Agenda reports pack
Argyll and Bute Council · 7 February 2023
Back to Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group — 7 February 2023 and its agenda
Text extracted from the council's PDF. Layout and reading order may differ from the original.
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Kilmory, Lochgilphead, PA31 8RT Tel: 01546 602127 Fax: 01546 604435 DX 599700 LOCHGILPHEAD 31 January 2023 NOTICE OF MEETING A meeting of the BUTE AND COWAL COMMUNITY PLANNING GROUP will be held BY MICROSOFT TEAMS on TUESDAY, 7 FEBRUARY 2023 at 10:00 AM, which you are requested to attend. Douglas Hendry Executive Director BUSINESS 1. WELCOME AND APOLOGIES 2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST 3. MINUTES (a) Meeting of the Bute and Cowal Community Planning Group held on 1 November 2022 (Pages 5 - 12) 4. GOVERNANCE (a) Area Community Planning Group Governance Arrangements (Pages 13 - 24) Report by Committee Manager (b) Appointment of Vice-Chair of the Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group (Pages 25 - 26) Report by Committee Manager 5. COMMUNITY PLANNING PARTNERSHIP MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE UPDATE (Pages 27 - 30) Report by Committee Manager Public Document Pack
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6. PARTNERS UPDATE (a) Police Scotland Update (Pages 31 - 34) (b) Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Update (Pages 35 - 40) (c) Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership - Public Health Update (Pages 41 - 44) (d) UHI Argyll - Rothesay and Dunoon Update (Pages 45 - 46) (e) Live Argyll - Community Learning Services Update (Pages 47 - 48) (f) Department for Work and Pensions Update (Pages 49 - 56) (g) Argyll and Bute TSI Update (Pages 57 - 60) (h) Argyll and Bute Citizens Advice Bureau Update (Pages 61 - 62) (i) Scenic Sandbank Update (Pages 63 - 64) (j) Isle of Bute Business Improvement District (BID) Update (Pages 65 - 68) (k) Colintraive & Glendaruel Development Trust - Cost Of Living Crisis (Verbal Update) (l) Opportunity for verbal updates by Community Planning Partners 7. SHAPING PLACES FOR WELLBEING Presentation by Project Lead – Dunoon 8. COMMUNITY FOCUS (a) Strachur Men's Shed 9. CLIMATE CHANGE (a) Climate Change Working Group Highlight Report (Pages 69 - 70) Report by Chair of Climate Change Working Group (b) Home Energy Efficiency Presentation by Home Energy Efficiency Project Officer (c) Opportunity for verbal updates on community based initiatives 10. DATE OF NEXT MEETING The next meeting will take place on Tuesday 2 May 2023 at 10am.
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Bute and Cowal Community Planning Group Contact: Julieann Small, Senior Committee Assistant - 01546 604043
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MINUTES of MEETING of BUTE AND COWAL COMMUNITY PLANNING GROUP held BY MICROSOFT TEAMS on TUESDAY, 1 NOVEMBER 2022 Present: Councillor Liz McCabe (Chair) Stuart McLean, Committee Manager, Argyll and Bute Council Ailie Law, Community Development Officer, Argyll and Bute Council Rhona Grant, Community Learning Service, Live Argyll Jen Broadhurst, Argyll and Bute Citizens Advice Bureau Alex Wilde, Shaping Places for Wellbeing Lead, Improvement Service PC Laura Evans, Police Scotland Sergeant Eddie McGunnigal, Police Scotland Watch Commander Barry Colvan, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Laura Stephenson, Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership Sandy McLeod, Argyll and Bute Third Sector Interface Iona McPhail, Fyne Homes Robert Beauchamp, Centre for Economics and Business Research Councillor Gordon Blair Theresa Bain, Argyll College UHI Michelle Mundie, Chief Executive, Argyll Community Housing Association Ltd Garrick Collier, Argyll Community Housing Association Ltd Andrew Galloway, Local Democracy Reporter, Argyll and Bute Reeni Kennedy-Boyle, Fyne Futures Lauren Worrell, NFU Scotland Laura Walker, Strachur Joint Efforts Angela Anderson, Time for Change Dr Lynda Mitchell, ALIenergy 1. WELCOME AND APOLOGIES Stuart McLean welcomed everyone to the meeting and highlighted that Alastair Moodie had resigned as role of Vice-Chair. He added that a report would be considered at the next meeting seeking nominations to this position. Partners were encouraged to consider whether this is a role that they would be interested in fulfilling and if so to please contact him for further details. In the absence of Charles Dixon-Spain, Councillor Liz McCabe chaired the meeting. Apologies for absence were intimated on behalf of: Charles Dixon-Spain (Chair); Susan MacRae Skills Development Scotland; and John Weir, Bute BID Manager 2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST There were no declarations of interest. Public Document PackPage 5 Agenda Item 3a
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3. MINUTES (a) Meeting of the Bute and Cowal Community Planning Group held on 16 August 2022 The minutes of the Bute and Cowal Planning Group meeting held on Tuesday, 16 August 2022 were approved as a correct record. The Chair ruled, and the Community Planning Group agreed, to a variation in the order of business to allow Partner attendance. The minute reflects the order in which items were discussed. . 4. CEBR - THE SOCIO-ECONOMIC IMPACT OF CALMAC FERRIES The Group considered a presentation by Robert Beachaump. It was highlighted that the Phase 2 report was an quantitative analysis of the impacts of CalMac as a company (employment, Gross Value Added, turnover, and employee compensation supported directly and through the supply chain) and of impacts of service levels on island communities (ferry users’ welfare, economic activity, employment, population), based on Phase 1 findings, desk research, analysis, fieldwork, and socio-economic modelling. Councillor Gordon Blair highlighted that the Dunoon to Gourock passenger ferry is in need of improvement. Reeni Kennedy-Boyle advised that the report didn’t seem to have much input from Bute, adding that only 1 major employer was involved and highlighted that Bute’s economy is based on small businesses or family businesses who rely on Calmac for their supply chain. Robert added that they had had some good conversations on Bute but added that they were time limited. Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. (Reference: Report by Senior Economist Centre for Economics and Business Research, submitted) 5. COMMUNITY FOCUS (a) Strachur Joint Efforts Laura Walker from Strachur Joint Efforts provided the Group with a Presentation. She highlighted that Strachur Community Council had received ten thousand pounds from the Big Lottery Fund to create opportunities for the young people in the area. Page 6
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Laura highlighted some of the events and activities that have subsequently been created including a pop up café every 3 weeks – with different themes for each and opportunities to develop skills such as cooking, customer service and budgeting. Laura added that this project would provide young people with qualifications to add to their CV such as a food hygiene certificate or 90 hours of volunteering award. Discussion was had around the support of the community and the possibility of community group’s collaborations. Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. (Reference: Verbal report by Laura Walker, Strachur Joint Efforts) 6. COMMUNITY PLANNING PARTNERSHIP MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE UPDATE Consideration was given to a briefing note which provided information on matters discussed during a meeting of the Community Planning Partnership (CPP) Management Committee, held on 6 October 2022. Stuart McLean, spoke to the report and highlighted updates on topics including the Shaping Places for Wellbeing Dunoon Project; the CPP Annual Report and the cost of living crisis and the support available from within the Council. Decision The Bute and Cowal Community Planning Group considered and noted the briefing note. (Reference: Report by Shona Barton, Governance Manager, Argyll and Bute Council, dated 1 November 2022, submitted) 7. PARTNERS UPDATE (a) Police Scotland Update Consideration was given to an update by Sergeant Eddie McGunnigal and PC Laura Evans. The update included information relating to personnel changes within the locality which included a new inspector, 2 new probationers and 2 new experienced officers. Sergeant McGunnigal also advised that a new Youth Engagement Officer had been recruited who will work closely with schools and that the Service was currently looking to recruit youth and adult volunteers. Officers are continuing to undertake speed detection duties at local schools and are actively promoting the “Don’t Be That Guy” campaign. Page 7
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PC Laura Evans highlighted the new Dementia Safeguarding Tag which the Service aims to launch by the end of November with support from Alzheimer Scotland. General awareness raising material around the Tag would be circulated to Partners after the meeting. PC Evans added that the Local Policing Plan consultation was soon to be launched. This would also be distributed to the Partners once available. Discussion took place around drug abuse in the Cowal area. It was highlighted that these operations are intelligence led and that they are dependent on the community to report instances to allow the Service to respond. Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. (Reference: Report by PC Laura Evans, Police Scotland, submitted) (b) Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Update The Group considered a report highlighting the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s (SFRS) FQ2 review of local performance across Bute and Cowal for the period 2022-23. The report included information on the local firefighter training plan, incidents during this time period and recent community engagement activities. Decision The Bute and Cowal Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. (Reference: Report by Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, submitted) (c) Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership - Public Health Update The Group considered a public health update. Laura Stephenson from HSCP was in attendance to speak to the update. She highlighted the Public Health Team Annual Report for 2021-2022 and the Living Well Mid- Strategy Report for 2019 – 2021. Discussion was had around social prescribing, Laura highlighted that she was happy to pass the contact details of the officer leading to Fyne Future. Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. Page 8
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(Reference: Report by Health Improvement Lead, Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership, submitted) (d) Argyll and Bute TSI Update The Group gave consideration to an update by Sandy McLeod of Argyll and Bute TSI which included information on the positive feedback received regarding the Community Directory; the conversation café hosted ahead of the launch of the next round of Communities Mental Health & Wellbeing Funding; the Positive Destination Scheme; volunteer events held to encourage new volunteers for organisations and free online training available for volunteers and staff members of organisations. Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. (Reference: Report by Argyll and Bute TSI, submitted) (e) Department for Work and Pensions Update The Group gave consideration to an update from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) providing statistical information on the number of customers claiming universal credit and legacy benefits; job seekers allowance; employment and support allowance; and income support. The report also covered information on recruitment events held by Rothesay and Dunoon Job centres; the new telephone shared line number with New Style Employment & Support Allowance; fuel direct; broadband social tariff; health adjustment passports; managed moves to Universal Credit; the influx of pension credit claims; disability cost of living payment stakeholder toolkit; cost of living payment; Government plans to cut energy bills; the raised Administrative Earnings Threshold; Personal Independence Payment (PIP) claims and Adult Disability Payments (ADP). There was no one in attendance from the DWP to present the report. Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. (Reference: Report by Employer & Partnership Manager, Department for Work and Pensions, submitted) (f) Live Argyll - Community Learning Services Update The Group considered an update from Rhona Grant, Live Argyll - Community Learning Service, which provided information relating to SAWA project Bute, including children arts class which are now taking place at the Bank of Ideas; an International Day which was held on Page 9
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Thursday 13th October in Greentree Café; a planned bike repair class and the two day Apple Project which volunteers and refugees took part in. The update also highlighted information on Youth Services in Cowal and Dunoon which included The Give Programme that ran over the October Holidays in Dunoon; a girls group which meet every Wednesday evening; Dunoon’s partnership with Active Schools and DGS on a Healthy Me programme and a residential which took place in September. Discussion took place in regards to Dunoon Grammar Schools success and the new garden project. Rhona highlighted that the success raised a lot of positivity around older pupils. Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. (Reference: Report by Team Leader – Community Learning Services, Live Argyll, submitted) (g) Opportunity for verbal updates by Community Planning Partners Fyne Futures Reeni Kennedy Boyle of Fyne Futures provided the Group with a verbal update including information on the volunteer programme which is going very strong; ongoing collaboration work with a variety organisations; the employability programme extension; and the environmental work that had been completed. Discussion took place regarding the climate change training which some Councillors had received, it was highlighted that they found it very interesting. Partners were anxious that this be provided to a wider audience. Shaping Places for Wellbeing Alex Wilde, Shaping Places for Wellbeing Project Lead – Dunoon provided the Group with a verbal update including information on a new Community Link Lead for Dunoon and that the Project is still identifying key areas of inequality. Alex advised that she had positive conversations with some partners after the last meeting and invited any other partners interested in the Project to get in touch. Alex referred to an action from the last meeting regarding data used to inform the project, she advised that she is still waiting on a reply and will update at the next meeting. Page 10
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8. FYNE HOMES UPDATE The group considered an update from Iona MacPhail, Chief Executive of Fyne Homes. The update included information on the AGM held in October; property lets for 2021/2022; maintenance and Fyne Futures. Iona highlighted that Fyne Homes is unique due to its 3 Wind Turbines which are situated in Glenbarr and added that profits are distributed between Fyne Homes, Fyne Futures and the Community of Glenbarr. Discussion was had around sustainability and Iona highlighted that new builds are being developed to a high quality and the challenge will be for retrofitting. Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. (Reference: Report by Chief Executive, Fyne Homes, submitted) 9. CLIMATE CHANGE (a) Report by Chair of Climate Change Working Group Consideration was given to a report which highlighted the ongoing work of the Climate Change Working Group. The report outlined the proposal to produce a strategic Action Plan as a means to address the climate emergency in Argyll and Bute; the development of governance arrangements and structures to support the Climate Change Project Officer post. Information was also provided on the funding options for the project. Discussion was had around the shortfall of funding required. Angela Anderson highlighted the importance of securing the funding to ensure overall coordination of the project. Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. (Reference: Report by Stan Phillips, Chair of the Climate Change Working Group, submitted) (b) Opportunity for verbal updates on community based initiatives There were no verbal updates provided under this item. (c) Time for change Argyll and Bute update The Group considered an update by Angela Anderson from Time for Change Argyll and Bute. Angela advised that Time for Change is a group Page 11
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of residents who are campaigning to raise awareness of climate change. Angela highlighted that as a group they are increasingly concerned with the need to build resilience in all areas and communities in Argyll and Bute. She added that they had received a great response from organisations during the pandemic but advised that with the current economic, energy and climate situation greater partnership working should be encouraged. Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. (Reference: Report by Angela Anderson, Time for Change Argyll and Bute, submitted) 10. ALIENERGY UPDATE An update was considered by the group from Dr Lynda Mitchell from ALIenergy on the affordable warmth services provided. The update included information on what they are working on including Affordable Warmth, Education, and Local Energy Projects. The update also included information on fuel poverty around Scotland with communities within Argyll and Bute being rated as one of the most at risk. It was also highlighted that the majority of households across North West Scotland are now likely to be suffering with fuel poverty or will in the near future. It was also highlighted that oil is not a problem as it is considerably cheaper than electric heating. Dr Mitchell advised that ALIenergy can access a number of main interventions for clients experiencing energy cost crisis such as the Fuel Bank Foundation; Scottish Government Home Heating Support Fund; Glasspool Trust; Argyll and Bute Council Flexible Fund and Argyll and Bute Flexible Food Fund. Discussion was had around contacting electricity suppliers being very time consuming especially for vulnerable people. Lynda highlighted that although ALIenergy have some fast track numbers for companies it is quicker to use the providers online chat if available. Decision The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided. (Reference: Report by Dr Lynda Mitchell, Manager, ALIenergy) 11. DATE OF NEXT MEETING The Chair thanked everyone in attendance at the meeting, and thanked all partners for their continued proactive work in the community. The Group noted that the next meeting of the Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group would take place on Tuesday, 7 February 2022 at 10am. Page 12
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Argyll and Bute Community Planning Partnership Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group 07 February 2023 Area Community Planning Group Governance Arrangements Summary The report asks the Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group to review the current Terms of Reference, the membership of the Group and also asks members to note the dates for meeting up until May 2024. 1. Purpose 1.1 The purpose of this report is to confirm the governance arrangements of the Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group (Area CPG) specifically the Terms of Reference, membership and note future meeting dates. 2. Recommendations 2.1 Area CPG members are requested to: Consider and adopt the Terms of Reference submitted in this report (Appendix 1) and to agree that these be reviewed on an annual basis to ensure their ongoing currency and appropriateness for the work of the Area CPG as it develops over time. Consider and agree the membership of the group as attached (Appendix 2) and to agree that the membership of the group be reviewed on an annual basis to ensure currency and appropriateness for the work of the group as it develops over time. To note the future meeting dates submitted in this report. 3. Detail 3.1 The Area CPG Terms of Reference were last reviewed and agreed in February 2022. An updated version, which has been amended to Page 13 Agenda Item 4a
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reflect some changes in language and terminology, is attached at Appendix 1. 3.2 The membership of the Area CPG was last reviewed in February 2022. The Area CPG are asked to consider whether any changes should be made to the membership, details of which are attached at Appendix 2. 3.3 The membership will be reviewed on an annual basis to ensure currency and appropriateness for the work of the group as it develops over time, however there is provision for additional organisations to join the group at any stage to accommodate local circumstances. 3.4 Historically meeting dates for Area Community Planning Groups are scheduled approximately half way between the programmed meetings of the Community Planning Partnership Management Committees to enable effective and timeous reporting of matters to that committee. Members are therefore asked to note that the meeting dates for the Bute and Cowal Area CPG for 2023/24 will be:- Tuesday 2 May 2023 Tuesday 15 August 2023 Tuesday 6 November 2023 Tuesday 6 February 2024 Tuesday 30 April 2024 4. Conclusion 4.1 Given the development of Local Action Plans and the future focus of the work of Area Community Planning Groups the meeting is asked to review and agree the attached Terms of Reference and the current membership. 5. SOA Outcomes Not applicable. The report relates to the administration of the Area CPG. For further information please contact: Stuart McLean, Committee Manager, Argyll and Bute Council Tel 01436 658 717 Appendix 1 – Terms of Reference Appendix 2 – Membership list Page 14
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Terms of Reference Version 1.7 February 23 Page 1 Argyll and Bute Community Planning Partnership Terms of Reference: Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group is a sub group of, and reports to, the Argyll and Bute Community Planning Partnership’s Management Committee. It is an unincorporated partnership of agencies and organisations with membership drawn from the public sector, third sector, private sector, community organisations and partnerships that have an interest in Bute and Cowal. Purpose Argyll & Bute is a large and diverse area. Communities inevitably have different issues even within the overall umbrella of a community plan for the whole area. Area Community Planning Groups are the vehicle to ensure that there is effective community planning delivery, as set out in the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015, at a local level by: Contributing to the oversight role of the whole partnership by highlighting issues of a partnership nature that cannot be resolved locally through the Area Community Planning Group, to the Community Planning Partnership Management Committee. Acting on behalf of the Community Planning Partnership via its Management Committee to oversee the implementation of Community Planning Action Plans (known as ‘locality plans’ within the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015). Acting on behalf of the community to ensure that local concerns and priorities are highlighted to the Community Planning Partnership’s Management Committee. Role The role of the Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group is to: • Oversee the development and implementation of the Community Planning Action Plan for Bute and Cowal • Encourage effective working across community planning partners at an area level • Act as a conduit to ensure that local priorities are met and local issues addressed through partnership working Remit The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group has the authority to: • contribute to the development of a Community Planning Action Plan for Bute and Cowal • monitor progress of the Community Planning Action Plan for Bute and Cowal • provide the scrutiny role for the Community Planning Partnership within Bute and Cowal considering regular performance monitoring reports and providing information to the Management Committee by submitting written reports on challenges that cannot be Page 15
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Terms of Reference Version 1.7 February 23 Page 2 resolved locally; where these challenges relate to partnership working and not single agencies. A representative of a community group or statutory body or business that is not a member of the group may also attend a meeting, with prior agreement from the chair, to provide additional information should a specific issue of concern to the group be scheduled as an agenda item. • form short term working groups to undertake defined pieces of work as required by the group • engage with communities within Bute and Cowal to understand their needs • inform and consult on issues relating to Community Planning at an area level • contribute to a Community Planning annual report for Argyll and Bute on progress on the agreed outcomes and best practice in partnership working. Short Term Working Groups Short Term Working Groups initiated by the Bute and Cowal area Community Planning Group must: be approved at a meeting of the Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group and its purpose recorded in the minute of the meeting, with clarity on the objective and output of the group and the start and end date of the work. have a named member of the Bute and Cowal area Community Planning Group acting as lead officer for the group. have a list of members of the group agreed at inception. have an appropriate source of administrative support identified and agreed at inception Where relevant, have an appropriate funding package identified at inception and a named member of the short term working group undertaking financial responsibility for the initiative provide regular reports of activity and progress to the Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group; and in updates to the Management Committee any changes to the above must be approved by the Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group and recorded in the minute of the meeting Equal Opportunities & Fairer Scotland Duty The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group will ensure that equal opportunities are considered in each of their remitted activities, any expected negative impacts are mitigated and that promotion of equal opportunities is central to its on-going activities. In doing so The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group will consider the responsibilities placed on it by The Fairer Scotland Duty. This duty places a legal responsibility on particular public bodies in Scotland to pay due regard to (actively consider) how they can reduce inequalities of outcome, caused by socio-economic disadvantage, when making strategic decisions. Criteria for Membership • Membership is drawn from public sector, third sector, private sector, community organisations and partnerships operating within the Bute and Cowal area. • Membership is open to all organisations public sector, third sector, private sector, community organisations and partnerships operating within the Bute and Cowal area Page 16
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Terms of Reference Version 1.7 February 23 Page 3 with an interest in at least one of the outcomes identified in the Argyll and Bute Outcome Improvement Plan. • Organisations can self-nominate, be invited to join or have a statutory obligation to participate. • In order to ensure democratic accountability, the Chair and Vice Chair from the Argyll & Bute Council, Bute and Cowal Area Committee and, one other Elected Member from an Argyll & Bute Council Bute and Cowal Area Committee Ward not already represented by the Chair or Vice Chair will sit as members of the group. In order to ensure democratic accountability, community councils situated with in the Bute and Cowal area will sit as a member of the group. Subject to local needs, this may be individual community councils, or by way of a caucus arrangement agreed by the community councils situated within the Bute and Cowal area, or alternatively one community council representing all of the community councils on a rotational basis. The community council undertaking this role will be nominated by the other community councils within the area on an annual basis or more frequently if agreed locally. • In order to comply with legislation which governs Community Planning in Scotland, some organisations have a statutory obligation to participate in community planning. The organisation will nominate the most appropriate person within their organisation to sit as a member of the group where relevant. • In order to reflect the needs of the community and range of activities covered by the Area Community Planning Action Plan, other organisations and partnerships operating within the local area are also able to sit as members of the group. • In order to obtain a balanced representation of the above and to ensure a community focussed approach, a ratio of no more than 50% public sector membership should be maintained throughout the lifetime of the group. • The representatives ought to be able to speak on behalf of their organisation and where appropriate commit funding and other resources to local partnership activity. • Membership should reflect the needs of the community and can therefore change subject to approval by a simple majority vote of the other members of the group. Role of Members Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group members have the following responsibilities: • To consistently attend the scheduled Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group meetings. (Consistency in attendance by members is necessary to build momentum and progress the activities of the group). • Appoint a substitute to attend meetings on their behalf if they are unable to attend. Page 17
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Terms of Reference Version 1.7 February 23 Page 4 • To communicate information relating to the Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group with other members and officers within their own organisation and other organisations operating within the area of activity they represent. • To communicate information relating to their organisations area of activity to other members of the Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group at meetings. • To raise community planning related issues (that is issues related to Argyll and Bute Community Planning Partnership’s Local Outcome Improvement Plan) on behalf of the community at Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group meetings. • To contribute to the development, on-going monitoring and review of the Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Action Plan. • To participate in short term working groups as required. Meetings Chair • The Chair and Vice Chair of the Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group will be elected by the members of the group and will be appointed for a period of two years. • The outgoing Chair and Vice Chair can stand for re-election at the end of the two year period. • However, no one person can serve in the role of Chair or Vice Chair for more than two consecutive two year periods • Should either the Chair or Vice Chair resign their position during their term of office, the office bearer must either notify the group in person at a scheduled Area CPG meeting or contact the chair in writing advising formally of their intention to stand down. Members will be advised of the resignation timeously and an election to fill the vacant post will be conducted at the next scheduled Area CPG meeting • Nominations for the Chair and Vice Chair positions will be proposed and seconded by Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group members. Each member will have one vote and a simple majority vote will determine the outcome of the election process. • The elected Chair, or in their absence, the Vice-Chair shall preside over the meeting. If both are absent, partners will choose a member from the floor to preside. • Members should respect the authority of the Chair who will decide matters of order, competency, relevancy and urgency. Quorum • The quorum for a meeting will be 5. • If a quorum is not present within 10 minutes of the scheduled start of a meeting or if at any point after a meeting has commenced attendance falls below the quorum the meeting will be declared inquorate. • If a quorum is not present, at the Chairperson’s / Vice-Chairperson’s discretion, the meeting shall proceed and any decisions taken will be homologated at the next meeting. • For purposes of the quorum, participation of partners by video-conferencing or telephone conference links will be considered as present. Frequency of Meetings • The Area Community Planning Groups of the CPP will normally meet once each quarter (4 times each year). • These meetings will normally be held in February, May, August and November. Page 18
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Terms of Reference Version 1.7 February 23 Page 5 • Where business requires, further meetings can be called with agreement of the Chair subject to the required notice being given. Conduct of Meetings Meetings of the Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group will be held in public. Observers can only participate in discussion with the agreement of Chair. Members must declare any conflict of interests at the start of a meeting and take no part in the consideration of the relevant item. Observers wishing to participate in discussion must declare any interest in the subject under discussion. All meetings will be minuted and a minute made available through the Council’s website and available from a link through the community planning partnership website. Meetings of the Area Community Planning Groups will be conducted in accordance with the lead partner‘s (Argyll & Bute Council) standing orders for meetings subject to any necessary changes as set out above (mutatis mutandis). Decision making • All members of the group have equal status • Each member has one vote • The Chair retains the casting vote • All decisions must be clearly minuted with a brief summary of the discussion and reason for decision recorded as well as the outcome • The minutes should clearly record who or whatever organisation is responsible for action • Observers and persons attending the meeting in an advisory capacity may provide information but are not part of the decision making process and are not able to participate in a vote Accountability The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group is an integral part of Community Planning in Argyll & Bute and is accountable to the following bodies: • Full Community Planning Partnership via the Management Committee • Community within its local area Support The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group will be supported by: • A Lead Officer to facilitate and promote the smooth operation of the group and work closely with group members to ensure a supportive structure, which responds to the needs of the members in addressing issues. • Administrative support, organising meetings, taking minutes and associated administrative support will be provided by Argyll and Bute Council, Legal and Regulatory Support. • A Local Community Development Officer will have a key role, working in partnership with organisations in the support of community groups, organisations and individuals, particularly those who do not traditionally engage in community issues, to participate in local community planning. Page 19
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Terms of Reference Version 1.7 February 23 Page 6 Issue of Papers • The agenda and papers for the Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group will normally be issued 7 days prior to the date of the meeting. • The Chair can agree to accept late papers. • The draft Agenda detail will normally be circulated four weeks in advance to allow members to propose items for inclusion • The agenda and papers will be published on the Argyll & Bute Community Planning Partnership website, the Argyll & Bute Council website and available from a link through the community planning partnership website. Communications The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group is encouraged to share any best practice in partnership working locally with the wider Community Planning Partnership. Case studies and examples of partnership working making a difference can be sent to cppadmin@argyll- bute.gov.uk to be shared and promoted. For example this may be through the regular CPP e- Bulletin. The CPP e-Bulletin is available to members of the Area Community Planning Groups and sign up is via cppadmin@argyll-bute.gov.uk. Paper copies are available and it is downloadable from the webpage. Winding Up The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group is a sub group of the Argyll and Bute Community Planning Partnership. If the Argyll & Bute Community Partnership is dissolved, the Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group will cease to exist by default If a review of Argyll and Bute Community Planning Partnership delivery structure should recommend that Area Community Planning Groups should be dissolved to facilitate a new delivery structure, the decision whether or not to wind up the group will be made by the Argyll & Bute Community Planning Partnership following consultation with the Area Community Planning Groups and Argyll & Bute Council as lead partner for community planning within the area. Area Community Planning Group members may initiate a proposed wind up of the group by submitting a report outlining the reasons why it was felt the group was no longer required to the Management Committee in the first instance. The decision whether or not to wind up the group will be made by the Argyll & Bute Community Planning Partnership following consultation with Argyll & Bute Council as lead partner for community planning within the area Approved and adopted at the Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group meeting held on 3 March 2015 Amended March 2015 to reflect a change in the meeting cycle Amended March 2016 to clarify procedure if either the Chair or Vice Chair resigns during their term of office and amend number of days meeting papers are to be circulated prior to meeting date Amended February 2017 to clarify procedure if outgoing office bearer wishes to stand for re- election. Page 20
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Terms of Reference Version 1.7 February 23 Page 7 Amended February 2019 to clarify terms in respect of the Local Outcome Improvement Plan / Area Community Planning Action Plan. Amended February 2020 to clarify Communications, specifically the sharing of best practice and other minor changes to ensure ongoing currency and appropriateness for the work of the Area CPG. Amended February 2021 to clarify language and terminology and to include reference to Fairer Scotland Duty. Amended February 2022 to clarify language and terminology. Amended February 2023 to clarify language and terminology. Page 21
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Appendix 2 Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Groups Membership (incorporating changes in local communities since February 2022). Partner Organisation Contact Name Argyll and Bute Council Councillor Liz McCabe, Councillor Yvonne McNeilly & Councillor Gordon Blair Community Councils Ardentinny, Bute, Cairndow, Colintraive & Glendaruel, Dunoon, Hunter’s Quay, Kilfinan ,Kilmun, Lochgoil, Sandbank, South Cowal, Strachur Police Scotland Chief Inspector Sam Glasgow, Inspector Andrew Barron, PS Eddie McGunnigal, PC Laura Evans Scottish Fire and Rescue Watch Commander Iain Cameron Health and Social Care Partnership Phil Cummins Highlands and Islands Enterprise Jennifer Nicoll, David Smart NHS Highland Alison McGrory Highlands and Islands Enterprise Jennifer Nicoll Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park Susan Brooks TSI Katrina Sawyer ACHA Michelle Mundie Fyne Homes Janet McAlister Health and Wellbeing Network - Network Bute Dee Hancock Health and Wellbeing Network - Network Cowal Susan McFadyen Cowal Transport Forum Cllr D Hampsey PA23 BIDs Colin Moulson Scottish Health Council Alison McCrossan Argyll and Bute Social Enterprise Network Ailsa Clark Argyll and the Islands Strategic Tourism Partnership Carron Tobin Dunoon Area Alliance Ann Campbell, Tom Warren Bute Islands Alliance Reeni Kennedy-Boyle/ Jim Osborne Isle of Bute BIDS John Weir Colintraive & Glendaruel Development Trust Cathleen Russell Sue Wallis Volunteer Cowal (South West) Skills Development Scotland Susan MacRae Department of Work and Pensions Lynn Campbell Carr Gomm Becs Barker & Sarah Chapman Scenic Sandbank Ltd Sue Mckillop & Wendy MacNaughton Page 23
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Sandbank Community Development Trust Jean Maskell Page 24
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Argyll and Bute Community Planning Partnership Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group 7 February 2023 Appointment of Vice-Chair of the Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group Summary The following report provides information relating to the appointment of a Vice-Chair for the Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group. It outlines the expected time commitment and also gives information on the role. The Area Community Planning Group is asked to consider making an appointment to the position of Vice-Chair. 1. Purpose 1.1 This report asks the Area Community Planning Group to consider the appointment of a Vice-Chair. 2. Recommendations 2.1 The Area Community Planning Group is asked to consider the appointment of a Vice-Chair. 3. Background 3.1 The position of Vice-Chair has been vacant since the resignation of the previous Vice-Chair. 4. Detail 4.1 According to the Terms of Reference the Vice-Chair, if elected, would serve for a term of 2 years with an option to be re-elected at the end of this time. However, no one person can serve for more than 2 consecutive terms. 4.2 In order to be considered as a candidate for the position of Vice-Chair the person must be a member of the Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group. 4.3 Some further information on the commitment required for the role:- Attend meetings of the Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group; Attend meetings of the Community Planning Partnership Management Committee or the Full Partnership, if the Chair is unable to attend; Page 25 Agenda Item 4b
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Time commitment of at least 4 CPG meetings per year in February, May, August and November and 4 pre-agenda meetings per year in January, April, August and October; To participate in any Short-Term Working Groups as required; and To engage with officers of the Council in terms of setting the Agenda for the Community Planning Group. 5. Conclusions 5.1 The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group is asked to consider the appointment of a Vice-Chair. 6. SOA Outcomes 6.1 This report does not link to any specific Outcome as it relates to the administrative arrangements. For further information please contact: Stuart McLean, Committee Manager (01436) 658717 Page 26
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Argyll and Bute Community Planning Partnership Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group 7 February 2023 Community Planning Partnership Management Committee Update This briefing relates to the meeting of the Community Planning Partnership (CPP) Management Committee which was held on 7th December 2022. The briefing is for noting and relevant discussion. Summary HIGHLIGHTS Matters Arising from Area Community Planning Groups An update was provided on the discussions which had taken place at all 4 Area Community Planning Groups during the November 2022 cycle of meetings. The meetings had been well attended with a variety of interesting presentations given. Of particular interest was the appointment Ryan McIntyre, MSYP to the position of Vice Chair of the OLI Community Planning Group; the update from Stan Phillips regarding actions to take forward to address the climate emergency and the report by The Centre for Economics and Business Research that had been commissioned to better understand the needs of ferry users, island communities, and the economic and social value of Hebridean and Clyde ferry services. The Management Committee noted the current situation regarding the status of some Community Councils that have changed following the elections on 20 October 2022 and that Committee Services had been representing the Returning Officer at associated inaugural meetings. It was noted that new Community Councils would be invited to attend their associated Area Community Planning Group. The CPP Management Committee met on the 7th December 2022 with the meeting being held virtually. This update provides an overview of the discussion which took place. Reports which were discussed at the meeting can be found here Browse meetings - Argyll and Bute Community Planning Partnership - Management Committee - Argyll and Bute Council (argyll-bute.gov.uk) Page 27 Agenda Item 5
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CROSS CUTTING THEMES Climate Change Stan Philips provided a brief update report on the work of the Climate Change Working Group (CCWG). Stan advised that work is currently ongoing to secure funding for a Climate Change Project Manager to take forward the development of a climate change action plan, with £90k of the required £120k secured. Financial Inclusion and Child Poverty Mandy Sheridan advised that the 3rd Child Poverty Action Plan review would be published shortly. She noted the production of a one page graphic child friendly version of the plan would be used for engagement, which would link to resources, further help and information. The Argyll and Bute Data Cost of Living Crisis Group is looking at mapping data factors to a geographic map, cross referenced between 2 date periods, to pinpoint those most in need. Interest has also been submitted in the area becoming part of a pilot project by the Improvement Service to cross reference SEEMIS data with Council Tax Reduction claimants in Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation zones. A report produced for the Coalition for Racial Equality and Rights in October, analysed 10 of last year’s Local Authority action plans (including Argyll and Bute’s). The report made 5 key findings - most lacked any focus on race despite links between ethnicity and poverty and information on current action to address Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) child poverty, existing plans focus primarily on gypsy/travellers, Local Authorities acknowledge poverty for BAME families yet this did not lead to actions and issues with lack of data available at a national level are exacerbated at local level. Community Wealth Building (CWB) Takki Sulaiman on behalf of the Argyll and Bute TSI advised that the Board have agreed substantial funds for research to cover 3 main strands - drawing together existing strategies, identifying best practice suitable to Argyll and Bute’s geography and virtual food hubs . It was agreed that an advisory panel would be established with a full proposal and draft statement for anchor institutions (including what this means) to be considered at the next meeting. There was some discussion around the merit of this work, specifically that it helps to establish the wellbeing context of the area (the diverse and different needs, not a one size fits all). The importance of funding was also highlighted. Building Back Better Page 28
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Kirsty Moyes advised that she would be leading on work regarding the impact of the pandemic and that an engagement exercise would soon begin that would ask participants to discuss themes and make informed choices in their top 3 priorities. Work is also ongoing looking at training needs in communities and reviewing the micro grants scheme that enabled the council to distribute funding to village halls impacted at the height of the pandemic. Review of ABOIP (including Results of Consultation by MSYPs) Rona Gold updated the Management Committee on the approach being taken to review the Argyll and Bute Outcome Improvement Plan (ABOIP). Research by the team has identified key priorities within Argyll and Bute (including digital, transport, housing, climate etc.), the consultation survey will ask responders to rank their top 3 priorities from these. The survey will be open until the end of January 2023 and links to the survey and a QR code has been sent to partners. A focus groups will be established during the early part of spring to explore the outcomes of the engagement which will form the priorities over the next 10 years in Argyll and Bute. Members of the Scottish Youth Parliament (MSYPs) engaged with youth to determine what is important to young people. With around 900 responses received half of young people felt that their area was run down and felt they had no opportunity to have their voices heard. Climate concern and lack of meaningful or appropriate mental health support are also key issues for young people. Digital Communities Iain MacInnes advised the R100 project has started successfully making live connections across Argyll and Bute, and this will ramp up significantly over the next few years although there are significant challenges and expense in rolling out a full fibre programme. Iain is in contact with Openreach to engage with roads and planning services to streamline the process and find innovative solutions to mitigate any potential delays or disruption. Work continues on the Scottish Government 4g programme - there are now 3 of 9 sites live across the area to target 4g “not-spots”. This is a £1b project by the Scottish Government, UK Government and the mobile industry (Cornerstone, O2 and EE). Iain met with the shared rural network team recently to find solutions to accelerate the programme to build 11 remote sites in Argyll and Bute, which is to be completed by 2024. Digital hubs have also secured £11k funding from the Island Infrastructure Fund to develop hubs across 4 islands. Community Justice Partnership Annual Report Mary Holt spoke to the recently submitted Community Justice Annual Report, adding that Community Justice applies to all involved in or affected by the justice system and the Community Justice Scotland Act 2016. The local model for community justice aims to deliver an extensive change programme centred on increasing prevention of offending/reoffending through improved leadership and collaboration; Page 29
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evidencing and delivering improved outcomes; learning, development and innovation; and workforce development across multi-agency statutory partners. A Community Justice Outcome Improvement Plan, due to be published in April 2023, will align with the Argyll and Bute Outcome Improvement Plan and is dependent on the Outcome Performance Framework from the Community Justice National Strategy and the geographic diversity in Argyll and Bute. Local Transport Strategy and Case for Change The Management Committee noted that the Highlands and Islands Transport Partnership (HITRANS) are keen to attend a meeting in the New Year to discuss their regional transport strategy (the timeline, what they are doing and what it involves are detailed in the paper). For further information, please contact: Stuart McLean, Committee Manager, Argyll and Bute Council (01436) 657605 Stuart.mclean@argyll-bute.gov.uk Page 30
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Police Scotland Not At Home Protocol Argyll and West Dunbartonshire Police Division has been working with key partners in the local authority to develop the Not At Home Protocol which launches locally on the 9th January 2023. Police Scotland and Partners recognise the importance of their roles as ‘Corporate Parents’ and are committed to ensuring the wellbeing and support of care experienced young people. We also recognise that care experienced young people should be listened to and supported to prevent them being unnecessarily criminalised and from being exposed to risk and harm. Some children may be ‘not at home’ for a short period of time before returning. Sometimes children stay out longer than agreed, either on purpose or accidentally, and may be testing boundaries. This kind of boundary testing is well within the range of normal teenage behaviour and is not necessarily considered a risk. Police Scotland receive a number of calls relating to missing persons, often relating to care experienced young people who have not returned home, however their whereabouts are known by their care provider and they are believed to be safe and well. The Not At Home Protocol has the following aims: To meet the needs of our care experienced children and young persons To ensure a proportionate and risk assessed response to missing episodes To reduce the likelihood of escalation of behaviour with unnecessary police contact Where there are good grounds to believe that a child’s absence is careless or deliberate, and there is no apparent risk to the child and/or public it is permissible to have a single agency response and there is no need for the police to be contacted. If that risk becomes intolerable to the carer, consideration should be given to reporting the child missing to Police Scotland, generating a multi- agency response. Local Authorities, care providers and Police all play a vital role in the prevention, response, support and protection of children when they are missing. It is recognised that looked after children who go missing from care homes are particularly vulnerable as they can be targeted and may lack direct support or supervision from close family members. Distress Brief Intervention Distress Brief Intervention (DBI) is an innovative way of supporting people in distress. The DBI approach emerged from the Scottish Government’s work on Suicide Prevention and Mental Health strategies. The aim of the DBI programme is to provide a framework for improved inter[1]agency working, collaboration and co-operation across a wide range of care settings, interventions and community supports, working towards the shared goal of providing a compassionate and effective response to people in distress. This makes it more likely that individuals in distress will engage with Page 31 Agenda Item 6a
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and stay connected to services or support that may benefit them over time. Most importantly, DBI provides the opportunity to do the right thing and help people get access to early and effective support at a time when they need it most. Early and effective interventions by trained professionals go such a long way to improving a person’s quality of life and those of their families, friends and the wider community. DBI affords police officers a further tactical option (not previously available) to consider when dealing with people presenting in distress. It will not replace / duplicate any current arrangements for anyone who requires further medical treatment and will complement existing local arrangements such as contact with the Emergency Crisis Mental Health Team. Within Argyll and Bute, referrals for Distress Brief Intervention can be sent to Support In Mind Scotland who provide follow up with the person in distress within 24 hours of the referral. Support in Mind Scotland are then able to offer up to 14 days of time limited support to the individual and can link in with the GP for localised/further support. There are now over 50 police officers trained to make DBI referrals including officers on our islands including Mull, Tiree, Islay and Rothesay ensuring this support is available regardless of where in Argyll and Bute you live. Rural Watch Scotland Scotland is renowned for its great natural beauty and the rural communities of Scotland are safe places in which to live, work and visit. However, the nature of the environment and way of life means there are some crime prevention tips particularly relevant to rural life. Police Scotland would like to encourage people within Argyll and Bute to get involved with Rural Watch Scotland and to sign up and receive FREE alerts. 'Rural Watch Scotland' is an extension of the Neighbourhood Watch Scotland movement and a product of the Scottish Partnership Against Rural Crime (SPARC) aimed specifically at the rural community of Scotland and aims to bring all the benefits of Neighbourhood Watch to your community irrespective of its location, size or demographics. The objectives of Rural Watch Scotland mirror that of Neighbourhood Watch, namely to: Page 32
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Reduce crime and the fear of crime by providing the right information, to the right people, at the right time Encourage people to think about safety and security for themselves, their neighbours and their community Improve community cohesion and well-being by supporting communities to develop 'their watch, their way' Work in partnership with national and local service providers to develop more resilient communities that are better prepared against threats, intentional or unintentional, such as crime or extreme weather By joining Rural Watch Scotland you can receive alerts and advice by phone, text or email. By keeping you informed about crime and other threats in your area, we help prevent crime, keep your community and its residents safe, and your response to these alerts can help us catch criminals or be better prepared to deal with other threats to your community. To join Rural Watch Scotland simply click the green JOIN button at the top of the internet page found here https://www.ruralwatchscotland.co.uk/#SignUp Page 33
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Bute, Cowal and Dunoon CPG Briefing Report Q3 2022/23 Performance & Activity Report From: 1st October 2022 To: 31st December 2022 Page 35 Agenda Item 6b
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Introduction Welcome to the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Community Board Performance Report. This performance report is designed to provide citizens, stakeholders and partners with information relating to Community Board based activity undertaken by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service. Whilst using historic statistical benchmarking data, consideration must be taken of the somewhat random nature of fire related incidents and events, and how this can pose difficulties in interpreting emerging patterns and trends. This is of specific relevance where Community Board level data is analysed due to the relatively small number of actual incidents/events that occur in Community Board areas. However, regardless of statistical anomalies, emerging patterns and trends in fire related incidents and events can assist the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and Community Planning Partners plan and implement preventative intervention initiatives to target reducing fire related incidents and events. Local Firefighter Training Plan Below is a list of subjects the operational crews have been focusing on within this period. Each subject has been covered both practically and theoretically and recorded in the Fire Service Training recording system. Training Subjects October/November/December CFBT Tac Vent Casualty Care RTC and Extrication HAZMAT SWAH Page 36
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Accidental Dwelling Fires (ADF) Ward 3 Year Average 2021/22 2022/23 Isle of Bute 1 1 1 Cowal 1 1 0 Dunoon 1.7 1 1 Community Board Total 3.7 3 2 ADF Casualties Ward 3 Year Average 2021/22 2022/23 Isle of Bute 0.3 0 0 Cowal 0 0 0 Dunoon 0 0 0 Community Board Total 0.3 0 0 Deliberate Secondary Fire Setting Ward 3 Year Average 2021/22 2022/23 Isle of Bute 1 0 0 Cowal 1 1 0 Dunoon 1 1 0 Community Board Total 3 2 0 Page 37
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Fires in Non-Domestic Property Ward 3 Year Average 2021/22 2022/23 Isle of Bute 1 0 1 Cowal 0.7 2 0 Dunoon 0.3 0 1 Community Board Total 2 2 2 Casualties from Non-Fire Emergencies Ward 3 Year Average 2021/22 2022/23 Isle of Bute 0 0 0 Cowal 1.3 0 2 Dunoon 2.7 5 2 Community Board Total 4 5 4 Unwanted Fire Alarm Signals Ward 3 Year Average 2021/22 2022/23 Isle of Bute 28.3 32 43 Cowal 16 21 18 Dunoon 26 5 8 Community Board Total 70.3 58 69 Page 38
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Incidents/Activities of Note Unwanted Fire Alarm Signals (UFAS) We are still continually working with partners and targeting our top offenders which are Education including Infant/Primary/Secondary Schools, and Residential/Care Homes. A new UFAS Policy has been devised by a dedicated project team within SFRS with an aim at reducing UFAS Incidents further. Completion of this has been advised to be April 2023. Road & Water Safety campaigns We have been working alongside Police Scotland, RNLI and various other Partners across all sectors engaging with the Local Community at various identified hotspots providing information, advice and literature relevant to Road & Water Safety (including drug and alcohol misuse and ASB), as well as providing Throwline and CPR Training to local businesses and members of the public. Community Engagement Activities • Post Domestic Incident Response (PDIR) following every domestic incident. • Fire, Water & Road Safety Talks –Presentations into schools and local community groups with practical demonstrations and interactive scenario floorboards. • Continue to deliver Fire Safety advice via HFSVs and provision of smoke detection where none is fitted. • Represented on the MARAC for those affected by domestic Violence. • Continue to support “Make the Call” Campaign and “On Call” recruitment drive for retained and volunteer stations. • Supporting PAWS group and engaging with the public, #RESPECTTHEWATER campaign. •Online training for partners with risk awareness within the training via MS Teams. • Engaging with communities for Bonfire/Autumn TAP safety advice; Bonfire/Fireworks Safety, firework legislation, Anti-Social Behaviour and deliberate fire setting, refuse fires, outdoor fires, fly-tipping, wildfires. Bonfire & Fireworks Presentations delivered to all schools within the area using 3 pronged approach depending on the schools capacity to accommodate in person, over MS teams, or to present themselves with our support. SFRS Electric Vehicles within the Area Beehives within the area producing Honey. Victim support referral pathway set up Home Fire Safety As part of our commitment to building a safer Scotland we offer everyone in Scotland a free home fire safety visit. We'll help you sort out a fire escape plan and provide information about smoke, heat and carbon monoxide alarms. For a Free Home Fire Safety Visit, please: call 0800 0731 999 text "FIRE" to 80800 from your mobile phone. Twitter link: https://twitter.com/abewdhq Page 39
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1 Argyll & Bute Community Planning Partnership Area Meetings Date: January 2022 Partner update – Public Health The paper provides an update on ongoing wellbeing and prevention activity overseen and delivered by the HSCP Public Health Team in Argyll and Bute. Living Well self-management grant funding 2022/2023 In November 2022 Argyll & Bute HSCP launched year 4 of the Living Well (Self- Management) community capacity building fund, which was open to Third Sector organisations who deliver services/support to adults over the age of 18 living in Argyll and Bute. Applications were invited from third sector organisations that can support the HSCP to deliver on the Living Well Strategy. In 2022/2023, the fund was keen to attract projects that had a particular focus on Supporting volunteer wellbeing. Reducing isolation and improving community networks. Supporting healthy weight or access/cost around food via sustainable food programmes in our communities. The Living Well steering group is delighted to announce that the following groups will receive grant funding from this programme: Argyll and Bute Citizens Advice Bureau Hope Kitchen Argyll Wellbeing Hub Jean's Bothy Dochas Carers Centre eXp Dunoon Kintyre Link Club Community Link Working The Argyll and Bute Community Link Working service is commissioned by Argyll and Bute HSCP and delivered by 3rd sector organisation We Are With You. Community Link Workers can be accessed through referral from 14 GP practices across Argyll and Bute. The service addresses inequalities by being accessible to those living in the areas of Argyll and Bute that experience the most socioeconomic deprivation. Page 41 Agenda Item 6c
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2 Community Link Workers recognise that social issues such as debt, relationships, employment and loneliness affect people’s health and wellbeing, and will connect people to sources of support or resources within their community. The service has been developed in line with the modernisation and expansion of services delivered in GP practices, resulting in multidisciplinary teams working together to support people holistically and improve outcomes for patients. The Community Link Working service continues to receive positive feedback and an increasing number of referrals. Over the first 6 months of the service, 240 referrals were received, with 85% of people who completed wellbeing scale at Entry and Exit reported increased well-being scores. The CLWs use a variety of approaches to support people to make changes to their health and wellbeing. This may include signposting, sharing information, referral, or direct support with self-management techniques such as relaxation strategies. 98% of those who completed a satisfaction survey strongly agreed/agreed that they had received the right support from the link worker. “My link worker has been an absolute huge support to me when I needed. I don’t know how I would have coped without her.” “I definitely feel that having the link worker support me and help me find the correct resources has made a huge difference and achieved so much. I am very grateful for the time, effort and compassion that was shown to me and I feel like a lot of people would really benefit from the same experience I had.” Further information can be found at: https://www.wearewithyou.org.uk/what-we- do/community-links/ or via email at argyllandbutecommunitylinks@wearewithyou.org.uk Health Improvement website The Argyll and Bute Health Improvement team has launched a new website with information about the Living Well strategy and the wider health improvement work. The website can be accessed via: https://www.ablivingwell.org/. The website contains information about the work of the Living Well Networks. The Living Well Networks (LWNs) are for people with an interest in building healthy communities. They provide an opportunity for people to come together to find out what issues matter to local communities; to plan activities and events together; and to network with individuals, services and organisations with an interest in improving health. The networks have allocated co-ordination time funded by the Argyll and Bute HSCP. The website also has information about health improvement work relating to Type 2 Diabetes, self-management, emotional/mental wellbeing, suicide prevention, and smoking cessation. Resources such as such as Public Health Annual Reports and electronic versions of leaflets can be found here: https://www.ablivingwell.org/resources-publications. This includes the updated Small Changes Big Differences leaflet, which contains useful self-management information for a range of health behaviours, including where to Page 42
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3 find further support https://www.ablivingwell.org/s/small-changes-big-difference- booklet_updated-Aug-22.pdf Screening The Argyll and Bute Health Improvement Team have been raising awareness about the importance of health screening, particularly Bowel and Cervical. Since November 2022, outreach work with many community and third sector organisations has been ongoing, to raise awareness and have access to accurate information. The team plan to deliver training on how to raise the issue of health screening for community based organisations and offer further support. In addition to the community work, The Smoke Free Advisers will also start to introduce health screening, where appropriate, when offering their smoking cessation service. Encouraging the conversation of health screening can reduce misconceptions, provide accurate information and reduce fears and anxieties. Bowel screening is done to help find cancer early, when it can be cured. In Scotland, people aged 50 to 74 will be invited for bowel screening every 2 years. If you’re 75 or over, you can still take a bowel screening test every 2 years. However, you’ll need to request a new test kit each time as the Scottish Bowel Screening Centre won't routinely send you one, ordering a new kit can be done on https://www.nhsinform.scot/healthy-living/screening/bowel/request-a-bowel- screening-test-kit/ Cervical screening is routinely offered to anyone with a cervix in Scotland between the ages of 25 and 64 is usually every 5 years. Testing for HPV is an effective way of identifying those at risk of developing cervical cancer. More information can be found on https://www.nhsinform.scot/healthy-living/screening/cervical/cervical-screening- smear-test . In addition to this if anything seems unusual for you, or you have any signs or symptoms that you are concerned about, the advice is to contact your GP to arrange an appointment. Further information on all the NHS Screening Programmes can be found at NHS Inform Screening | NHS inform Screening information for the transgender / non binary community can be found at Transgender screening in Scotland | NHS inform Page 43
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4 No Smoking Day 2023 REPORT AUTHOR AND CONTACT Author Names: Sam Campbell, (Interim Health Improvement Principal); Laura Stephenson and Jenny Dryden (Health Improvement Leads) Email nhsh.abhealthimprovement@nhs.scot Page 44
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Principal and Chief Executive: Martin Jones www.argyll.uhi.ac.uk UHI Argyll is a trading name of Argyll College Ltd a charity registered in Scotland No SC026685 Registered address: West Bay, Dunoon, PA23 7HP UHI Argyll – Rothesay and Dunoon: Update for Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group 25.01.2023 1. In response to rising living costs, all UHI Argyll centres have put additional support in place for our students, including the provision of free breakfasts/snacks in all centres. 2. We are offering a wide range of free access courses starting this January. Available in both Rothesay and Dunoon centres are the following: Access to Further Education, SCQF level 4, Full-time Start date Wednesday 25th January 2023. Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays for 17 weeks. Access to Care, SCQF level 5, Full-time Start date Wednesday 25th January 2023. Wednesday Mornings, Thursdays & Fridays for 18 weeks Modern Social Media Skills, SCQF level 4, Part-time The start date Thursday 26th January 2023. Thursdays 10.30am – 3pm for 12 weeks Technology Enabled Care PDA, SCQF level 7, Part-time Start date January. 4 hours per week for 17 weeks Free part-time/single unit courses: ESOL English language levels 4 and 5 Starts January. Part-time, evening Social Media Literacy From January 24th to 30th May 2023. Online classes: Tuesdays 4.15 - 6.15pm Computer Games Design From January 26th to June 1st, 2023. Online classes: Thursdays 11.15am -1.15pm Computer Games Development From January 26th to June 1st, 2023. Online classes: Thursdays 9 - 11am Garden Design From Jan 24th to 28th March 2023. Online scheduled classes: Tuesdays 6-9pm Horticulture Choose from 7 single-unit options running from Jan to March or March to May at Mount Stuart Estate. Free upskilling/reskilling (postgraduate and undergraduate). Limited spaces. Applications now closed: Sustainability/Net Zero Digital skills Business, leadership and management skills Health and wellbeing Creative Industries 3. Throughout December, UHI Argyll ran a weekly networked Access to College course for school Christmas leavers. Page 45 Agenda Item 6d
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Principal and Chief Executive: Martin Jones www.argyll.uhi.ac.uk UHI Argyll is a trading name of Argyll College Ltd a charity registered in Scotland No SC026685 Registered address: West Bay, Dunoon, PA23 7HP 4. Commencing in January and running for 12 weeks, UHI Argyll are offering intensive tuition in National 5 English and Maths for a fee of £60 for full 12 weeks. This is aimed at school children as a more affordable alternative to private tuition. 5. Open days were held in all UHI Argyll centres on 22nd November and 17th Jan, offering interactive taster sessions online or in the centres. There is a further open day provisionally scheduled for March. 6. Rothesay Centre: The Sawa partnership project for New Scots reached completion in October 2022. Four students successfully completed a vocational qualification in horticulture with preparation for employment skills. 7. Dunoon Centre: The graduation ceremony for 2022 graduates was held in Queen’s Hall in Dunoon on Friday 23rd September 2022. Graduates from 2021 and 2020 were also invited to attend (their ceremonies had been postponed due to Coronavirus restrictions at the time). Sheena Finlay Assistant Centre Manager (Rothesay) sheena.finlay@uhi.ac.uk Rhona Altin Assistant Centre Manager (Dunoon) rhona.altin@uhi.ac.uk Page 46
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Community Learning Services LiveArgyll Update SAWA Project Bute. Projects and activities continue at Mount Stuart Library through the Book Repair Class and ongoing one to one mentoring and gardening placements. In addition to online ESOL classes currently running there is a face to face English Language Class held weekly at the Greentree café and delivered by one of the Volunteer mentors. The Bicycle Repair Project is also ongoing. On Thursday 12 January a book launch took place at LiveArgyll Library on Bute to acknowledge Ukrainian and Arabic New book sections. In attendance with Janice (Librarian) where members of the women’s group. Consultations took place with members of the community who speak Arabic and Ukrainian to find out what books they wanted to see in the Library. After the Festive break Community Learning Services activities have resumed and in addition to existing activities ongoing there are new initiatives underway and up and coming. Adult Learning Bute – David Hagerty has joined the Community Development and Planning team as a Community Development Officer and therefore Adult Learning activities and classes will resume once his position has been filled. Adult Learning Cowal – Classes/activities are set to continue in Dunoon and prior to the Christmas break 18 Adult Learners attended a variety of activities in relation to Health and Well Being and Social Inclusion. Youth Work Bute: Cooking on a Budget: Young people identified the need after sessions during October GIVE programme. Young people are aware of cost of living crisis and this project aims to give them the skills to make healthy and nutritious food on a low budget. They learn about basic H&S, food prep, budgeting and life skills which include preparing food, cooking food & costing out how much each meal cost to make per portion. It will run over 7 weeks and involves other Partners with Jane Liddell a volunteer from Bute Shinty club & members of Bute Oasis foodbank. 8 young people have already taken part in the first session that ran through November/December 2022. Due to its success another session will run again in February 2023. Dunoon/Cowal - Dunoon has a girls group running on Wednesday evenings with around 9 in attendance and is run by a Young Leader it continues to cover topics such as Puberty/relationships/consent, Self Esteem and Drugs and Alcohol with input from Police Scotland and Project rape Crisis. MSYPs are running consultations events across Argyll with young people around their right to vote and how to vote. During this event they will also be supporting the Community Planning partnership in promoting and encouraging more Young People to complete the recent Improving Lives in Argyll Survey if they haven’t already done so. New Appointment of LiveArgyll Community Learning Services Youth Team Leader: Wendy Reid has been appointed as the Youth Services Team Leader and will start in her new role in February 2023. Wendy will start to introduce herself to Partners, Organisations when she starts and we would like to welcome her on-board. Page 47 Agenda Item 6e
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DWP Partner Update January 2023 Count of customers – Universal Credit and Legacy benefits (Stats Xplore 19/01/23) Universal Credit – Number of People on UC by Age Group at December 2022 (all conditionality groups) Jobcentre Plus 18 – 24 25 – 39 40 – 49 50 – 59 60+ TOTAL Campbeltown 99 353 196 156 105 909 Dunoon 150 464 261 230 116 1221 Helensburgh 151 486 247 201 109 1194 Oban 197 732 398 313 187 1827 Rothesay 68 253 178 154 86 739 TOTAL 665 2288 1280 1054 603 5890 Universal Credit – Number of People on UC by Conditionality Group at December 2022 Jobcentre Plus C’town Dunoon H’burgh Oban Rothesay TOTAL Searching for work 172 304 202 377 168 1223 Working – with requirements 149 174 176 260 83 842 Working – no requirements 207 206 268 434 130 1245 No work related Requirements 341 463 485 608 288 2185 Planning for work 10 13 12 18 15 68 Preparing for work 31 74 65 117 61 384 TOTAL 910 1234 1208 1814 745 5911 Page 49 Agenda Item 6f
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Jobseekers Allowance at May 2022 – Argyll & Bute Male 103 Female 44 Total 147 Employment & Support Allowance at May 2022 – Argyll & Bute Phase of claim Assessment phase 88 Work Related Activity Group 293 Support Group 2163 Total 2544 Income Support as at May 2022 – Argyll & Bute Statistical Group Lone Parent 43 Carer 104 Total 147 Update DWP is providing targeted support for customers over 50 years of age, with each District now having a 50+ Champion who is working with local sties. This will enable those aged 50 and over, through early and targeted employment, skills and employer-led support to stay in, progress or return to work and to build their future financial resilience and wellbeing. DWP continue to seek provision for its customers to support them in their employability journey. DWP has purchased Customer Service provision for 6 customers in the Campbeltown area and the customers who participated in this provision have gained a range of certification which will enhance their prospects of gaining employment in retail and hospitality sectors. The course included certified learning in Customer Service skills, Health & Safety at Work, Moving & Handling (Objects), Emergency First Aid and REHIS as well as mock interviews. Page 50
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DWP purchased provision for 50 customers in West Scotland District which can be accessed by customers across Argyll & Bute and following the success of this support, further provision has been purchased. The aim of this provision is to progress customers who are reporting a health customer on their customer journey. The provision will support them to recognise and overcome barriers and to adjust their mindset, acknowledge their health conditions and gain an understanding of how to manage their movement towards work. This provision will run from 6/2/22 to 22/4/23. Autumn Statement The Chancellor delivered his Autumn Statement in November which included a targated package of support for the most vulnerable. The full Autumn Statement is available to read on GOV.UK along with supporting documents including a Cost of Living factsheet The package included: Benefit Uprating – The Government is protecting the most vulnerable in society by increasing benefits in line with inflation by 10.1%. Working age families will see their benefit payments rise from April 2023. The Government is also providing support this winter for people who need help now, including money off energy bills and Cost of Living Payments. Pensions Uprating – Pensioners in Great Britain will benefit from a 10.1% increase to their State Pension in April 2023 under the triple lock. This is worth over £870 next year on average. A full basic State Pension will increase from £141.85 to £156.20 per week, and the new State Pension will increase from £151.85 to £203.85. The Government will also protect 1.4 million of the poorest pensioner households from rising prices by increasing Pension Credit by 10.1% in April 2023. New Cost of Living Payments – UK households on means-tested benefits will receive an additional Cost of Living Payment of £900 in 2023-24. These will be made in more than one instalment. People across the UK on non-mean tested benefits will receive a further £150 Disability Cost of Living Payment in 2023-24 to help with the additional costs they face. This is in addition to the Cost of Living Payment for households on means-tested benefits and pensioner households, if eligible. Pensioner households across the UK will receive an additional £300 Pensioner Cost of Living Payment in 2023-24 to help with bills. This is in addition to means-tested and disability payments (if eligible) recognising that many pensioners are disproportionately impacted by higher energy costs and unable to increase their income through work. Exact payment windows will be announced closer to the time, but are spread across a longer period to ensure a consistent support offering throughout the year. They will be broadly as follows: Page 51
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£301 – First Cost of Living Payment – during Spring 2023 £150 – Disability Payment – during Summer 2023 £300 – Second Cost of Livig Payment – during Autumn2023 £300 – Pensioner Payment – during Winter 2023/24 £299 – Third Cost of Living Payment – during Spring 2024 Guidance on getting extra payment to help with the cost of living if you’re entitled to certain benefits or tax credits has been updated to include a link to information about Cost of Living Payments during 2023 and 2024. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/cost-of-living-payment Benefit Cap rise – In April 2023 the Government will also increase the benefit cap in line with inflation by 10.1% The benefit cap will rise from £23,000 to £25,323 for families in Greater London and from £20,000 to £22,020 for families nationally. Lower caps for single households without children will rise from £15,410 to £16,967 in Greater London and from £13,400 to £14,753 nationally. Employment & Support Allowance (ESA) – delay in managed move to Universal Credit - The Government has also had to make challenging decisions to deliver on fiscal sustainability while protecting support for those who need it most. As part of this, the Chancellor announced a delay in the moving of ESA claimants not in receipt of Child Tax Credit into UC until April 2028, this provides a welfare saving of £1 billion by 2027-28, as overall UC is more generous that the benefits it replaces. Completing the move to UC over a longer time frame moves these increased costs to a later date. Recoverable Hardship Payments From 19/12/22 claimants will be able to ask DWP to review a previous request to stop (waive) Recoverable Hardship Payment (RHP) repayments made between 1/1/14 and 11/1/21. Recoverable Hardship Payments provide money to claimants who have seen their benefits reduced by sanctions or a fraud penalty. Claimants have to apply for them with evidence of need, and each request is reviewed individually. Hardship payments must be repaid by the claimant. However, claimants can request for the recovery of these payments to be waived, and must provide further evidence to show that paying back the money is either unaffordable or would affect their or their family’s health or wellbeing. Page 52
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And exercise has already started to look at previous waiver requests that took place prior to 11/1/21. A guidance page on GOV.UK explains the process and asks claimants to share evidence if they feel their RHP should be waived. Applications can only be considered if a request was made to waive the RHP between 1/1/14 and 11/1/21 and was refused at the time. With the evidence, Debt Management will check the claimant’s circumstances to see if they would have qualified. Automatic Enrolment – employer workplace pension duties Automatic enrolment is a continuous responsibility for all employers, from ensuring they maintain pensions contributions to completing re-enrolment. The Pensions Regulator (TPR) provides information for employers to help them prevent errors. We ask for your support in driving awareness of employers’ ongoing automatic enrolment duties. Further details on signing up to receive updates from The Pensions Regulator can be found on the TPR website. Reversal of National Insurance increase The reversal of April 2022’s 1.25% rise in National Insurance took effect across the UK from 6/11/22. Most employees will start to receive this tax cut directly through payroll between November 2022 and February 2023. Added to July’s increase in National Insurance thresholds, almost 30 million people will be £500 better off on average this year. It takes effects in all part of the UK and means working people will keep more of the money they earn. Funding for health and social care services will be maintained at the same level as if the levy were in place. Made with Care campaign highlights opportunities for careers in care The “Made with Care” campaign has returned for a second year and highlights the wide range of opportunities available to build a career in care and help others to live happy, healthy, fulfilling lives. Running until March 2023, campaign advertising will appear to millions across video-on-demand platforms such as ITV Hub, Sky Go and All 4 as well as radio and digital audio channels such as Spotify and social media and digital channels like Facebook and Instagram to direct jobseekers to www.adultsocialcare.co.uk People will be able to find everything the need to research a career in adult social care and, crucially, search and apply for adult social care jobs near them, with support to perfect their CV and advice on interviews. Page 53
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Minimum Wage Increases The National Living Wage will rise to £10.42 from 1/4/23, an increase of 92p or 9.7%. The Low Pay Commission’s recommendations ensure the NLW continues on track to reach the Government’s target of two-thirds of median earnings by 2024. The recommendations were unanimously agreed by Commissioners and accepted fully by the Government. Large minimum wage increases help protect low-paid workers’ living standards - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) Employers who have signed up to the Disbability Confident scheme This document lists employers who have signed up to the Disability Confident scheme, and their status (committed, employer or leader). Employers that have signed up to the Disability Confident scheme - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) The Disability Confident scheme aims to help employers make the most of the opportunities provided by employing disabled people. It is voluntary and has been developed by employers and disabled people’s representatives. The Disability Confident scheme has 3 levels that have been designed to support employers on their Disability Confident journey. Employers must complete each level before moving on to the next, it is free to sign up and use the guidance How to sign up to the Disability Confident employer scheme - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) Winter Fuel Payment 11.6 million Winter Fuel and Cost of Living Payments have been made to pensioners across the UK so far this winter. Pensioners who haven’t received their payment by 13/1/23 should contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre online or by telephone Up to £600 winter help paid to over 11.5 million pensioners - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) This video about Winter Fuel Payments can also be shared https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AaPoW5_nzKg Page 54
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Argyll & Bute TSI Update Argyll & Bute Community Directory - Self Serve Function Following on from the launch of the Argyll & Bute Community Directory, we introduced the Self Service functionality. This option will allow organisations to claim their listings on the Directory and update and maintain the services themselves. To self serve, you will need to register and then claim your listing. Click the link to start the registration process https://abcd.scot/registration Page 57 Agenda Item 6g
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Cost of Living Crisis We have been busy compiling a list of useful resources and warm spaces across Argyll and Bute on our website. Click here to view the page. If you know of a warm space that is not listed on the page please email Laurenmartin@Argylltsi.org.uk with the details TSI Inveraray Hub Our hub is being used regularly by the Third Sector and is proving to be a very useful space for hybrid meetings. The hub is also being offered as a warm space for organisations in Argyll & Bute to use during the cost of living crisis. To enquire about the warm space, email laurenmartin@argylltsi.org.uk. For more information on the hub, visit argylltsi.org/hub where you can book for your organisation or leave a review if you have used the hub before. We really appreciate any feedback to help us make the hub the best hybrid meeting space for Third Sector Organisations in Argyll & Bute. Skills Network training We have partnered with The Skills Network to offer distance learning qualifications fully funded via the Scottish Funding Council without cost. Page 58
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Ideal for filling skill gaps or personal development, the online fully funded courses are delivered virtually around your schedule and come with nationally recognised qualifications upon completion. For more information click here All our Children Network meeting We will be holding the next All our Children Network meeting on Tuesday 14th February. This will be a hybrid meeting with the option to attend in person at the Inveraray Hub. On the agenda is the merger between All our Children and The TSI children and Young people network. To view the agenda and sign up click here. TSI Social Enterprise Network The Third Sector Interface are holding another Social Enterprise Network meeting on Wednesday 15th February 2023. The meeting will a hybrid meeting so you can attend in person or virtually online. For more details and to reserve a spot click this link Page 59
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Argyll & Bute Citizens Advice Bureau Community Planning Partnerships Update Jan 2023 Cost of living crisis Argyll & Bute CAB has experienced a significant ongoing rise in the number of clients seeking support with energy costs. As a result we have secured additional funding to support clients across the four administrative regions We are providing 1:1 and group information sessions on energy efficiency measures. To arrange a session please contact Libby Dobbie at the bureau 01546 605550 or email info@abcab.org.uk Additionally our advisers can support clients to negotiate with their suppliers, and have additional supports available to those households that are off-grid or who rely on alternative sources of heating. We are referral partners to a wide renage of emergency supports: Home Heating Advice support fund Fuel Bank Foundation And have access to other smaller discretionary pots of money. We are delighted to announce a new partnership in this vein with the An Suidhe Windfarm fund, managed by Foundation Scotland. Households in the An Suidhe area can access confidential, free and independent advice and support from the Bureau and also may be eligible for financial assistance. We would ask partners to refer clients they believe may benefit from these funds directly to the bureau using the referral form at the base of this update report. The AN Suidhe fund is strictly limited to households in these postcode areas: Avich: Furnace: Inveraray: Eredine/South Loch Aweside: PA35 1HH PA35 1HJ PA35 1HL PA35 1HN PA35 1HS PA32 8XN PA32 8XX PA32 8XS PA32 8XU PA32 8XZ PA32 8XY PA32 8WD PA32 8YA PA32 8 (but not Minard) PA33 1BJ PA33 1BW PA33 1BP PA33 1BS PA33 1BU. Our advisers continue to report increasing numbers of clients reporting complex or multifaceted issues and an increase in mental health issues as a result. We are looking to develop networks with existing mental health services and organisations to strengthen resources and supports to clients in these situations. Volunteer opportunities: The CAB is looking to begin our recruitment campaign for our spring cohort of volunteer trainee advisers. The training of an adviser within the CAB network can take around 6 months and we strive to develop confidence, research skills and strengthen confidence. The role is predominately aimed at those who have perhaps recently retired, reduced their hours within a paid role or who are looking at developing skills to return to the paid labour market. Advisers can be based anywhere in Argyll & Page 61 Agenda Item 6h
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Bute, however we are particularly looking for individuals from the region’s island communities, as well as those in an around the larger urban areas (Oban, Lochgilphead, Helensburgh, Campbeltown). We are delighted to have received funding from the HSCP Living Well Fund to support volunteer adviser wellbeing, we are holding wellbeing lunches once a month with our teams bot in person and virtually, and are looking arrange quarterly networking lunches with other 3rd sector organisations to share ideas on how to increase wellbeing and volunteer/adviser resilience. We recently held a very successful event with Lomond and Argyll Advocacy Services in the Comraich Centre in Lochgilphead prior to the Christmas break. If your organisation is interested in being part of these events please let me know by email jen.broadhurst@abcab.org.uk We would be happy to arrange an info session with our development worker to discuss the opportunity and course expectations. Partners are encouraged to invite clients/patients and service users to contact the bureau on 01546 605550 info@abcab.org.uk Community Consultation We are currently running our annual consultation exercise with partner organisations in order to review the work of the bureau and would welcome CPP attendee’s responses to this https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/ABCABCommunityPartnersSurvey/ Research project for 2023 Partners may recall our research project last year looked into the private rental sector across Argyll & Bute and as a result we have engaged positively with the council on areas of mutual interest as we represent client’s views on the private rental of homes in Argyll & Bute. This year we are looking to report on the experiences of carers in the current cost of living crisis. We would like to increase current engagement with local carers groups and explore research opportunities with carers in these services. We hope to be in contact with local groups and services over the next few weeks to arrange such. Page 62
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Scenic Sandbank Scenic Sandbank is a charitable community group created in April 2021 and run by volunteers, in the first instance, created to improve the areas around Sandbank for the benefit of residents and visitors to the village. With SCC we paid for the rejuvenation of Broxwood Picnic Area completed last year. We have also completed the Stage Two application to SLF for funding for us to buy the ground the old Sandbank primary was on from A&BC for a community garden for the village. Attached is a draft plan of what we envisage the garden to look like. It will open to all and have access for people in wheelchairs and limited mobility as well. The raised beds will also accommodate children and adults of all abilities. As you will see on the plan there will also be an outdoor learning space. When we started this project, we asked for support from the residents of Sandbank and got over 15% of the village supporting the community garden. So, we have 180 members of the project. 80 of these actively wish to work in developing the garden. Community Garden project. We submitted the Stage Two application to the Scottish Land Fund for £85.500 to purchase the ground from Argyll & Bute Council in early November 2022 and we hope for a positive outcome by early March 2023 We are continuing to talk to groups who we think may be interested in gardening with us and also supporting the project. We have support from local businesses as well as other community groups around the area. We have submitted a pre planning application for the project with positive feed back from the planning department. Scenic Sandbank Team. Page 63 Agenda Item 6i
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BUTE BID NEWSLETTER Visit Bute is now a paid member of the Argyll and the Island Tourism Cooperative (AITC) and their website Wild About Argyll (WAA). The advantages of this annual membership had Bute being put front and centre in national and international promotional activities over social and print media, including a number 2 'Places to Visit' in Scotland in a recent 'Times' advertorial paid for by VisitScotland! The Bute BID have also updated its ‘microsite’ within the Wild About Argyll (WAA) website. AITC is both funded and supported by VisitScotland, Argyll and Bute Council, Highlands and Islands Enterprise and is the most active and successful tourist vehicle for this area. Membership with AITC exposes Bute to over 34,000+ social media interactions and the (WAA) website attracts over 253k unique visitors annually, allowing Bute to reach audiences outside the scope of our regular marketing activities. After attending a number of industry events, Bute BID now have close working relations with several cruise ship agents, including Majestic Cruise Liners. In our first year we gave a warm musical ‘Bute’ welcome to no less than three busy cruise ships with footfall ranging from 400 to 800 people coming ashore. BID plans are now underway to increase our business relationships with cruise ships and small to medium sized coach operators. In September 2022, 30 tour operators/agents from around the world were taken on a fun filled and preplanned fact-finding trip around the island to entice those companies in future destination visits to Bute. The BID will now have a calendar of cruise ships that will berth for the following year. This prior knowledge will give businesses and entertainment groups and dancers the opportunity to welcome this new footfall around the whole island! 77 Victoria Street, Rothesay, Bute PA20 0AP Through the BID, Bute’s businesses are now in full control of the Visit Bute website and all its social media outlets. All the island’s promotional activities, events and business offerings are equally represented for BID Levy payers within the VB website. Every business paying the Levy is entitled to be part of Visit Bute promotions should they wish to. We have updated the website to ensure a much more inclusive directory with well received daily postings on Facebook and Instagram. Non-levy paying businesses who wish to join or retain Visit Bute membership and its many benefits can pay an annual fee of £85. Email us at info@butebid.com for an application form Branding with VISIT BUTE ARGYLL AND THE ISLES TOURISM COOPERATIVE (AITC) AND VISIT BUTE Cruising news visitbute.com / butebid.com The BID board has monthly media zoom meetings with Visit Scotland’s Regional Director, David Adams-McGilp, as well as regular meetings with our local VisitScotland office at The Discovery Centre. Firming up these relationships ensures the Bute BID is informed and involved in ongoing campaigns to increase awareness and understand the footfall to the island. November 2022 | info@butebid.com | 01700 50 3971 better marketing and promotion of Bute with a stronger place in the tourism sector, holding local events and visible branding. Bute business community understood that environment and image of the island attracts independent investment, further tourist footfall and can increase visitor and live-in population. that working with the Bute BID will deliver increased business support, business facilitation and business advocacy that would be unavailable individually. The Bute BID is a collective business voice for all island matters. At the outset of establishing the Bute Business Improvement District (BID) the businesses identified 3 key areas to address and prioritise. 77% 78% 65%wanted of the expects Page 65 Agenda Item 6j
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The most popular of Scottish tourist destinations can only compete effectively by giving priority to their customer facing image. Creating an island destination that looks enticing to visit, and is varied enough to revisit, is what Bute needs to focus upon. All Bute business owners are extremely aware that a clean, tidy and well presented island benefits everyone - islanders and visitors alike. A huge amount of behind the scenes work has been collated by the BID to understand and document our street and island infrastructure for projects we will continue to announce in the future. This year Bute businesses took on and paid for the responsibility of tackling the islands streetscape. Understandably this will be an ongoing project over the 4 more years of the BID and we will only give attention to the scope of works that are OUTWITH our council remit. In 2022 the BID used an efficient team of local tradespeople to commercially powerwash many of Rothesay’s streets, Guildford Square, and the Amphitheatre area, as well as paint the promenade railings, Guildford Square railings, public flower boxes and main street bollards. A new Bute map was erected at the Port Bannatyne facilities, the cleaning of bus shelters and fixing historical signage was also done. This may seem to be a mundane task to some; however, much maintenance and cleaning of street furniture is no longer within the council’s annual scope of works. Bute businesses realise that it must be managed, as maintenance is by far more achievable for the island than losing infrastructure, only never to be replaced as there simply isn’t the budget allowed. Bute street scene Beautifying Bute Businesses working together advertising BUTE Bute’s businesses had their very first paid joint advertising promotion nestled in a six-page Autumn/Winter marketing campaign in ‘Holiday West Highland’ which will be in readership circulation until March 2023. The advert shows all the island’s bars, eateries and top ten seasonal ‘things to do’ for visitors. Distributed through The Oban Times, over 50,000 printed copies are distributed in over 500 outlets including airports, high footfall retail outlets and ferry ports across Scotland. Going head to head alongside other popular Scottish holiday destinations, Bute businesses have now booked a Spring/Summer insert in the same paper which will focus this time on retail outlets, accommodation and Bute based seasonal events as the main theme. The Bute BID also negotiated preferential group rates for these inserts. Flowering hanging baskets were installed and maintained throughout the tourist season from June, and we intend to have this done annually in partnership with Bute in Bloom, earlier in the 2023 season. The other very successful provision in the town was that of the alfresco seating within the Amphitheatre on Montague Street. New ‘bird proof’ litter bins were purchased for the Amphitheatre which will assist our seated guests to use this area throughout its operation (March ‘til October). The popular outdoor chairs and tables managed by the BID on Guildford Square and at the Amphitheater will have their new contract submitted to the ABC for its seasonal return in 2023. The erection of the permanent canopy (council funded) allows its use even when it rains. It was again beautifully decorated at Easter with permanent faux flowering wreaths and a small family focused Easter event kicked off Bute’s seasonal months. These decorations were removed and stored for the winter and the BID Christmas plans will bring in the winter months. The purchase and build of two giant deck chairs and some smaller Visit Bute deck chairs have begged for many a photo opportunity! Their bright presence in the town alone created a number of ‘Bute’ stamped photo opportunities that will only spread our ongoing message; Bute is open, Bute is always fun and Bute welcomes everyone who can climb on and off a giant deck chair – turns out not such an easy task... Take our seat Page 66
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Working with Project Playpark, Bute BID submitted plans last year for a small children play area at Children’s Corner. Excitingly, the ABC announcement of £44,000 to fund the much-needed play facility for small children is the beginning of a longer term focus the business community actively want to support. We will explore other options and grant opportunities from funders for the young people living on the island and our many young visitors. This is a priority for the Bute BID. Shop front grants Our recent investment in 12 outdoor commercial projectors will answer the call for an event based illuminated island at various dates of the calendar Bute wants to promote. Be ready for our ‘Bute BID Christmas Switch On’ event at the end of November which will signal the winter season with creative use of lighting and pictures on various areas around Rothesay, new Christmas trees and even an augmented reality APP for the kids to try! The businesses now own the projectors and they will be used year round, with an idea for some revenue generation to be announced for local businesses in the future. Bute’s local council Amenities Team have been extremely supportive of our many ideas and wants for our island. Always on hand for discussion and action, Joe McCabe and his team have supported and, in many cases, explained the nuances and frustrations of projects and workings around the island. Partnering with his team and the input of local councillors has finally confirmed a £15,000 ABC grant to get the Rothesay Fountain flowing operation again. Illuminating NEWS!Child's play? team work makes our dream work To further enhance the towns retail appeal, a small budget (up to £750) was offered to Levy paying shop keepers should they wish to update, paint or install better signage to their shop fronts. Over 20 businesses have applied for this grant and 8 have been completed. The scheme was popular, using only local tradespeople and island based businesses to complete the works. This scheme will be ongoing. BUTE BID BOARD MEMBERS The Bute BID staff must be given recognition for managing and working with the huge variety of people, companies, community groups and regulatory bodies day in and day out. Not an exhaustive list, the BID staff are pleased that it now has open communication with many working groups over the last 10 months from; CalMac,VisitScotland, the Scottish Towns Partnership, Argyll and Bute Council, the Bute Community Council, Mount Stuart Trust, Bute Advice Centre, Rothesay Joint Campus, Beachwatch Bute, Bute Community Forest, Bute Kitchen, Bute Yard, the Isle of Bute Trust and Police Scotland to name but a few! Always with a listening ear On the Bute BID website for our second Bute BID business satisfaction survey. This will be online survey however, printouts will also be available at the BID office: 77 Victoria St., Rothesay. Keep an eye out... Page 67
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The BID Board and staff meet monthly with Argyll and Bute Council and Visit Scotland at a senior level. It’s this relationship that will give the BID opportunities to apply for funding and grants that only established government backed legal bodies, such as Business Improvement Districts, are able to access. Ongoing cooperation with the Council will mean developing ideas and funding opportunities for key areas such as Albert Pier and Children’s Corner, which will only serve to enhance the tourist experience of the island. There will be no slowing down for us and the Bute Board are already planning a number of exciting events and projects for Spring, Summer and Autumn 2023. However, we would love to hear from YOU! The second business survey of Bute BID’s points to action will be given out prior to our AGM, and this is where we need to hear from you. What do you think needs attention? Are there opportunities you think Bute BID should explore? Have you time to spend helping, or do you need help from us? Give us your thoughts, insights and ideas as soon as you receive the Bute BID Survey – we look forward to your input! The BID office is at Victoria Street and is open during office hours Monday to Friday. The staff want to encourage its use as a place for co-operation, information and a cuppa when needed! All the projects and actions mentioned have been achieved only through the financial support of over 300 Bute BID members. We thank you for that. The BID Board are all seasoned business owners who understand now more than ever is the time to fight harder for the island’s business success. Taking on ideas and working project by project, fostering good relations and building positive relationships with a whole array of key stakeholders is at the forefront of minds. Owning and operating an island business is complicated, and there is no ‘one size fits all’ solution to making everyone successful, especially in the current climate, however, collaborative working and a team approach certainly opens more doors and gets more support from external bodies, funders and our council than any solo effort. We will be announcing the date for our inaugural AGM as soon as the accounts have been made ready for the board. John Glen Chairman of the Bute BID LETTER FROM OUR CHAIR Page 68
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Climate Change Working Group Date: 20 January 2023 Climate Change Working Group Highlight Report Argyll and Bute Climate Action 1.0 Executive Summary This CPP sub-group, known as the Climate Change Working Group are planning the production of a Climate Change Action Plan for Argyll and Bute. The Action Plan is proposed to be produced by employing a Climate Change Project Manager to lead the process. The Climate Change Working Group recently agreed to start the project by recruiting a Project Manager this financial year. 2.0 Highlight Report 2.1 Action Plan background The purpose of the Action Plan is to establish a region-wide climate risk assessment and to develop an integrated set of adaptation, mitigation and engagement actions. The proposed post of Climate Change Project Manager will bring organisations, businesses and communities together to develop a shared vision and understanding of climate change risks and opportunities across the Argyll and Bute region. It will identify priorities for communities, areas and sectors that will establish where (both spatially and thematically) and how the region can increase resilience and adapt, mitigate and engage on climate change issues. It will identify, but not reproduce, climate change work either already happening or part of an organisation or business’s own responsibilities. 2.2 Funding The Climate Change Working Group are currently pulling together a funding package to support the post of the Climate Change Project Manager. The cost of a Project Manager post is estimated to be in the region of £120,000 over two years, which would include the salary of an appropriately qualified climate leader, associated employer costs, T&S costs, etc. Page 69 Agenda Item 9a
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Subsequent to previous calls for funding contributions, we had two firm contributions from partners: £20,000 NHS Highland - Argyll & Bute Health and Social Care Partnership £50,000 Argyll and Bute Council We also recently received funding from NatureScot to the tune of £7,000 for this financial year, and have submitted a further bid for funds from next year’s budget of £15,000. 2.3 Progress The Climate Change working Group decided to start the project with the budget we currently have. We have decided that we would advertise the Project Manager post with options for: i) 0.75 Full Time Equivalent for two years, or ii) 1.0 Full Time Equivalent for 18 months …depending on the preferences of the successful candidate. In any case we would need to continue searching for funding for either a continuation of the project timeline, or to provide additional assistance for the part time set- up. However, it was felt that finding £30,000 in year two would be achievable. 3.0 Summary 1. We propose producing a strategic Action Plan process as the best, and most thorough, way to address the climate emergency in Argyll and Bute. 2. We have an approved governance arrangement for the Climate Change Project Manager post. 3. We are actively pursuing the recruitment of a Project Manager to start this Action Plan work and hope to have someone in post before the end of the financial year. Stan Phillips, Chair, CPP Climate Change Working Group For more information, please contact: Stan Phillips, Operations Manager, NatureScot stan.phillips@nature.scot Page 70