Housing Revenue and Capital Account Budget 2026/2027 that the proposed rent increase of 6.50% to be applied in 2026/2027 to all council houses, Gypsy/Traveller sites, lock-ups and garage sites and the revenue estimate proposals for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA), as detailed in Appendix 1 to the report to the Housing and Technical Resources Committee, be approved that the proposed increase in charges applied for the provision of close cleaning and laundry services of 6.50% in 2026/2027 be approved that the proposal that a 15% premium be added to all new build rent charges that were let either on, or after, 1 April 2026, reflecting the increased energy efficiency measures within those properties and to support the continuing new build programme, as detailed in paragraph 3.6 of the report to the Housing and Technical Resources Committee, be approved that, based on the rent increase of 6.50%, the 2026/2027 Housing Capital Programme of £90.434 million, as detailed in Appendix 2 to the report to the Housing and Technical Resources Committee, be approved The Council decided: that, having had due regard to the assessments contained in the Integrated Impact Assessments relating to the proposals and the outcomes of the associated public consultation, the recommendations of the Executive Committee of 4 February 2026 in relation to the Housing Revenue and Capital Account Budget 2026/2027 be approved. [Reference: Minutes of the Executive Committee of 4 February 2026 (Paragraph 6) and Minutes of the special meeting of the Housing and Technical Resources Committee of 21 January 2026 (Paragraph 2)] 26
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3 Overall Position of Revenue Budget and Level of Local Taxation for 2026/2027 A report dated 4 February 2026 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) was submitted on:- the 2026/2027 budget position, following the Local Government Settlement for 2026/2027, and the 3 Year Budget Strategy the proposed Revenue Budget for 2026/2027, including the base budget allocations to Resources At the Executive Committee on 5 November 2025, an update to the Budget Strategy was presented which revised the 2-year Budget Gap to £36.315 million. The Council received its grant settlement for Revenue and Capital on 13 January 2026. The Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) highlighted the main elements of the budget process to date, including:- the impact of the Local Government Settlement, as outlined in Section 4 of the report options to address the Budget Gap for 2026/2027, as outlined in Section 5 of the report funds available for one-off investment, as outlined in Section 6 of the report a Revenue Budget summary and a proposal for a balanced budget for 2026/2027, as outlined in Section 7 of the report details of the Budget Bill and Local Government Finance Order, as outlined in Section 8 of the report information on the potential impact of savings beyond 2026/2027, as outlined in Section 9 of the report Councillor Fagan, seconded by Councillor Chalmers, proposed the following amendment, which had been agreed by those Groups which had participated fully in the cross-party Budget Working Group:- “As an amendment to Item 2 ‘Overall Position of Revenue Budget and Level of Local Taxation for 2026/2027’, the Council is asked to approve the following recommendation(s): (1) that the 3 Year Budget Gap of £41.301 million including the impact of the Local Government Settlement (paragraph 4.11), be noted; (2) that the amount of savings of £4.503 million as shown in this amendment and the level of Council Tax increases of 6.5%, be agreed ; (3) that the options for Investment monies in the 2026/2027 Budget detailed in this amendment be agreed; (4) that the assumptions detailed at paragraph 7.2, used to arrive at the balanced Budget presented in Section 7, be noted; (5) that the budget figures detailed at Section 7 (based on the assumptions in paragraph 7.2) are to be updated following agreement of the Budget, be noted; (6) that the potential impact of savings beyond 2026/2027 (Section 9), be noted; (7) that the Revenue Budget for 2026/2027, including the base budget allocations to Resources, as shown in Appendix 2 be approved, subject to Members’ decision on recommendations 2 and 3; and (8) that the Council has considered and given due regard to the assessments contained in the Integrated Impact Assessments relating to the proposals in this report, and the outcomes of the associated public consultation (section 14), be noted. 27
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Savings agreed: It is proposed that the savings outlined below totalling £4.503 million be agreed. Saving Ref. Description Value £m M&O01 Procurement Review 1.043 M&O02 Overtime Review 0.991 M&O03 Organisational and Management Structures Review 0.900 M&O04 Council Charges 0.200 M&O05 South Lanarkshire Leisure and Culture Utilities 0.500 M&O06 Annual Increase to Planning and Building Warrant Fees 0.172 M&O07 Digital Transformation Review 0.030 M&O08 Customer Engagement Review 0.048 M&O09 Development Team 0.054 CER12 Planning - Introduction of Fees 0.100 EDR04 Youth, Family and Community Learning (YFCL) 0.465 Total 4.503 Council Tax Increase: A council tax increase of 6.5% is proposed. At this level of Council tax, South Lanarkshire is expected to still have the lowest level of Council Tax in Scotland. This is a Budget for People and Place in South Lanarkshire. It will invest in the environment that we live in; it provides for growth in the businesses that choose to work from here; it invests in our schools and young people; and it supports our communities and their local culture and identities. This budget unlocks new levels of investment and also ensures we provide a solid basis to balance budgets in future years without the need for bigger cuts to the services that are important to our communities. Investments: The following additions to the recurring revenue budget are proposed as recurring revenue expenditure (detail shown in Appendix 1). Spend on our Grounds Service 1.700 Reinstating a second hedge cut 0.144 Expand Business grants 0.400 Free swim for under 16s 0.250 Addition to devolved school budget 0.500 Funds to third sector 0.300 Reinstate citizens advice funding 0.040 Galas and festivals fund 0.200 Total £3.534m 28
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The following are recommended priorities for one-off investment. Note that larger scale expenditure would be incurred over multiple years. Details shown in Appendix 1. Investment in environment and infrastructure 12.000 Supporting and developing Local Business 3.500 Investing in energy efficiency 1.000 Estate improvements 0.500 Care Experienced Young People: Accommodation 0.500 Visual equipment for schools 2.100 Additional Support Needs school estate improvements 0.500 Country Parks 7.300 Outdoor Investment 4.000 Local Action Fund 1.000 Culture Strategy 0.800 Community Engagement Team 0.100 Total £33.300m A Balanced Budget Reconciliation template is attached in Appendix 2. Integrated Impact Assessment The Council needs to comply with an increasing number of similar, but different, rights- based statutory duties. It has been agreed that the Council will adopt an integrated impact assessment approach to ensure the Council carries out the necessary assessments, and in a consistent, but proportionate, manner with all relevant legal duties being considered, and importantly that these will all be assessed at the same time. It will also identify any suitable mitigations to support implementation of a particular proposal. It has been agreed that this approach will be applied to any Budget Amendments as part of the budget setting process. An IIA will be carried out for the proposals in this paper following the budget meeting. 29
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Appendix 1 Proposed Investments – Recurring - £3.534 million Spend on Grounds Services - £1.700 million This investment, equivalent to the income generated from 1% of the increase in Council Tax, will allow more spend on the environment we live in. This recurring spend will mean more front-line workers, working to make our communities look, feel and be better for people and nature. Reinstate Second Hedge Cut - £0.144 million In addition to the increase on Grounds services, specifically we will reinstate a second hedge cut each year. A paper will be brought back to Committee on the proposals. Expand Business Grants - £0.400 million This recurring investment will allow us to increase the support grants we offer to local business from £5,000 to up to £20,000. This will take our grants budget to £0.500 million and will also allow us to offer more grants. Free Swims for Under 16s - £0.250 million We will offer free “turn up and go” swimming to all our under-16s at South Lanarkshire Leisure and Culture pools, subject to agreement of the SLLC Board. Addition to Devolved School Budget - £0.500 million This will provide for extra devolved school classroom budget for all our schools in South Lanarkshire, increasing the ability for schools to provide essential supplies and equipment and learning experiences including outdoor learning, and also resources and supplies required for children with additional support needs. Funds for Third Sector - £0.300 million Building on the Third Sector Agreement and our commitment to work to make South Lanarkshire the best environment for the local third sector to operate in Scotland, we will put permanent funding in to provide security of funds for the sector. We will continue to work with the sector to build on this investment to boost funding available. Reinstate Citizens Advice Funding - £0.040 million In addition to the additional funds for Third Sector, we will look to reinstate the Citizens Advice Bureau funding to previous levels, removing the planned reduction in 2026/2027. Galas and Festivals Fund - £0.200 million We recognise that each community has its own history, identity and traditions. The investment ensures an equitable approach to grant funding for these local events. 30
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One Off Investment - £33.300 million Investment in Environment and Infrastructure - £12.000 million This investment will build the foundations for the recurring spend on our environment we are making as part of this budget. As part of this one-off investment, we will look to improve our roads infrastructure, including street columns, pedestrian crossings, and bridges. We will look at improving our open spaces including our contribution to tree planting. We will look to improve signage in our communities with new levels of investment in that area. We will look to build on the investment made in previous budgets to improve walking routes, including upgrading underpasses, to ensure people in our communities feel safer when walking and we will look to improve areas prone to flooding through enhanced gully cleaning. Supporting and Developing Local Business - £3.500 million This investment will allow us to offer higher value grants for businesses to upgrade commercial stock in South Lanarkshire. Using £1m of funding, this could include funding around decarbonising commercial stock and keeping businesses within South Lanarkshire. We will also invest to meet the demand for commercial space, using £2m to pay for the costs to fund the development of these spaces which will become self-financing when operational and generating rental income. This funding will enable investment in excess of £11m in commercial properties for use by business in South Lanarkshire. The Council will also improve its own business centres (£0.5m). Investing in Energy Efficiency - £1.000 million Investment to expand the energy efficiency programme (CEEF - Central Energy Efficiency Fund) investing to improve energy efficiency in Council facilities and allowing a recurring investment pot to deliver future projects. Estate Improvements - £0.500 million Investing in the areas around our housing estate, improving the environment including drying areas, railings, and waste and recycling. Care-Experienced Young People: Accommodation (The Promise) - £0.500 million Through investing in accommodation units, this would support delivery of The Promise by enabling young people to gain experience of living independently prior to moving to their own home. Visual Equipment for Schools - £2.100 million This will allow visual equipment to be replaced and updated to ensure all of our schools across South Lanarkshire have the modern equipment they need to deliver quality education to our young people. 31
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Additional Support Needs School Estate Improvements - £0.500 million Provision for secondary aged young people within Sanderson High School and Rutherglen High School will be improved, providing adaptations to ensure the needs of young people are sufficiently met, including accommodating increased wheelchair use, and requirements for feeding and personal care. The investment will enable works to be completed at both sites and also facilitate adaptations to a current secondary SEBN Base to support planned changes for learners. Country Parks - £7.300 million Investment will allow for proposals from the two country park masterplans to be progressed. Projects include Chatelherault playpark expansion. Also, car parking and active travel routes at Calderglen will be progressed, including enhanced roads, wayfinding and lighting. Outdoor Investment - £4.000 million We will invest in outdoor spaces to make them more accessible to our communities. This will include investment to accelerate MUGAS replacements, including in schools and look to bring unused spaces back into use. Proposals for investments will be brought to Committee for approval. Local Action Fund - £1.000 million Building on last year’s investment in all wards, we will provide for £50k per ward. A paper will be brought to a future Committee to agree the parameters of the fund and how it will operate, focussing on community plans and priorities and working with communities and local members to identify projects to be approved by the Executive Committee. Culture Strategy - £0.800 million We recognise that each town and village in South Lanarkshire has its own identity. This funding will provide for local community led activities and events sharing and celebrating heritage, local history, arts and culture. This work will facilitate the development of a place based, culture strategy which also recognises the role of libraries and museums in our communities. Community Engagement Team - £0.100 million This investment will allow for an additional community engagement officer, helping our communities, including organisations looking to progress community asset transfers. 32
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Appendix 2 Balanced Budget Reconciliation Budget Gap / (Surplus) from Officers’ Report (Section 4.11 / Table 1) (£1.518m) Agreed Savings: £m M&O01 Procurement Review (1.043) M&O02 Overtime Review (0.991) M&O03 Organisational and Management Structures Review (0.900) M&O04 Council Charges (0.200) M&O05 South Lanarkshire Leisure and Culture Utilities (0.500) M&O06 Annual Increase to Planning and Building Warrant Fees (0.172) M&O07 Digital Transformation Review (0.030) M&O08 Customer Engagement Review (0.048) M&O09 Development Team (0.054) CER12 Planning - Introduction of Fees (0.100) EDR04 Youth, Family and Community Learning (YFCL) (0.465) Total Savings (A) (4.503) Proposed Council Tax Increase 6.5% (every 1% generates £1.718 million) (11.168) = Total Savings and Increase from Council Tax (15.671) Budget (Surplus) / Gap After Savings and Council Tax (17.189) Add: Recurring Revenue Investments: Spend on our Grounds Service 1.700 Reinstating a second hedge cut 0.144 Expand Business grants 0.400 Free swim for under 16s 0.250 Addition to devolved school budget 0.500 Funds to third sector 0.300 Reinstate citizens advice funding 0.040 Galas and festivals fund 0.200 Total Recurring Revenue Investments Proposed (B) 3.534 (Budget Surplus) / Budget Gap Before One- Off Investments (13.655) 33
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Add: One-Off Investments (Revenue or Capital) Investment in environment and infrastructure 12.000 Supporting and developing Local Business 3.500 Investing in energy efficiency 1.000 Estate improvements 0.500 Care Experienced Young People: Accommodation 0.500 Visual equipment for schools 2.100 Additional Support Needs school estate improvements 0.500 Country Parks 7.300 Outdoor Investment 4.000 Local Action Fund 1.000 Culture Strategy 0.800 Community Engagement Team 0.100 Balancing 2027/2028 (1.341) Total One-Off Investments (Revenue or Capital) (C) 31.959 Less: One-Off Funding Available (Revenue) (see section 6) (18.304) Less: One-Off Funding Available (Capital) (0.000) Budget Gap – this should be zero 0.000 Restatement of Net Expenditure Figure (report section 7.4) Net Expenditure Figure within Revenue Budget Paper (sections 7.4 and associated appendices) £1,069.307m Less Assumed Level of On-Off Investments (section 7.2) (£1.518m) Less One-Off Funding Available already in budget (section 6) (£12.065m) Adjusted Net Expenditure Figure (before savings) £1,055.724m Deduct: Actual Savings Taken from Table above (A) (£4.503m) Add: Any Further Investment Proposed (B and C from Table above) £35.493m Revised Net Expenditure figure for Revenue Budget (D) £1,086.714m Restatement of Net Sum Funded by Council Tax (Table 3, report section 7.4) Revised Net Expenditure Figure for Revenue Budget for 2026/2027 (D from Table above) £1,086.714m Deduct: Government Grant (£876.284m) Deduct: Use of Reserves / Underspends in the Budget Strategy (£25.939m) = Resultant Net Sum to be Funded Locally from Council Tax £184.491m 34
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At the invite of the Depute Provost, the Leader of the Council spoke on his proposals. He advised that the amendment was supported by Labour, SNP, Liberal Democrats, Independent and Green councillors following the conclusion of the cross-party Budget Working Group talks this week. He said that the consensus budget being presented reflected both the compromises that had been made and the common ground that had been reached, for the greater good of South Lanarkshire. He wished to thank all those members who had taken part and the officials who had supported the process, as well as the people and stakeholders who had been consulted and who had helped shape the proposals. He also thanked those councillors who felt that they could not support this budget today. While disagreeing with the conclusion they had reached, he respected their input through the cross-party Budget Working Group. He referred to the challenges faced as a local authority and as a society, including the demand for services, the complexity of need, the nature of inequality and the legacy of under investment. He advised that the package of savings accepted totalled £4.5 million, with no cuts to frontline services. He considered that the proposed 6.5% rise in Council Tax was required and highlighted that South Lanarkshire remained on course to again have one of the lowest levels of Council Tax in Scotland. He said that the proposals would reduce a 3-year Budget Gap and would do so while making recurring and targeted investment in the Council’s services and communities. He highlighted recurring investment of £3.534 million, as well as the substantial one-off investments totalling £33.300 million, and spoke on the content of them. In concluding, he considered that the budget for ‘People and Place’ would deliver on the shared priorities of the different political groups, increase the Council’s frontline workforce, invest in South Lanarkshire’s surroundings and help to build community wealth. In seconding the amendment, Councillor Chalmers referred to councillors having a statutory duty to set a balanced budget to ensure the financial viability of the Council and, at the same time, trying to meet the needs and aspirations of residents, communities and businesses. She referred to difficult, challenging times, particularly with the cost-of-living crisis. She said that her Group had committed to participate in the cross-party Budget Working Group in a constructive and collaborative way to best serve the people of South Lanarkshire. She advised that it had been a positive experience to work with the different political groups to find shared priorities. She wished to thank the Chief Executive, the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) and her team, the Head of Communications and Strategy and the Corporate Management Team for all the support provided throughout the process. She acknowledged that discussing the level of Council Tax was difficult, as elected members were mindful of the financial pressures on households, however, considered that there was a need to invest in, and improve, services which mattered most to people. She highlighted that the budget was about having clean, safe streets, connected communities and enriching learning environments. Councillor Brown wished to recognise the constructive approach by political groups to the budget process, led by the Leader of the Council. He also wished to thank officials for their support. He considered that the budget proposals were good for South Lanarkshire, its people and its communities, with all parties contributing ideas. 35
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He referred to years of under investment due to financial challenges and was pleased with the level of investment in this budget, particularly in relation to the Third Sector due to the need and demand in today’s society. He concluded by stating that the way to restore public trust was by delivering visible improvements in public services, while always focusing on the efficient and effective use of resources. Councillor Watson thanked the Council Leader for facilitating the cross-party Budget Working Group and to all the political groups which had worked together to make positive contributions in preparing the budget proposals. He also wished to thank the Chief Executive and his officials for their support. He particularly welcomed the investment in education and the targeting of resources to improve the environment. Councillor Robb referred to a decade of national austerity, with low or no Council Tax increases. She highlighted that residents wanted clean streets, buildings, and parks and paths that were maintained, as well as services and supports that met their needs. She thanked other political groups for their contributions in the budget process and the support of officials. Councillor Allison referred to his Group taking part in the cross-party Budget Working Group over a number of years and, in most of those years, had managed to come to an agreement. He considered this year should have been straightforward, with no increase in Council Tax needed or cuts to get a balanced budget. He expressed concerns over the 3-year forecast which showed a significant deficit. He referred to the extra funding available in the short-term and advised that his Group had no objection to the spending choices within the budget amendment and recognised that, due to longer-term issues, some form of Council Tax rise would be acceptable. He considered, however, that it was important not to create larger budget gaps for future years. He welcomed the fact that this Council had one of the lowest Council Tax levels in Scotland but was concerned that would not be the case in future years in order to achieve a balanced budget. He advised that, while his Group had agreed with much of the budget amendment, it would not be supporting it and wished his Group’s objections to the format of the budget noted. In response to Councillor Allison’s point on the Budget Gap, Councillor Fagan advised that the £41.3 million 3-year Budget Gap on the amendment was the figure that was in the paper and would change as a result of the decisions that the Council was being asked to agree to today. He considered that it was not prudent to put recurring costs against one-off expenditure and that a balance had to be struck. He advised that there were £4.503 million worth of savings that were being accepted in the amendment, with only £3.534 million of recurring investments. He highlighted that next year, making no assumptions in terms of Council Tax, the cumulative savings target would fall from £23 million to just under £10 million. He advised that the budget amendment would build sustainable finances for the future of South Lanarkshire. Councillors Razzaq and Gray were heard in support of the budget amendment. As no-one had moved the officer’s recommendations, the amendment, moved by Councillor Fagan and seconded by Councillor Chalmers, was now considered as the motion. The Depute Provost, while acknowledging that the Conservative Group had indicated it was not supporting the motion, sought confirmation from all other members who unanimously confirmed their agreement to the motion. The Council decided: (1) that the 3-year Budget Gap of £41.301 million, including the impact of the Local Government Settlement detailed at paragraph 4.11, be noted; (2) that the amount of savings of £4.503 million, as outlined in the amendment, and the level of Council Tax increase of 6.5%, be agreed; 36
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(3) that the options for investment monies in the 2026/2027 Budget, as detailed in the amendment, be agreed; (4) that the assumptions detailed at paragraph 7.2, used to arrive at the balanced Budget presented in Section 7, be noted; (5) that it be noted that the budget figures detailed at Section 7, based on the assumptions in paragraph 7.2, would be updated to reflect the agreed Budget; (6) that the potential impact of savings beyond 2026/2027, detailed at Section 9, be noted; (7) that the Revenue Budget for 2026/2027, including the base budget allocations to Resources, as detailed in Appendix 2 of the report, be approved, subject to Members’ decision on recommendation 2 and 3; and (8) that it be noted that the Council had considered and given due regard to the assessments contained in the Integrated Impact Assessments relating to the proposals in this report, and the outcome of the associated public consultation detailed at Section 14. [Reference: Minutes of the Executive Committee of 5 November 2025 (Paragraph 9)] 4 2026/2027 Capital Programme Update and Future Capital Investment Strategy A report dated 10 February 2026 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) was submitted:- on the proposed General Services Capital Programme for 2026/2027, reflecting the spend requirements identified by Resources and the availability of funding proposing a Capital Investment Strategy that would help shape future annual capital programmes The proposed Capital Programme for 2026/2027 was based on the level of funding available in- year which was covered at Section 4 of the report and included details of the Council’s grant allocations received as part of the Local Government Finance Settlement received on 30 January 2026. The total funding available for the 2026/2027 Capital Programme was £105.247 million, details of which were provided in Appendix 1 to the report, with specific projects listed at Appendix 2 to the report. In addition to core projects, the Council had major capital investment plans for the years to 2030. A graphic representing this investment was attached as Appendix 3 to the report. This reflected the Council’s ambitious Capital Investment plans for the coming years. The key issues and risks that would impact on the delivery of the Capital Strategy, how the Capital Strategy and Treasury Management Strategy were aligned, and the governance framework required to ensure the Capital Strategy could be delivered, had been updated for 2026/2027 and were detailed in Appendix 4. An Integrated Impact Assessment had been undertaken for the overall Council Capital Programme for 2026/2027. 37
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The Council decided: (1) that the 2026/2027 Capital Programme, totalling £105.247 million, as detailed in paragraph 5.1 and Appendix 2 of the report, be approved; (2) that the long-term major Capital Investment Strategy, as outlined in Section 6 and Appendix 3 to the report, be noted; (3) that it be noted that the Council had considered the CIPFA Capital Framework when setting the principles underpinning the Capital Investment Strategy, as outlined in Section 9 and Appendix 4 to the report; and (4) that it be noted that the Council had considered and given due regard to the assessments contained in the Integrated Impact Assessments relating to the proposals in this report, and the outcome of the associated public consultation detailed at paragraph 11 of the report. 5 Prudential Indicators, Treasury Management Strategy and Annual Investment Strategy 2026/2027 A report dated 29 January 2026 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) was submitted on the:- Prudential Code indicators for 2026/2027 to 2028/2029 Council’s Treasury Management Strategy for 2026/2027 Council’s Annual Investment Strategy for 2026/2027 The Prudential Code for Capital Finance in Local Authorities was introduced through the Local Government (Scotland) Act 2003 with the aim of supporting strategic planning for capital investment at a local level. The key objectives of the Prudential Code were to ensure, within a clear framework, that:- local authorities’ capital expenditure plans were affordable, prudent and sustainable treasury management decisions were taken in accordance with good professional practice and in full understanding of the risks involved and how those risks would be managed to levels that were acceptable to the organisation The Prudential Indicators for 2026/2027 to 2028/2029 were shown in Appendix 1, together with explanations for each indicator. An updated position for 2025/2026 was also included. The Prudential Indicators included estimates of capital expenditure. When considering potential capital investment, the Council ensured that the objectives of capital investment were in line with its strategic plans and informed through the asset management planning process. The Council’s treasury activities were regulated by statute and a professional code of practice. The Treasury Management Strategy for 2026/2027 was detailed at Appendix 2 to the report. The main areas covered by the Strategy were:- debt and investment projections expected movement in interest rates borrowing strategies statutory repayment of loans fund advances 38
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The level of borrowing required to fund the Council’s Capital Programme, together with the variable nature of interest rates, increased the risks associated with the treasury management function. The Council would, therefore, take a cautious approach to its Treasury Strategy by setting treasury management indicators to contain the activity of the treasury function within certain limits, thereby managing risk and reducing the impact of adverse movements in interest rates. The Local Government Investments (Scotland) Regulations 2010 provided a formal investment framework for councils. The Regulations required an Annual Investment Strategy, detailing the permitted investments to be approved by the Council. The Annual Investment Strategy for 2026/2027 was attached as Appendix 3 to the report. The Council decided: (1) that the Prudential Code indicators for 2026/2027 to 2028/2029 be approved; (2) that the 2026/2027 Treasury Management Strategy be approved; and (3) that the Annual Investment Strategy for 2026/2027 be approved. 6 Urgent Business There were no items of urgent business. 39
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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 30 September 2025 Chair: Councillor Elaine McDougall Councillors Present: Councillor Mathew Buchanan, Councillor Colin Dewar, Councillor Mary Donnelly (Depute), Councillor Ross Gowland, Councillor Susan Kerr, Councillor Richard Lockhart, Councillor Helen Toner (substitute for Councillor Alistair Fulton) Councillors' Apologies: Councillor Alistair Fulton, Councillor Celine Handibode Councillor Also Present: Councillor Gerry Convery (for items 3 and 4) Attending: Chief Executive’s Service P Manning, Chief Executive (for items 3 and 4) Finance and Corporate Resources J Taylor, Executive Director; Y Douglas, Internal Audit Manager; S Dunsmore, Insurance and Risk Management Adviser; E-A McGonigle, Administration Adviser; A Norris, Administration Assistant; L O’Hagan, Head of Finance (Strategy); I Opatha, Administration Officer; I Strachan, Head of Administration and Legal Services Also Attending: Audit Scotland A Barclay, J Boyd, and M Ferris, External Auditors Order of Business The Committee decided: that the items of business be dealt with in the order minuted below. 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 25 June 2025 were submitted for approval as a correct record. The Committee decided: that the minutes be approved as a correct record. 4 41
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3a External Auditors’ Annual Report 2024/2025 The following documents were submitted by Audit Scotland, the Council’s external auditors:- letter and appendices relating to the 2024/2025 Annual Audit report on South Lanarkshire Council 2024/2025 South Lanarkshire Council proposed Annual Audit report to members of the Council and the Controller of Audit The Audit Director, Audit Scotland, spoke on the Annual Audit report and highlighted the following:- the audit of the 2024/2025 Annual Accounts financial management financial sustainability best value vision, leadership and governance use of resources to improve outcomes:- key messages significant findings and key audit matters:- implementation of IFRS 16 (Leases) disclosures prior year restatement relating to South Lanarkshire Leisure and Culture (SLLC) Limited pension asset significant risks of material misstatement in the annual accounts identified during planning of the audit:- risk of material misstatement due to fraud caused by management override of controls valuation of property, plant and equipment estimation of the pension liability 2024/2025 action plan on recommendations for improvement summary of corrected misstatements The external auditors’ opinion on the Council’s Annual Accounts 2024/2025 and the charities administered by the Council was unmodified, that is, the financial statements and related reports were free from material misstatement. Due to the interaction of section 106 of the Local Government in Scotland Act 1973 with the charity’s legislation, a separate independent auditor’s report was required for the statement of accounts of each registered charity where members of the Council were sole trustees, and this was irrespective of the size of the charity. Officers responded to members’ questions in relation to:- the year-end timetable and the importance of ensuring working papers for the External Audit were provided to the Finance Strategy team in line with deadlines the high-level review of Oracle Fusion implementation, which had identified that clear supporting documentation had not been available due to the Council’s retention policy the post-implementation and benefits realisation review of the new Oracle platform, and assurance that the Committee would be updated as appropriate training and development of members to ensure the Committee was effective in its role The Audit Director, Audit Scotland, undertook to arrange a session with members to conduct an annual review and self-assessment. The Audit Director also commended the Finance (Strategy) team for delivering the statutory audit on time, particularly with the challenges faced with the implementation of Oracle Fusion. 42
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The Depute Leader thanked the External Auditors for the report and extended thanks to the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources), the Head of Finance (Strategy) and the wider team for the comprehensive work that had been undertaken to prepare the annual accounts. The Chair, on behalf of the Committee, echoed those remarks. The Committee decided: that the report be noted. 3b Transformation: How Councils are Redesigning and Delivering More Efficient Services to Achieve Planned Outcomes - Best Value Thematic Work in South Lanarkshire Council 2024/2025 A report dated September 2025 by Audit Scotland, the Council’s external auditors, was submitted entitled ‘Transformation: How Councils are Redesigning and Delivering More Efficient Services to Achieve Planned Outcomes - Best Value Thematic Work in South Lanarkshire Council 2024/2025’. The report set out how the Council was responding to transformation challenges through redesigning and delivering more efficient services to achieve planned outcomes. The Accounts Commission’s Strategy (2021 to 2026) had set out its priorities to focus on inequalities, funding, communities and recovery. The Code of Audit Practice had set out the Best Value work required to report on those priorities. The Audit Director, Audit Scotland, highlighted the following sections of the report:- key messages transformation planning programme management partnership working and community engagement impact of transformation The report detailed the following audit recommendations:- the Council should ensure its plans for transformation were sufficiently ambitious to ensure that it could continue to deliver sustainable services, prioritising transformational activities that would deliver the most impact and contribute towards reducing its budget gap the Council should assess whether its arrangements for resourcing transformation activities were sufficient to drive the scale and pace of change required in future the Council should ensure it demonstrated how engagement with communities, including vulnerable groups, had informed planned changes to services the Council should prioritise establishing a framework that identified and monitored the estimated and realised impact to date of its transformation work, including on service delivery and on outcomes for service users. It should report to the Corporate Management Team (CMT) and elected members on both the financial and non-financial impact of the full range of its transformational activities An improvement action plan, attached as Appendix 1 to the report, set out those audit recommendations and the Council’s planned response, which included responsible officers and dates for implementation. The Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) responded to a member’s question in relation to actions being reported back to the Committee. The Committee decided: that the report be noted. 43
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3c External Auditors’ Annual Report 2024/2025: South Lanarkshire Council Charitable Trusts Summary letters, proposed independent auditor’s reports and letters of representation (ISA 580) were submitted by Audit Scotland, the Council’s external auditors for South Lanarkshire Council Charitable Trusts. The Audit Manager, Audit Scotland advised that there were no unadjusted misstatements to be corrected for the Charitable Trusts administered by the Council. The Committee decided: that the report be noted. 4 Audited Annual Accounts 2024/2025 A report dated 19 September 2025 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) was submitted on the:- Council’s Certified Annual Accounts and Charitable Trusts’ Accounts for 2024/2025, which had received a clean audit certificate from the Council’s external auditors, Audit Scotland requirement to approve the Annual Accounts 2024/2025 for signature in terms of both the Council’s accounts and related charitable trusts The accounts covered the Council as well as 2 Charitable Trusts managed by the Council, namely South Lanarkshire Council Educational Trust and South Lanarkshire Council Charitable Trust. A clean audit certificate had been received for each, with no qualifications on the Council’s accounts. An agreed action plan had been included in the external auditor’s report, and officers would work to ensure those were implemented in 2024/2025. The Annual Accounts would be advertised as being available for public inspection on the Council’s website and on request from Finance Services. The Chair, on behalf of the Committee, thanked the Head of Finance (Strategy) and team for their extensive work involved in preparing the Annual Accounts. The Committee decided: (1) that it be noted that the South Lanarkshire Council Annual Accounts 2024/2025 and the Charitable Trusts’ Accounts had each received a clean audit certificate from the Council’s external auditors, Audit Scotland; (2) that the audited South Lanarkshire Council Accounts 2024/2025 and the Charitable Trusts’ Accounts be approved for signature; (3) that it be noted that the external auditor’s report would be referred to a future meeting of South Lanarkshire Council for information; and (4) that it be noted that, as detailed in section 3.6 of the report, the Audited Accounts 2024/2025 would be available on the Council’s website. [Reference: Minutes of 25 June 2024 (Paragraph 5)] 5 Internal Audit Activity as at 31 August 2025 A report dated 5 September 2025 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) was submitted on work completed by Internal Audit during the period 1 June to 31 August 2025. 44
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Findings from internal audit assignments were reported to this Committee throughout the year, and the last progress report was considered by the Committee on 25 June 2025. Information was provided for the Internal Audit work completed during the period from 1 June to 31 August 2025. As at 31 August 2025, good progress had been made with 74% of the 2025/2026 Audit Plan in progress and 14% of assignments completed to the final report stage. Targets for the remainder of the year were outlined to ensure delivery of the Plan by May 2026. Key performance indicators for the period, including 5 indicators assessed as amber with planned corrective actions, were detailed in Appendix 1 to the report. A summary of the audit output for each assignment was detailed in Appendix 2. Updates were also provided on:- audit plan progress, as detailed in section 4 of the report. All assignments from 1 April 2025 would be conducted in conformance with the Global Internal Audit Standards (GIAS). Three assignments from 2024/2025 and 7 assignments from 2025/2026 were completed or closed in the period to 31 August 2025, and those were detailed in paragraph 4.2 of the report all of those assignments, except Self-Directed Support, which would be progressed to a final report. It was proposed that the planned assignment reviewing Self-Directed Support arrangements would be deferred to 2026/2027 to align with the implementation of the new Social Work Resources’ IT system (Liquid Logic), as detailed in paragraph 4.3 of the report. The allocated days for this assignment would be used for a substitute audit to review direct payment arrangements within Social Work Resources, providing a fuller assessment of risks and controls a summary of the audit output for each assignment, which was detailed in Appendix 2 to the report. Further information in relation to the one, more significant assignment, the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023, was set out at Appendix 3 to the report, and the key points were detailed in paragraph 4.4 of the report. The introduction of a new offence of ‘failure to prevent fraud’ was in place from 1 September 2025, which would hold large organisations, including the Council, to account if they profited from fraud 8 assignments which were finalised in the same period for external clients, with output reported to their respective audit committees and Boards the Council’s response to the Accounts Commission Consultation on priorities and work programme, as detailed in Appendix 4 to the report key findings and recommendations, as detailed in section 5 of the report emerging risks and issues, as detailed in section 6 of the report a compliance and standards update, as detailed in section 7 of the report governance and Committee engagement, as detailed in section 8 of the report The Committee decided: (1) that progress with delivery of the 2025/2026 Internal Audit Plan be noted; (2) that performance in the period to 31 August 2025, as detailed in Appendix 1, be noted; (3) that the proposed amendment to the Audit Plan, as set out in paragraph 4.3, be approved; (4) that audit output from assignments completed in the period, as detailed in appendices 2 and 3, be noted; and (5) that the responses to the Accounts Commission Consultation, as detailed in Appendix 4, be noted. 45
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The Internal Audit Manager responded to a member’s question in relation to the percentage of assignments for which final reports had been issued. The Chair thanked the Internal Audit team for the comprehensive report. [Reference: Minutes of 25 June 2025 (Paragraph 3)] 6 Annual Update on the Use of Surveillance Powers - The Regulation of Investigatory Powers (Scotland) Act 2000 (RIPSA) A report dated 6 August 2025 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) was submitted, providing an updated version of the Council’s Regulation of Investigatory Powers (Scotland) Act 2000 (RIPSA) Policy and providing an overview and update on the use of directed surveillance powers by the Council. The use of surveillance to provide information was a potentially valuable resource for the protection of the public and the maintenance of law and order. To ensure that local authorities and law enforcement agencies were able to discharge their responsibilities, use was made of unaided surveillance and surveillance devices. RIPSA provided a legal framework for the use, deployment, duration and effectiveness of covert surveillance and the use of covert human intelligence sources. The Council must comply with RIPSA and adhere to the authorisation procedures specified in the Council’s RIPSA Policy and related procedures. The Investigatory Powers Commissioner's Office (IPCO) provided independent oversight of the use of the powers contained within RIPSA. This oversight included inspections by IPCO inspectors on a regular basis, approximately every 3 years, with the Council’s next inspection expected in 2026. The Council’s RIPSA Policy and its procedures applied where ‘Directed Surveillance’ was being planned or carried out. Directed Surveillance could only be conducted to achieve one or more of the permitted RIPSA purposes, namely:- preventing or detecting crime or the prevention of disorder in the interests of public safety protecting public health Directed surveillance was covert and was undertaken for the purpose of a specific investigation to obtain private information. The Council’s RIPSA Policy comprised a Protocol for Covert Directed Surveillance and a Protocol for Using Covert Human Intelligence Source. Those were last reviewed in May 2023 and November 2016, respectively and had been the subject of a fresh review. A few minor updates had been made to reflect changes in Council structure and aligned the 2 Protocols, as detailed in appendices 1 and 2 of the report. Those changes had been made by officers under delegated authority in terms of the Scheme of Delegation due to the minor nature of the changes. Going forward, those Protocols would be the subject of an annual review, the outcome of which would be reported to the Committee in line with the IPCO’s recommended practice. The Committee decided: (1) that the contents of this report be noted; 46
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(2) that the updated Council’s Regulation of Investigatory Powers (Scotland) Act 2000 (RIPSA) Policy, being the Protocol for Direct Covert Surveillance and the Protocol for using Covert Human Intelligence Source, included in appendices 1 and 2 to the report, be noted; and (3) that it be noted that the Council’s use of surveillance powers under RIPSA would be reported annually to the Committee going forward. 7 Financial Resilience and Sustainability A report dated 10 September 2025 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) was submitted, providing an update on:- the Council’s financial outlook, financial resilience and sustainability how risks posed by the financial challenges would be responded to A report had been presented to the Executive Committee on 25 June 2025, which detailed the 2026/2027 to 2027/2028 Revenue Budget Strategy. The report highlighted that the Council faced a Budget Gap of £24.273 million over the next 2 years, with potential further risks if pay awards exceeded assumptions, potentially increasing the gap to over £42 million. The report also noted that Transformational Reviews and options to increase Council Tax could help address the gap. The report acknowledged the importance of financial resilience in light of those challenges. Financial resilience was defined as more than reliance on usable reserves, and included understanding exposure to loss of income, expenditure commitments, and flexibility to access funds in a time of crisis. The Revenue Budget Strategy report to the Executive Committee on 25 June 2025 had detailed that a further report would be presented to the Risk and Audit Scrutiny Committee, which would provide more information on the Council’s resilience. Detailed information was provided on:- the financial position and plan for 2026/2027 to 2027/2028, as detailed in section 4 of the report financial resilience and a summary of the Financial Resilience Framework, as detailed in section 5 and Appendix 1 to the report The Committee decided: (1) that the Financial Position and Plan for 2026/2027 to 2027/2028, as detailed in section 4 of the report, be noted; and (2) that the Financial Resilience Framework, as detailed in section 5 and Appendix 1 of the report, be noted. [Reference: Minutes of the Executive Committee of 25 June 2025 (Paragraph 8) and Minutes of 24 September 2024 (Paragraph 6)] 8 Audit Scotland – Local Government Budgets 2025/2026 A report dated 7 August 2025 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) was submitted on the information contained within Audit Scotland's ‘Local Government Budgets Briefing 2025/2026’. 47
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In May 2025, Audit Scotland published a report entitled ‘Local Government Budgets 2025/2026’ on behalf of the Accounts Commission. The Audit Scotland report was part of a series of outputs produced by the Accounts Commission that provided an independent overview of the local government sector. Detailed information was provided on:- the introduction and key messages from the Audit Scotland report, as detailed in section 4 of the report funding, budgeting and communities, as detailed in section 5 of the report the Council’s position in relation to the key messages in the Audit Scotland report, as detailed in section 6 of the report The Committee decided: (1) that the key messages and data from the Audit Scotland ‘Local Government Budgets 2025/2026’ report, as detailed in sections 4 and 5 of the report, be noted; and (2) that the commentary on the Council’s position, as detailed in section 6 of the report, be noted. 9 Fraud Statistics Annual Report 2024/2025 A report dated 28 August 2025 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) was submitted, providing:- a summary of the fraud statistics and workload for the year to 31 March 2025 and a comparison to the same period in 2024 an update on other anti-fraud activity a comparison of current fraud arrangements to best practice The number, types, outcomes and costs of fraud investigations, together with performance measures for the year to 31 March 2025, were detailed in the report. A comparison to the statistics for the same period in the previous year was also provided. Those statistics highlighted that:- 30 fraud investigations, with a total value of £9,000, had been reported in the period, representing a decrease in both number and value from the previous year 177 cases were closed in the period, of which:- 14 were founded 1 had insufficient information 44 were unfounded 118 had no housing benefit in the claim of the 14 founded allegations, 13 were external and one was benefits-related Information on the wider fraud workload was provided in paragraphs 4.7 to 4.11 of the report. Outcomes for concluded investigations had been reported to this Committee as part of Internal Audit’s Annual Assurance report or captured in the National Fraud Initiative (NFI) exercise in 2022. Details on the following were provided in sections 5 to 8 of the report, respectively:- the NFI 2024 exercise the ‘Three Lines of Defence’ – Fraud Risk Analysis 48
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a comparison of fraud risk arrangements to best practice the Serious and Organised Crime (SOC) Group The Committee decided: that the contents of the report be noted. [Reference: Minutes of 24 September 2025 (Paragraph 8) and Minutes of 25 June 2025 (Paragraph 3)] 10 Year-End Insured Risk Report 2024/2025 A report dated 5 September 2025 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) was submitted on the Council’s insurance claims for the year to 31 March 2025 for the following main classes of insurance:- combined liability (covering both public liability and employer’s liability) motor insurance property insurance and other miscellaneous risks Appendix 1 to the report provided annual comparisons of the numbers and values of claims by Resources for the years 2020/2021 to 2024/2025. Claims costs had fluctuated over the last 5 years. On average, over that period, the self-insured cost of claims per annum was £2.882 million, however, the costs for 2024/2025 were above average at £4.137 million. The figures for 2024/2025 had been impacted by Storm Eowyn, with the self-insured estimated cost of that event included within the total. Inflation, increased costs of materials, vehicle parts and repair charges had also impacted claim values. Appendix 2 to the report compared claim numbers and costs for 2024/2025, at 31 March 2025, with the equivalent position for 2023/2024. This showed a reduction of 40 claims (4.5%) on the numbers reported in 2023/2024, with a total of 846 claims intimated. The cost of claims increased from £3.548 million in 2023/2024 to £4.137 million in 2024/2025. This represented an increase of £0.589 million (16.6%), which was a result of the estimated cost of property and motor claims increasing, with the position being offset slightly by reduced estimated costs for liability claims. Appendix 3 to the report provided a further breakdown of public liability claims and costs specifically for Roads and other services within Community and Enterprise Resources. Information was also provided in sections 6 to 9 of the report on:- liability claim motor claims property claims insurance hotspots and the progress made over the last year to mitigate risks The Committee decided: that the Insured Risks Report for the year ended 31 March 2025 be noted. [Reference: Minutes of 24 September 2024 (Paragraph 9)] 49
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11 Year End Risk Management Report (2024/2025) and Review of Council’s Top Risks (2025/2026) A report dated 5 September 2025 by the Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) was submitted providing an update on:- progress with risk management activity undertaken during 2024/2025 the Council’s top risk register following the review and consultation process Annual reviews of the Council’s top risks were undertaken, with the findings of the last review reported to the Committee on 24 September 2024. This year’s full review commenced in April 2025, and the consultation had sought views from Heads of Service, elected members and trade unions on new areas of risk. Risk Sponsors were required on an annual basis to assess their Resources’ compliance with the Risk Management Strategy and provide supporting evidence. The information for 2024/2025 was summarised in the end-of-year compliance statement, which was detailed in Appendix 1 to the report. Resources continued to demonstrate full compliance with the Strategy, having scored 45 out of 45. The progress made in delivering actions to control the Council’s top risks was detailed in section 5 of the report. As at 31 March 2025, the percentage of actions completed on the 2024/2025 risk control plan was 73.4% against an overall target of 90%. Actions that were on hold or experienced slippage, in relation to Community Planning and IT forecasting, had been carried forward to the 2025/2026 risk control plan. The annual review, in line with previous years, did not result in wholesale changes to the top risk register. The risks from the previous year’s review, as detailed in the report to the Committee on 24 September 2024, were still deemed to be valid. The results of the review of the Council’s top risks 2025/2026 were detailed in section 6 of the report. The main changes from the previous year were:- 2 risks had been removed from the top risk register:- the Council was materially affected by the implications arising from the National Care Service (NCS) Bill the Council inherited commercially unviable shopping centres due to the financial failure of existing owner/management companies, resulting in significant financial and operational liabilities transferring to the Council the following 2 risks had been consolidated, with the new wording, as detailed in Table 2 of the report, intended to cover all types of civil emergencies:- failure to fulfil emergency response commitments befitting the Council’s status as a Category One (emergency) responder the Council did not have the appropriate emergency/business continuity plans, contingency arrangements, or partnerships in place to respond to/or recover from a pandemic/endemic event some changes to residual risk scores, as detailed in Table 3 of the report some key risk wordings had been updated to reflect the current status of risks and/or to provide more straightforward and understandable risk descriptions As part of the review of the Risk Management Strategy, risk categories had been realigned, and some scores had been revised. This had resulted in the previously high categorised risks now being categorised as medium-level risks and no longer featured as part of the Council’s top risks, as detailed in paragraph 6.3 of the report. 50
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The Council’s top risk register was monitored on an ongoing basis and updates were reported annually to this Committee. Risk scores and rankings would be amended if new information came to light that allowed the position to be reassessed. The top Risk Register for 2025/2026 was attached as Appendix 2 to the report. Details were provided in section 7 of the report on a benchmarking exercise that had been conducted to review risks faced by a sample of other Scottish local authorities. This review established that the current South Lanarkshire Council top risk register was, in the main, reflective of the risks faced by those other authorities. Horizon scanning was used to identify several areas that could pose potential threats and risks or emerging issues and opportunities that could affect the Council. Areas identified, as detailed in section 8 of the report, included Transformational Change, the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act, the Care Reform (Scotland) Bill and Scotland Excel Supply Chain Intelligence Report. Those areas would continue to be monitored to ensure the Council was adequately prepared to respond, where required. Details were also provided in sections 9 and 10 of the report on the following areas:- the ‘Three Lines Model’ work was being undertaken by Internal Audit. This had now concluded and Resource Risk Sponsors have been provided with individual analysis and guidance to support in developing further controls and in closing gaps for the Council's top risks the scope and appetite for risk, which included the top risks heat map and the top risks profile The Insurance and Risk Management Adviser responded to a member’s question in relation to Employer National Insurance Contributions (ENICs). The Committee decided: (1) that Resource compliance with the requirements of the Risk Management Strategy be noted; (2) that the progress being made in delivering actions to mitigate top Council risks be noted; and (3) that the updated Council’s top risks, as detailed in Appendix 2 of the report, be noted. [Reference: Minutes of 24 September 2024 (Paragraph 10)] 12 Forward Programme for Future Meetings A report dated 20 August 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 29 September 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 29 September 2026 be noted. [Reference: Minutes 25 June 2025 (Paragraph 8)] 51
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13 Urgent Business There were no items of urgent business. 52
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Report Agenda Item Report to: South Lanarkshire Council Date of Meeting: 11 March 2026 Report by: Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) Subject: Proposed Update to Terms of Reference of the Appeals Panel and Grievance and Disputes Panel 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 the Appeals Panel and Grievance and Disputes Panel [1purpose] 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Council is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- [recs] (1) that the membership section of the Terms of Reference of the Appeals Panel and Grievance and Disputes Panel be amended, as set out in paragraph 4.1 of the report and as fully detailed in Appendix 2. 3. Background 3.1. The Terms of Reference of both the Appeals Panel and Grievance and Disputes Panel were approved at the statutory meeting of the Council in May 2022. 3.2. The current Terms of Reference for both includes provision for one of the 3 members to be the Chair or one of the Depute Chairs of the Finance and Corporate Resources Committee. 4. Proposals 4.1. To allow for more flexibility in terms of arranging appeals and finalising Panel arrangements, it is proposed that the current Terms of Reference of the Appeals Panel and Grievance and Disputes Panel, attached as Appendix 1, be amended, as outlined in bold below and attached as Appendix 2, to provide that its membership is as follows:- “Membership of individual panels to be 3 members, comprising (i) the Chair or Depute Chairs of the Finance and Corporate Resources Committee who would be given first option for one of the places (and would act as Chair of the Panel if able to attend or, whom failing to attend, a member of the Ruling Group who is not the Chair or Depute Chair of the relevant Resource Committee who would then act as Chair of the Panel); (ii) a member of the Ruling Group who is not the Chair or Depute Chair(s) of the relevant Resource Committee; and (iii) a member of the Opposition Groups to be drawn in rotation from the Finance and Corporate Resources Committee and from 15 members not serving on the Finance and Corporate Resources Committee.” 5 53
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5. Employee Implications 5.1. There are no employee implications directly arising from this report. 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) 26 February 2026 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Accountable, effective, efficient and transparent Previous References South Lanarkshire Council of 18 May 2022 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 54
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Appendix 1 Current Terms of Reference Appeals Panel 1 Powers and Responsibilities 1.1 To determine appeals against:- punitive disciplinary action for all employees taken at Service level non-punitive action where this has been administered by an Executive Director 2 Membership 2.1 Membership of individual panels to be 3 members, comprising the Chair or one of the Depute Chairs of the Finance and Corporate Resources Committee, a member of the Administration, who is not the Chair or Depute Chair(s) of the relevant Resource Committee, and a member of the Opposition Groups to be drawn in rotation from the Finance and Corporate Resources Committee and from 15 members not serving on the Finance and Corporate Resources Committee. 2.2 Quorum – 2. 3 Meeting Arrangements and Practice 3.1 To meet as required. Grievance and Disputes Panel 1 Powers and Responsibilities 1.1 To determine grievances, either individual or collective, from all employees. 1.2 To hear representations from trade unions on matters not agreed at officer level by consultation and negotiation. 2 Membership 2.1 Membership of individual panels to be 3 members, comprising the Chair or one of the Depute Chairs of the Finance and Corporate Resources Committee, a member of the Administration, who is not the Chair or Depute Chair(s) of the relevant Resource Committee, and a member of the Opposition Groups to be drawn in rotation from the Finance and Corporate Resources Committee and from 15 members not serving on the Finance and Corporate Resources Committee. 2.2 Quorum – 2. 3 Meeting Arrangements and Practice 3.1 To meet as required. 55
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Appendix 2 Revised Terms of Reference Appeals Panel 1. Powers and Responsibilities 1.1 To determine appeals against:- punitive disciplinary action for all employees taken at Service level non-punitive action where this has been administered by an Executive Director 2. Membership 2.1 Membership of individual panels to be 3 members, comprising (i) the Chair or Depute Chairs of the Finance and Corporate Resources Committee who would be given first option for one of the places (and would act as Chair of the Panel if able to attend or, whom failing to attend, a member of the Ruling Group who is not the Chair or Depute Chair of the relevant Resource Committee who would then act as Chair of the Panel); (ii) a member of the Ruling Group who is not the Chair or Depute Chair(s) of the relevant Resource Committee; and (iii) a member of the Opposition Groups to be drawn in rotation from the Finance and Corporate Resources Committee and from 15 members not serving on the Finance and Corporate Resources Committee. 2.2 Quorum – 2. 3. Meeting Arrangements and Practice 3.1 To meet as required. Grievance and Disputes Panel 1 Powers and Responsibilities 1.1 To determine grievances, either individual or collective, from all employees. 1.2 To hear representations from trade unions on matters not agreed at officer level by consultation and negotiation. 2 Membership 2.1 Membership of individual panels to be 3 members, comprising (i) the Chair or Depute Chairs of the Finance and Corporate Resources Committee who would be given first option for one of the places (and would act as Chair of the Panel if able to attend or, whom failing to attend, a member of the Ruling Group who is not the Chair or Depute Chair of the relevant Resource Committee who would then act as Chair of the Panel); (ii) a member of the Ruling Group who is not the Chair or Depute Chair(s) of the relevant Resource Committee; and (iii) a member of the Opposition Groups to be drawn in rotation from the Finance and Corporate Resources Committee and from 15 members not serving on the Finance and Corporate Resources Committee. 2.2 Quorum – 2. 3 Meeting Arrangements and Practice 3.1 To meet as required. 56
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Report Agenda Item Report to: South Lanarkshire Council Date of Meeting: 11 March 2026 Report by: Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Services) Subject: South Lanarkshire Council Armed Forces Community Covenant Strategy – Annual Update 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- [purpose] provide an update on the work the Council has undertaken in progressing delivery of the South Lanarkshire Council Armed Forces Community Covenant Strategy [1purpose] 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Council is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- [recs] (1) that the update on the work the Council has undertaken in progressing delivery of the South Lanarkshire Council Armed Forces Community Covenant Strategy be noted; (2) that the updates to the Action Plan for 2026 contained in Appendix 1 to this report be approved; and (3) that it be noted that a further annual update will be provided to the Council at its meeting in January 2027. [1recs] 3. Background 3.1. At its meeting on 26 June 2024, the Council’s Executive Committee approved the South Lanarkshire Council Armed Forces Community Covenant Strategy, and associated action plan. The Strategy is included on the Council's website. 3.2 The Council has previously considered reports on its support to the Armed Forces Community, including Support for Veterans on 26 June 2019 and the Armed Forces Community Covenant Duty on 31 January 2024. 3.3 The Council signed up to the Armed Forces Community Covenant with a range of partners from the NHS, the Military and voluntary and charity sectors on 5 March 2012, this document was signed by the then Leader and Chief Executive on behalf of the Council. To underline and raise awareness of the Covenant, the Council recommitted to the Armed Forces Community Covenant by signing an updated version of the Covenant document at the Council’s Armed Forces Day Flag Raising Event on 23 June 2018. 3.4 As reported to the Council on 31 January 2024, the Armed Forces Act 2021 further established the commitments in the Covenant, with the creation of the statutory Armed Forces Covenant Duty. As reported to the Council, the Covenant Duty requires organisations delivering local services to pay ‘due regard’ to the Covenant principles when exercising functions in the areas of housing, education, and healthcare. ‘Due 6 57
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regard’ means informed decision making and means that the Council should think about and place appropriate weight on the principles of the Covenant when it considers factors relevant to how it conducts functions which fall within the scope of the 2021 Act, the principles that need to be considered being:- the unique obligations of, and sacrifices made by, the Armed Forces; the principle that it is desirable to remove disadvantages arising for service personnel from membership, or former membership, of the Armed Forces; and the principle that special provision for service personnel may be justified by the effects on such people of membership, or former membership, of the Armed Forces. 3.5. The Council last received an update on the work the Council has undertaken in progressing delivery of the South Lanarkshire Council Armed Forces Community Covenant Strategy on 19 February 2025. This report provides an update on work since that previous report. 4. Armed Forces Community Covenant Strategy Update 4.1. In the period since the report to the Council in February 2025, officers have been taking forward the delivery of it and the associated action plan. 4.2. The Strategy has 5 workstreams, as follows:- promote the Covenant to our staff and external stakeholders; provide employment support to members of the Armed Forces Community; engage and work with Lanarkshire Armed Forces Community and Veterans Covenant Group; provide the Armed Forces Community with fair access to our services, in particular housing, education, and health and social care; and promote and support local Armed Forces events and military heritage sites. 4.3. Forces in Mind Trust have advised the Council that there are approximately 8,300 veterans living in South Lanarkshire. This underlines the importance of promoting the Covenant, and ensuring that the Council’s services, but also those of the Council’s partners, are responsive to the needs of veterans and the wider Armed Forces Community. The Trust’s recent Our Community, Our Covenant and Beyond report also underlined the key role of local government in delivering the Covenant. 4.4. An update on the Action Plan, including recent and planned activity in respect of each workstream, is included in Appendix 1 to this report. 4.5. Notable achievements in the period since the previous update report include the following:- In July 2025 The Ministry of Defence awarding the Council the Gold Award in the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) for its work in employing and supporting Reservists, service leavers, Veterans and their families. The ERS encourages employers to support defence and inspire others to do the same through pledging, demonstrating or advocating support to defence and the armed forces community, and aligning their values with the Covenant. The Council previously held the Silver Award. This award was publicised on the South Lanarkshire View; The North and South Lanarkshire Armed Forces Covenant Guide, jointly commissioned with North Lanarkshire Council through the Lanarkshire Armed Forces Community and Veterans Covenant Group, having been published. This guide is now available on the Council’s website, and has been publicised 58
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with relevant stakeholders and partners, to help the Armed Forces Community access services and supports within Lanarkshire; and The Provost holding an event in Hamilton on 8th May 2025 to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day. 4.6. Work on the Strategy will continue, and a further update will be reported to the Council in January 2027. In particular, it remains extremely important that Council staff, and partners, have suitable awareness of the Covenant and the Duty, and in light of those commitments always look to ensure the particular needs of the Armed Forces Community are recognised and taken account of in the delivery of services. Veterans Scotland has also received funding from Forces in Mind Trust to help support self- sustaining networks of Armed Forces Champions and support local authorities in their work in promoting the Covenant, which the Council will engage with. 4.7. It is also understood that the UK Government is proposing to expand the Duty, beyond the 3 service areas currently within scope, those being Education, Housing and Health, to 14 areas, including Social Care, Childcare, Welfare Benefits, Criminal Justice and Transport. Further information on this is awaited, and the Council will be kept advised on the progression of this. 4.8. This report, which has been prepared in consultation with Councillor Horsham, the Council’s Armed Forces Champion, also discharges the Champion’s remit to report annually to the Council on the Council’s activities and achievements in respect of its obligations under the Covenant. 5. Employee Implications 5.1. There are no implications for employees arising from the information presented in this report. 5.2 This report clearly demonstrates the Council’s commitment to recognising the unique obligations of, and sacrifices made by, the Armed Forces; and the steps it is taking to remove disadvantages arising for service personnel from membership, or former membership, of the Armed Forces. 6. Financial Implications 6.1. There are no financial implications arising from this report, and ongoing work continues to be accommodated within existing budgets. 7. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 7.1. There are no Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications arising from the information contained within this report. 8. Other Implications 8.1. There are no implications for sustainability or risk in terms of the information contained within this report. 59
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9. Integrated Impact Assessment and Consultation Arrangements 9.1. An impact assessment is not required in respect of this report. 9.2 The Strategy and Action Plan highlight the steps that when taken forward will help the Council meet the requirements of the Armed Forces Community Covenant and the statutory Armed Forces Covenant Duty. 9.3 Council Officers have consulted with the Council’s Armed Forces Champion on the content of this report. 9.4 Trade Unions colleagues will be updated on the content of this report. Jackie Taylor Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) 15 February 2026 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Accountable, effective, efficient and transparent Fair, open and sustainable Ambitious, self aware and improving Excellent employer Focused on people and their needs Working with and respecting others Previous References South Lanarkshire Council – 29 June 2019 South Lanarkshire Council – 31 January 2024 Executive Committee – 26 June 2024 South Lanarkshire Council – 19 February 2025 List of Background Papers Armed Forces Covenant Duty Statutory Guidance on the Armed Forces Covenant Duty South Lanarkshire Armed Forces Community Covenant Duty Report 31 January 2024 Local Authority Armed Forces and Veterans Champion Role Description 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 Michelle Milne, Head of Personnel Services Ext: 4330 (Tel: 01698 454658) E-mail: michelle.milne@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 60
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Appendix 1 – Armed Forces Community Covenant Strategy Action Plan Updates – 11 March 2026 Workstream 1 – Promote the Covenant to our staff and external stakeholders Action Service Lead Timescale Update RAG Status March 2026 Review of Veterans pages on Council’s website Head of Personnel Services and Head of Administration and Legal Services February 2025, will be revised to December 2026 The pages were reviewed and updated in 2025, will be subject to further review in 2026 and will be reviewed annually and as required. Complete. Annual Report on Strategy and Covenant to Full Council Head of Administration and Legal Services March 2026, will be revised to January 2027 Completed for 2025 by submission of this report. Complete. Creation of Lanarkshire Armed Forces Covenant Guide Head of Administration and Legal Services December 2025, will be removed as completed Completed, now available online. Link on Council’s website. Complete. Delivery of training on Armed Forces Covenant Duty to relevant Council services Head of Administration and Legal Services December 2025, will be revised to December 2026 Have been updates on the Duty given to relevant staff/managers within Housing and Technical and Education Resources. Is also included as part of Integrated Impact Assessment that adopted in both the Council and the Health and Social Care Partnership, the Duty being one of the elements now the subject of a specific impact assessment. An eLearning course on the Duty was launched in January 2025, cascaded to managers and staff, with a separate training session for relevant managers and staff also being held in January. As at 12 January 2026, 434 staff have undertaken the e-learning course. Further reminders and training will be rolled out to relevant services in 2026 and annually thereafter Green, ongoing. 6 61
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Creation of Armed Forces Covenant Cross Service Working Group Head of Administration and Legal Services, Resource Champions and Head of Personnel Services June 2024, will be removed as completed Formed, and meeting monthly, includes staff from Finance and Corporate Resources, Education Resources, Housing and Technical Resources and the Health and Social Care Partnership. Complete. 62
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Notes South Lanarkshire Council offers a guaranteed interview to Veterans who meet the essential criteria requirements for the post. This status is identified through screening questions. The guaranteed interview approach is monitored within the Council at application, shortleet, interview and appointment stage. The guaranteed interview has now been extended to veterans’ close family members, provided they likewise meet the essential criteria of the post. Workstream 2 – Provide employment support to members of the Armed Forces Community Action Update for SLC February 2024 Timescale Comment RAG Status March 2026 Maintain Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Silver Award Head of Personnel Services March 2025, will be removed as now have Gold Award. The Council was awarded the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Silver Award in March 2023 for the second time. In achieving this award, the Council met the criteria for the award as it has demonstrated support for Defence, by employing at least one Reservist, actively communicating and upholding a positive stance to employees via established HR policies and procedures. Silver Award holders support Reservists by showing flexibility to allow them to plan for and fulfil their annual training and mobilisation requirements. Completed, and now superseded by Gold Award, below. Work towards achieving Defence Recognition Gold Award Head of Personnel Services March 2025, will be removed as now have Gold Award. The Council was awarded the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award in July 2025 Complete Maintain Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award Head of Personnel Services December 2026 The Council was awarded the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award in July 2025. In achieving this award, the Council met the criteria for the award as it has demonstrated support for Defence, by employing at least one Reservist, actively communicating and upholding a positive stance to employees via established HR policies and procedures. Gold Award holders support Reservists by showing flexibility to allow them to plan for and fulfil their annual training and mobilisation requirements. Green, ongoing. Gold Award will be maintained through business as usual work. 63
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The Council also records statistics for the number of Veterans interviewed and appointed these are as follows for 2023 to 2025. Year 2023 2024 2025 No. Veterans Interviewed 74 56 62 No. Veterans Appointed 3 6 7 % Veterans Appointed 4% 11% 11% As can be seen, the number of Veterans being interviewed increased slightly, with the % being appointed remained the same, 7 individuals in 2025, out of 62 being interviewed. The Council also provides special leave of up to 15 days with pay, subject to deduction of service pay, to members of the reserve forces. 64
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Workstream 3 – Engage and work with Lanarkshire Armed Forces Community and Veterans Covenant Group Action Service Lead Timescale Update RAG Status March 2026 Meetings to be co- chaired by Armed Forces Champion Head of Administration and Legal Services December 2024, will be revised to December 2026 - Quarterly Ongoing, meetings are held regularly co-chaired by Cllr Horsham. Further information on the work of the Group included in the notes below. Green, ongoing. Meetings to be attended by Armed Forces Champion Head of Administration and Legal Services December 2024, will be revised to December 2026 - Quarterly Ongoing, meetings are held regularly co-chaired by Cllr Horsham. Green, ongoing. Minutes of meeting to be shared internally with relevant Council officers Head of Administration and Legal Services December 2024, will be revised to December 2026 - Quarterly Ongoing, Head of Administration and Legal Services shares minutes with Armed Forces Covenant Cross Service Working Group. Green, ongoing. Notes Lanarkshire Armed Forces Community and Veterans Covenant Group, which is jointly chaired by the Armed Forces and Veterans Champions of both North and South Lanarkshire, met 3 times during 2025. Membership of the group also includes Legal, Personnel, Housing, Education and Corporate Communications representatives of both councils together with representatives of NHS Scotland, Police Scotland, Hamilton CAB, Lanarkshire Veterans First Point, PSAO C Coy 6 Scots. Lanarkshire Armed Services Advice (LASA), SSAFA, Skills Development Scotland, Veterans Scotland, SACRO, Veterans Community (Lanarkshire) SCIO, Vector24, Defence Medical Welfare Service (DMWS), British Legion, Veterans Welfare Service, Routes to Work, Blesma, Forces Employment Charity, Royal Air Forces Association, Department for Work and Pensions, Office of the Lieutenancy, 52 Support Squadron 32 Signal Regiment, 51 Brigade, Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund, Veterans Advisory and Pensions Committee, REMPLOY, Combat Stress, Lowland Reserve Forces and Cadets Association, Be-Inn Unity/Veteran ERV, Who Dares Cares, Veterans Housing Scotland, RBLI Lifeworks, NHS, Defence Business Services, Criminal Justice Services South Lanarkshire Council, Poppy Scotland, Commonwealth War Graves Commission, Kilbryde Hospice Matters considered by the Group in 2025 included Lanarkshire Armed Forces Covenant Guide, overview from Poppy Scotland, review of the Armed Forces website, Presentation from Defence Medical Welfare Service, Fares4free (name changed to Vector24 on 31-01-25), Veterans Scotland, Kilbryde Hospice, Lanarkshire Armed Services Advice, Justice Social Work. It was noted that North Lanarkshire Council had been awarded the Gold Award for their Employer Recognition Scheme in recognition of their commitment to the Armed Forces. 65
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Workstream 4 – Provide the Armed Forces Community with fair access to our services, in particular housing, education, and health and social care Action Service Lead Timescale Update RAG Status March 2026 Creation of Armed Forces Covenant Working Group Head of Administration and Legal Services June 2024, will be removed from Action Plan as now complete As above, formed, and meeting monthly, includes staff from Finance and Corporate Resources, Education Resources, Housing and Technical Resources and the Health and Social Care Partnership. Complete. Establish tracker to monitor housing enquiries Strategy and Policy Adviser, Housing and Technical Resources March 2024, will be removed from Action Plan as tracker now established and operational Tracker established in 2024 that enables individual cases to be escalated and monitored to resolution. Since the tracker was introduced, 9 housing related enquiries have been received directly from or on behalf of veterans (mainly via the Council’s Armed Forces Champion) for some sort of intervention (the tracker does not include general enquiries made via the local housing offices). In general, the nature of the enquiries relate to being housed in South Lanarkshire. Further information on relevant action taken by Housing provided in notes below. Green, ongoing. Undertake review of housing allocation policy Strategy and Policy Adviser, Housing and Technical Resources 2025/2026, will be revised to December 2026 Since August 2010, South Lanarkshire Council’s Housing Allocation Policy has given members of the Armed Forces who meet certain criteria the highest priority for housing, along with homeless applicants and those with an urgent medical need. A key aim of the Council’s approach being to prevent homelessness. Presentation was given on the forthcoming policy review to the Lanarkshire Armed Forces Community and Veterans Covenant Group on 28 January, and at this presentation Council officers emphasised the commitment to, and scope for involvement in, the review and established contact from the group who wished to have a specific Green, ongoing. 66
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meeting to discuss consultative draft. There is intended to be a 3-month public consultation, which will a wide range of internal and external stakeholders including Armed Forces organisations. It is intended that a new policy will be brought forward for approval in Autumn 2026. Maintain accurate SEEMIS data as required by the ADES annual census Partnership Planning Manager, Education Resources October 2025, will revised to December 2026 (and annually) Data from the most recent capture (3rd October 2024) shows that there are 602 children from Armed Forces families being educate in South Lanarkshire schools, 367 in Primary Schools and 235 in Secondary Schools. This is an increase on the 487 recorded as at September 2023. Data from 2025 capture is currently still awaited. These statistics help provide a more accurate understanding of scope and scale of Armed Forces Families pupils in our schools and establishments. Green, ongoing. Engage with the Centre for Military Research, Education and Public Engagement, Edinburgh Napier University and ADES and pupils in South Lanarkshire to identify lived experience and better understand needs Partnership Planning Manager, Education Resources March 2025, will be revised to December 2026 The next Educators Sharing Good Practice event takes place on 19th March in Perth, which the Council will attend. Discussions are ongoing regarding how best to ensure the voice of Armed Forces Families pupils is gathered and used to inform planning and practice. Green, ongoing Provide support and advice regarding education related issues Partnership Planning Manager, Education Resources As and when required Regular articles continue to be included in Education Resources SWAY newsletter to all staff regarding the availability of support and other information for Armed Forces families, e.g. funding opportunities and education related events. Green, ongoing. 67
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The Education Resources actively participates in the ADES led national network to share information, practice and identify issues and solutions to education related barriers. The Education Resource also undertook engagement with children and young people regarding Council budget setting process for 2026-27. The task group worked to ensure priority groups were clearly visible in the process including children and young people from Armed Forces families. Provide support and advice regarding social care issues, including substance use and justice support services HSCP Champion As and when required Justice Social Work Services have an established Veterans in Justice strategy that ensures a trauma informed approach to working with people with veteran experience. The service has established 5 veteran representatives within the service to inform and champion the rights and needs of veterans, sharing best practice and information within the workforce. Further information on relevant action taken by HSCP provided in notes below. Green, ongoing. Notes Housing Housing Allocation Policy Review 2025/26 The Council’s Housing Allocation Policy is currently being reviewed. The consultative draft and questionnaire will be subject to a 3 month public consultation from April to July 2026. The draft policy will be issued to a number of Armed Forces charities and support organisations, including Haig Housing Trust and Soldiers, Sailors and Airmen’s Families Association (SAFFA) for their views and comments, to help shape the finalised policy and ensure that it best serves the local Armed Forces and veterans’ community. The current Housing Allocation Policy awards ‘Urgent Forces’ priority to HM Forces personnel who have completed a minimum of three years’ service or have been injured in combat or discharged on medical grounds and who meet one of the following requirements:- the applicant must have lived in South Lanarkshire prior to the start of service; or 68
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the applicant’s partner must live in South Lanarkshire or previously lived here immediately before the start of service, or marriage/relationship; or the applicant’s parents or kinship care are permanently resident in South Lanarkshire; or the applicant has an offer of full-time employment in South Lanarkshire. Urgent Forces priority can be awarded up to six months before date of discharge and up to six months following the date of discharge and are queued on the Urgent Housing Need list, where applicants with the highest priority for housing are queued. The approach taken in South Lanarkshire has been recognised as an example of good practice within the Scottish Government’s Social Housing Allocation in Scotland, practice guide. Veterans, Housing and Homelessness The Scottish Government recently wrote to all local authorities and housing associations in Scotland, highlighting the obligations for some public bodies under the Armed Forces Covenant to have due regard to the covenant principles when carrying out functions in housing. The letter highlights the recommendations set out in the veterans’ homelessness prevention pathway report and the ongoing commitment by the Scottish Government to raise the profile of veterans’ housing and homelessness issues. The pathway, which was first published 2022, highlights the important role that social landlords play in supporting tenants with experience of the armed forces. The relevant recommendations are: • to include a specific question on veterans on housing application forms to ensure veterans applying for housing are identified and provided with appropriate housing options advice, and to improve data collection; • local authority housing departments and housing associations with more than 2,000 properties should nominate an Armed Forces lead officer within their staff; • all frontline staff in housing or homelessness roles are enabled to develop an awareness of veterans’ issues; • the importance of developing clear strategies for veterans (alongside other potentially vulnerable groups) as they review and update their allocations and homelessness policies, as well as their strategic homelessness plans; and • when reviewing their allocations policy to give priority to service leavers All of the recommendations which relate to social housing are well imbedded within relevant Housing and Technical Resources procedures and policies. In the letter, the Government also advised that Scottish Government officials will be contacting social housing providers to consider how the recommendations might be addressed within their own organisation. 69
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Good Practice Example: The Council’s Armed Forces Champion, Cllr Horsham, contacted housing requesting assistance for re-housing. The army veteran, his wife and adult son require ground floor accommodation as their current home was no longer suitable due to both his wife and son having particular medical needs. A review of their current housing circumstances was undertaken and during discussions with the applicant, he disclosed that he has a confirmed diagnosis of PTSD. The applicant confirmed that he did not openly discuss these difficulties but as a result, his symptoms primarily manifest during the night through nightmares and can disturb his wife. He therefore, frequently sleeps in the living room to avoid causing distress. Following these discussions, a re-assessment of their housing application was undertaken including a completion of a Home and Health Assessment form which included the newly disclosed information as well as other changes in the health of his wife and their son. Following a joint assessment by Housing and Occupational Therapy, the family were awarded urgent medical priority for a 3-bedroom ground floor accommodation – which will provide the applicant with a separate bedroom and now await a suitable offer of housing. Training and Development A Service Development Session was developed and delivered to Housing and Technical Resources staff during the summer of 2025. The session focused on the duties set out in the Armed Forces Community Covenant, the strategy and the associated action plan. Staff were also provided with both the poster and desk aid providing 10 helpful facts to consider about veterans and their families to help them in delivering their services. The session also stressed the key role that housing play in maximising the opportunities available to veterans and ensuring they have the same access to services as others as well as early intervention in the prevention of homelessness. Housing staff have also undertaken the “Understanding the Armed Forces Covenant Duty” e-learning course in December 2025. To date, 328 staff have completed the course, with the remainder due to complete this by the end of the current financial year 2025/26. Housing Options and Housing Support Housing and Technical Resources provide advice and assistance to veterans and current members of the Armed Forces through the Home Options service which provides access to information and advice on a range of housing and related options. This information ensures that there is help and support for veterans to make informed choices about their housing options. When an application for housing is received from a veteran or current member of the Armed Forces, Housing Officers will work with them to understand their needs and provide information and advice on housing options suitable to their circumstances. Housing Support can be provided to veterans or members of the Armed Forces who may need help to prepare for, or manage and sustain their tenancy, by assisting them with developing the skills and confidence for moving into and managing a new home. Where appropriate, referrals may also be made to specialist support services such as Scottish Veterans Housing Association, SAFFA, as well as Citizens Advice and NHS services and the like. 70
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National support and advice The Scottish Government has a dedicated area on its website for veterans and has also published a document for Veterans called ‘Scottish Housing guide for people leaving the Armed Forces and ex-service personnel’ which is also referenced on the South Lanarkshire Council website. South Lanarkshire has been recognised as a good practice case study for veterans on the Scottish Government website for prioritising veterans within its Allocation Policy. In addition, the Scottish Government also acknowledged South Lanarkshire’s Housing Allocation Policy within the document which accompanies the third annual update to the Scottish Parliament in 2019 on the support for our veterans and the Armed Forces community in Scotland. Customer Engagement We recognise that the best way to ensure that customers are involved in shaping our housing services is to work in partnership and build on existing relationships. This approach is also in line with the council values outlined in Connect 2022-2027:- 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 More recently, Military Matters, part of Housing Options Scotland, contributed to the development of the Local Housing Strategy 2022-27 and, we contacted a number of armed forced and veterans’ organisations to help inform our Customer Involvement Strategy 2024-29. This is the fifth strategy prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Housing (Scotland) Act 2001. This strategy aims to build upon the achievements of our previous Customer Involvement Strategy and sets out our continued commitment to engaging and involving customers in shaping housing services. Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP) As noted above, South Lanarkshire Council Justice Services have established 5 Veteran’s Representatives within Justice Social Work to promote awareness of veteran related issues and to support up to date information on services available to veterans and their families. Workers will be able to contact their representative for advice and guidance on working with any veterans and their families they have on their caseload. It is envisaged this will help inform future planning around veteran support services across our workforce. South Lanarkshire Justice Social Work continues to develop its service to support veterans in conflict with the law. A key plank of this work are our Veterans Representatives, five staff members with either lived experience with the armed forces or interest is this area of work. The Representatives are first point of contact for different parts of the service – offering advice and guidance to workers with veterans on their caseload. They also attend Team Meetings to raise awareness of veteran related issues; maintain list of veterans support services in the area and support referrals to these services. This year, the Representatives have developed practice guidance for all staff on supporting veterans and have also carried out a survey of caseloads to identify and offer support to known veterans currently open to our service. 71
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Looking ahead, South Lanarkshire Justice Social Work have applied for funding to the Scottish Government Veterans Fund for a dedicated Veterans Support Worker. This post would involve identifying veterans at an early stage, deliver specialist case management for veterans and facilitate specialist groupwork for veterans open to our service. We are currently awaiting an outcome for this application. Although delivered by NHS Lanarkshire, as distinct from the Council, V1P (Veterans’ First Point) has provided a bespoke mental health support service for veterans (and their families where eligible) to assist the individuals in managing their service-related mental health issues. The service also benefits from a peer support worker network, linking them with suitable voluntary/support services in the community as well as ensuring the person gets to the necessary appointments and able to access any follow up treatment plans. The HSCP also works with the Defence Medical Welfare Service (MDWS) which aims to provide support to older veterans and their families. This can assist in the provision of equipment to assist in daily life; financial support to undertake house alterations; holidays/respite breaks and things to support the veterans in later life. The ‘Armed Forces and Veterans’ Champion’ for NHS Lanarkshire assists in facilitating priority access to services where eligible to ensure that NHSL (and the HSCP) is complying with the Armed Forces Covenant Duty. As well as specific access issues, this can also often involve working across services and different agencies such that the individual – and/or their families – receive a ‘joined–up’ approach to service delivery. Like the Council, NHS Lanarkshire is also a recipient of the Gold Award for supporting Armed Forces personnel and Veterans in the workplace. Money Matters The Council’s Money Matters service provides support, advice and representation regarding Benefits and Welfare Rights, Energy Efficiency and Debt Management as well as Budgeting Support. All advice is provided to an accredited National Standards Level. In 2025, Money Matters assisted 196 people who were either current (2%) or former (87%) members of the Armed Forces, or the family (11%) of one. This is compared to 2024 (July onwards, which is when veteran status started being checked) when Money Matters assisted 181 people who were either current (5%) or former (84%) members of the Armed Forces, or the family (11%) of one. Procurement As an additional action in 2025, Procurement are now including additional provision in relevant tenders to promote the Covenant to suppliers and through the Procurement Network. 72
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Workstream 5 – Promote and support local Armed Forces events and military heritage sites Action Service Lead Timescale Update RAG Status March 2026 Armed Forces Day Flag Raising Ceremony Members’ Services Officer June every year Held in June 2025. Attended by Veterans from the British Legion and Cameronians. Air and Army Cadets in attendance. Civic Hospitality was provided following the ceremony and was attended by approximately 50 guests. Green, ongoing, complete for 2025 Festival of Remembrance Members’ Services Officer November every year Held in November 2025, in tandem with the British Legion. A Drumhead Service and Remembrance performances from local schools was held in the Hamilton Townhouse. The Air, Army and Sea Cadets were in attendance along with Veterans and Miliary Officers. Green, ongoing, complete for 2025 Larkhall Remembrance Sunday Members’ Services Officer November every year Held in November 2025. Parade and Remembrance Service followed by wreath laying. Green, ongoing, complete for 2025 East Kilbride Remembrance Sunday Members’ Services Officer November every year Held in November 2025. Parade and Remembrance Service followed by a Church Service. Green, ongoing, complete for 2025 Hamilton Remembrance Sunday Members’ Services Officer November every year Held in November 2025. Parade followed by Remembrance Service and Wreath laying attended by Provost and Vice Lord Lieutenant. Hospitality following the service in the Banqueting Hall for 250 Cadets/Veterans and 50 VIPS in Committee Room 1 Green, ongoing, complete for 2025 Armistice Day Service Members’ Services Officer November every year Held in November 2025. Service at the VC Memorial attended by the Depute Provost and Lieutenancy. Green, ongoing, complete for 2025 80th Anniversary VE Day Celebration Members’ Services Officer Undertaken in May 2025, one off event. Held in Hamilton 8th May 2025. Provost leads VE Day 80th anniversary event - South Lanarkshire View Complete. 73
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Agenda Item International Women’s Day 2026 “Give to Gain” Notice of Motion Motion received in terms of Standing Order No 21 on 24 February 2026, proposed by Councillor Mary Donnelly, seconded by Councillor Andrea Cowan, as follows:- “Council notes: That International Women’s Day 2026 is marked under the theme “Give to Gain”, recognising that equality strengthens communities and that empowering women, children, and young people benefits all of South Lanarkshire. The essential work of our third sector partners including Women’s Aid South Lanarkshire and East Renfrewshire (WASLER) in providing refuge, advocacy, crisis support, and long term assistance to women, children, and young people experiencing domestic abuse. The leadership of the South Lanarkshire Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Partnership, which delivers a coordinated, multiagency approach to prevention, early intervention, and cultural change. The progressive work being undertaken through South Lanarkshire Council’s Fund to Leave pilot exercise, which is providing vital financial support enabling women and families to safely exit abusive situations and rebuild their lives. That visibility, mentorship, and challenging bias are key to creating a fair, inclusive, and safe South Lanarkshire for all. Council believes: When women thrive, the whole of South Lanarkshire rises — socially, economically, and culturally. That preventing and responding to violence against women and girls requires sustained partnership working, trauma -informed practice, and adequate resourcing. Supporting women, children, and young people to leave abusive situations is a moral and social responsibility. Providing visibility, support, and opportunities to women and girls creates long-term gains for the entire community. Council resolves to: 1. Publicly support International Women’s Day 2026 by promoting the theme “Give to Gain” across all Council communication channels. 2. Encourage donations to our third sector providers including WASLER, recognising their critical role in supporting women, children, and young people across South Lanarkshire and East Renfrewshire. 3. Strengthen the rollout of unconscious bias training for all Council employees to promote fairness, respect, and inclusive practice. 4. Work closely with the South Lanarkshire VAWG Partnership to increase awareness of all local supports available to help women, children and young people safely exit abusive situations. 5. Note the progressive work being undertaken through the Council’s ‘Fund to Leave’ pilot exercise, and await the feedback from the pilot. 7 75
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6. Deliver an internal campaign through the Gender-Based Violence Unit, highlighting the achievements of female employees and raising awareness of the challenges women continue to face. 7. Promote mentorship opportunities across Council departments to support the development of future female leaders. 8. Commit to giving visibility to women’s contributions across South Lanarkshire, recognising that when women succeed, the whole community gains.” 76
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Agenda Item After School Provision in South Lanarkshire Notice of Motion Motion received in terms of Standing Order No 21 on 24 February 2026, proposed by Councillor Joe Fagan, seconded by Councillor Lynsey Hamilton, as follows:- “The Council notes the range of after-school care provided across South Lanarkshire, including provision on the Council estate, and considers that good-quality after-school care can enhance communities, support families and improve outcomes for children and young people. The Council further notes the range of providers and models of provision available across Scotland, including not-for-profit provision. The Council commits to working with partners, including South Lanarkshire Leisure and Culture, to create a supportive environment for after-school provision to emerge across South Lanarkshire, subject to legal and commercial constraints, and requests that a report be brought forward to a future meeting of the Executive Committee addressing:- 1. The extent and mix of after school provision across South Lanarkshire. 2. Current and emerging issues in the development of after school provision. 3. Steps the Council can take to support the development of after school provision, including on the council-owned estate. 4. The potential for Community Wealth Building approaches to support new after-school provision.” 8 77
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Report Agenda Item Report to: South Lanarkshire Council Date of Meeting: 11 March 2026 Report by: Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) Subject: Touch a Life, Make a Difference Initiative – Update 1. Purpose of Briefing Note 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 the update on the Touch a Life, Make a Difference initiative be noted; and (2) that the distribution of the donations generated by the initiative in 2025, as summarised in section 4.4, be noted. [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). 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 9 79
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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. 3.6. On 1 October 2025, the Council received an update on the initiative, including details of 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, and approved one-off donation of £500 to Unison’s transportation of surplus gym equipment to Ukraine, as a further beneficiary for 2025. It was intended that an update would be reported to the December meeting of the Council, but it was felt more appropriate to bring this forward once the final donations from 2025 were known. 4. Proposal 4.1. Following the completion of the fundraising work in 2025, the initiative raised approximately £24,400 in 2025. This was mainly through the February 2025 Burns Supper, and the October concert in Hamilton. 4.2. Further to the October 2025 report, the £5,000 pledge to Sense Scotland has been paid out, enabling the charity to take advantage of the previously reported match funding which was available, meaning Sense Scotland received £10,000. 4.3. Given this, and the previously approved donation of £500 to Unison’s Ukraine fundraising, there is a balance of £18,940 available to be shared between the remaining approved beneficiaries. 4.4. Following consultation with the Provost and Group Leaders, the Chief Executive has used the delegated authority agreed by the Council in February 2025 to decide on the approach for the sharing of the donations as follows, and the distribution of these funds has commenced:- Sense Scotland – £5k (as noted above, which has resulted in a £10k donation) Guide Dogs - £10k (so equivalent to the sum Sense Scotland received through match funding) Unison – £500 (as noted above) Hamilton Churches Drop In Centre – £1,490 Bothwell Futures – £1,490 The Haven Centre, Forth – £1,490 East Kilbride and District Dementia Carers Group – £1,490 Who Dares Cares – £1,490 Rutherglen Community Carers - £1,490 4.5. In the usual way, the Provost will be hosting the Provost’s Community Awards later in the year, and each elected member will have the opportunity to nominate two individuals or groups to be recognised for their contribution to the community. Further details will be issued by the Provost’s Office once a date has been confirmed. 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. 80
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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 Arrangements 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) 2 February 2026 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 South Lanarkshire Council 1 October 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 81
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