Agenda and minutes

Apologies for absence were received from Mr J Bell, Dr S Haraldsen, Dr K Lockney, Mr R Watson and Mr SF Young.

(1)       Ms Earl declared a non-pecuniary interest in Minute 58 (Late Urgent Item) as she was an employee of Carlisle Key.

(2)       Mrs EA Mallinson declared a non?pecuniary interest in Minute 58 (Late Urgent Item) as she was the Local Committee’s representative on Carlisle Key.

RESOLVED,    that the press and public be not excluded from the meeting for any items of business on this occasion.

There were no public questions, statements or petitions to be considered at this meeting.

To confirm as a correct record the minutes of the meeting of the Local Committee held on 9 November 2021 (copy enclosed).

RESOLVED,    that the minutes of the meeting of the Local Committee held on 9 November 2021 be confirmed as circulated and thereupon signed by the Chair.

[Electoral Divisions: All Carlisle]

To receive a presentation from Cumbria CVS (copy enclosed).

The Committee received a presentation from Niall McNulty, Cumbria CVS North District Manager.

Members were informed of their strategic objectives which included:-

•        Make Cumbria a better place to live and work – through positive “system change”

•        Support members to achieve their goals and manage change

•        Identify and fill gaps in service provision around Cumbria (in partnership)

•        Ensure financial sustainability.

The Committee noted that Cumbria’s Third Sector had over 2,500 registered organisations with a similar number of small, unregistered organisations, 9,000 full?time equivalent staff and 50,000 volunteers.

Members acknowledged the large number of volunteers whilst highlighting the significant amount of ‘hidden’ volunteers within communities and asked whether data was available on those.  The District Manager explained that work was being undertaken with regards to recording this information.

A question was raised regarding the £400m to the Cumbrian Economy and officers confirmed they were headline statistics from national CVS figures.

The Committee discussed the duplication of work undertaken by both the CVS and other organisations and how this could be reduced.  The District Manager acknowledged that some duplication did take place and explained there was now an improved dialogue with other organisations which included the development of a network of community workers and groups to try and avoid competition and duplication.

During the course of discussion members drew attention to the invaluable support from local communities during the pandemic and emphasised the need to ensure this continued.

Members received details of the services which were provided and noted they included:-

·                Business Development

·                Funding Advice and Support

·                Carlisle Funding Fair

·                Governance Support

·                Training

·                Volunteer Brokerage

·                DBS disclosures

·                Network support - Trustee Network, Mental Health Provider Forum, Action for Health.

A discussion took place regarding the implementation of the health agenda; it was acknowledged that CVS was continually challenged with regards to funding whilst highlighting a role for the third sector.

Members were informed of the ongoing delivery which included funding support, governance support, organisation development, Carlisle & Eden Community Workers Forum and Trustees Network.

The Committee noted that future delivery would include:-

·                Physical Activity on Referral partnership - bringing together partnership;

·                Carlisle Resilience Co-ordinator;

·                County?Wide Funding Officer;

·                Community Groups Network develop a shared space for collaborative working, sharing and peer support. – A shared collective VOICE;

·                Forces Link CIC secured 2 years funding as independent project to support ex forces personnel and their families.

The Committee welcomed the Forces Link, highlighting the new Armed Forces Covenant and how Cumbria CVS could help to ensure this was embedded.  It was agreed that further information regarding the Force Link would be provided to the Local Committee’s Armed Forces Champion.

The local Member for Belah referred to the terminology used in the Organisation’s Values and asked when the decision had been made to change the reference to ‘equality’ with ‘equity’.  The District Manager emphasised that equality was part of their objectives and would provide further information direct with regards to the change in terminology.

The local Member for Belle Vue asked  ...  view the full minutes text for item 50.

[Electoral Divisions: All Carlisle]

To receive a presentation (copy enclosed).

The Committee received a detailed presentation on the Cumbria Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) Improvement Programme.

Members were informed that overall data for SEND was generally in line with national data and noted that those with Special Education Needs (SEN) were more likely to live in the most deprived areas of the county. 

The Committee noted there were 8,648 children and young people in Cumbria with SEN support and asked what proportion of the total population of young people this was.  The Senior Manager SEND and Inclusion confirmed this was a large percentage of children and agreed to provide more detailed information regarding the wider population.

Members were provided with an update on the progress received to date following Ofsted and the Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspection of the Cumbria Local Area Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) services in March 2019 which had identified nine areas of significant concern. 

The Committee was informed there was a strong leadership team with a shared ambition and rigorous oversight with a collective response provided through the SEND Partnership arrangements.

A discussion took place regarding children and young people with autism and noted that the inspection had found that those with autism and/or those who faced challenges with their social, emotional and mental health often did not receive the support that they needed.  Members noted the progress which had been made which included the offer of a second opinion for autism diagnosis, provision of support for emotional health and wellbeing for those with ADS with limited progress with regards to the ASD pathway.

Members drew attention to the provision of special schools in Cumbria and concerns were raised with regards to this provision being lower than the national school provision.  During the course of discussion concerns were also raised with regards to parents/carers having to personally contact special schools to secure a place. 

The Senior Officer acknowledged the need for increased provision and confirmed that future provision of special schools was being investigated and that an action plan had been implemented with special schools to improve service availability.  During discussion it was confirmed that the Authority consulted with special schools on behalf of parents/carers and it was agreed the Officer would investigate any specific issues.

The local Member for Stanwix Urban drew attention to the possibility of a local mainstream school providing specialist education for children with complex needs.  It was agreed that the Senior Officer would investigate this matter direct with the local Member.

A discussion took place regarding the impact of increased demand and emerging need due to the pandemic.  Members were informed that the Authority’s Learning and Improvement Team were investigating the issues with regards to lost learning and putting in interventions as appropriate.

Members raised their concerns regarding weaknesses in systems for ensuring a smooth transition and preparation for children and young people for adulthood and welcomed that this was being investigated.

The Committee noted that there was still a great deal more work to do, whilst welcoming  ...  view the full minutes text for item 51.

[Electoral Divisions: All Carlisle]

To consider a report by the Executive Director – Corporate, Customer and Community Services (copy enclosed).

This report provides an update on its agreed activity, a financial statement in support of these activities and requests decisions on a range of issues.

Members received a report from the Executive Director – Corporate, Customer and Community Services which provided members with recommendations and matters to note relating to budget commitments, grant allocations from the recommendations of its Strategic Grants Panel and other relevant matters relating to area planning.

The Area Manager informed the Committee he had received confirmation today that there was now the ability to carry forward funding.

The local members for Brampton and Longtown welcomed the funding extension of the AD122 Bus Service and offered their support and dialogue with the provider.

The Area Manager outlined the exceptional difficulties encountered to deliver the environmental lighting on Eden Bridge.  The local members for Stanwix Urban and Houghton and Irthington raised their disappointment that the scheme would not be delivered.  Following discussion it was agreed that the unallocated £20,000 would be used to re?instate this project.

The local Member for Botcherby asked for an update regarding the Thirwell Gardens/Jonny Bulldogs Lonning Scheme.  The Chair confirmed this scheme was not part of the funding referred to in this report and that an update would be provided direct with the Member.

The local Member for Botcherby, whilst welcoming the proposed scheme with regards to the London Road Bridge to Melbourne Park, raised his concerns that the funding available would not cover the costs of the project.  The Area Manager confirmed the funding allocated was to undertaken an initial feasibility study in preparation for any future funding which may become available.

The local Member for Dalston and Burgh received confirmation that refurbishment of the Edward 1 Monument would be undertaken.

RESOLVED,   that

                          (1)          the commitments made and the remaining balances within delegated budgets together with the grants detailed in Appendix 1 of the report be noted;

                          (2)          the following grants made from the Area Planning Fund (also detailed in Appendix 2 of the report) be noted:-

                                        (i)      £5,000 to Carlisle CAB towards the Carlisle Rural Outreach Project (CROP) in Longtown and Brampton;

                                        (ii)     £4,000 to Aupeer Community Interest Company (a Cumbrian based autism led not for profit organisation founded in 2021) towards start-up costs;

                                        (iii)    £5,000 to Rebuild Community Interest Company towards equipment during start-up phase;

                          (3)          grants made from its 0-19 Funding as listed below and summarised in Appendix 3 of the report be noted:-

                                        (i)      £4,000 to CADAS to deliver group awareness sessions within school settings;

                                                  (NB This is a one off payment, for one year only due to exceptional circumstances for increased demand.  The Panel does not normally agree to fund staffing costs).

                                        (ii)     £2,500 to Yewdale Community Nursery towards a post Covid early years wellbeing and development community project;

                                        (iii)    £2,000 to The Gillford Pathways Charity towards a multi-purpose sensory room in the Gillford Centre;

                                        (iv)    £600 to The Friends of Bishop Harvey Goodwin School towards funding of free fruit for Key Stage 2;

                          (4)          the changes to COMF funded projects (as outlined in Appendix 4 of the report) be agreed;

                          (5)          the unallocated £20,000  ...  view the full minutes text for item 52.

[Electoral Divisions: All Carlisle]

To consider a report by the Executive Director – Economy and Infrastructure (copy enclosed).

This report presents the Highways Revenue, Devolved Capital and Non-Devolved Capital budget finance reports, combined with the highways programme progress information, as detailed in the attached appendices.

Members considered a report by the Executive Director – Economy and Infrastructure which presented the Highways Revenue, Devolved Capital and Non-Devolved Capital budget finance reports, combined with the Highways Programme progress information.

The Committee was informed that the 2021/22 Highways Revenue and Highways Non?Devolved Capital budgets were forecasting on?budget and the 2021/22 Highways Devolved Capital budget was forecasting an underspend of £20,991.

The local Member for Belah raised his concerns regarding the deterioration of the safety railings at Hardwicke Circus and the effect this was having on the landscape.  It was agreed that a report on this matter would be presented to the next meeting of Carlisle Highways and Transport Working Group.

The local Member for Botcherby asked for further information regarding the U150 Victoria Road, Wood Street to Warwick Road A69 scheme.  It was agreed the Local Area Highways Network Manager would provide this direct.

RESOLVED,   that the following be noted:-

                          (1)          the Highways programme progress information (as shown in Appendices 4 and 5 of the report);

                          (2)          the various Highways Revenue budget allocations and headings (as detailed in Appendix 1 of the report);

                          (3)          the various Highways Capital budget allocations and headings (as set out in Appendix 2 of the report).

[Electoral Divisions: All Carlisle]

To consider a report by the Executive Director – Economy and Infrastructure (copy enclosed).

This report provides details of the meeting of the Highways and Transport Working Group held on 15 December 2021 and presents recommendations for the Local Committee to consider.  

Members considered a report from the Executive Director – Economy and Infrastructure which gave details of the meeting of the Highways and Transport Working Group held on 15 December 2021 and presented recommendations to the Local Committee for approval.

(1)       Minutes

RESOLVED,   that the minutes be noted.

(2)       2021/22 Flood and Development Management Update

RESOLVED,   that the report be noted.

(3)       Minor Amendments VO 62 – Craw Hall, Brampton

RESOLVED,   that

                          (a)          having taken into consideration the objections which were received, and the matters referred to in paragraph 122(2) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 (referred to in paragraph 7.2 of the report) the “No Waiting At Any Time” proposals for Craw Hall, Brampton are introduced from a point 16m north west of its junction with Millfield extending for a distance of 33 metres in a north westerly direction, (as shown on the plan attached as Appendix 5 to the report) as part of The County of Cumbria (Various Roads, Carlisle Urban and Rural Area) (Consolidation and Minor Amendment of Traffic Regulations) (Order 2001) Variation Order (No. 62) 20><;

                          (b)          that additional training will be provided to all officers who write committee reports and prepare Traffic Regulation Orders, particularly in relation to anonymising responses which are received during the statutory consultation period.

(4)       2021/22 Highways Budget/Programme Progress Report

RESOLVED,   that

                          (a)          the following be noted:-

                                        (i)        the Programme progress information (as shown in Appendices 4 and 5 of the report);

                                        (ii)       the various Highways Revenue budget allocations and headings (detailed in Appendix 1 of the report);

                                        (iii)      the various Highways Capital budget allocations and headings (detailed in Appendix 2 of the report);

                                        (iv)      there are no comments in the Appendices to bring to the attention of Local Members.  Any significant comments, changes and/or amendments will be highlighted here in subsequent and future reports to the Highways and Transport Working Group;

                          (b)          the changes to Appendix 5 of the report be agreed.

(5)       2022/22 Draft Devolved Highways Capital Programme

RESOLVED,   that

                          (a)          Local Committee agree and keep under review the Highways Draft Capital budget allocations for 2022/2023 (as detailed in the Appendices attached to the report) subject to confirmation of the budget allocation by the County Council in February 2022;

                          (b)          the proposed schemes (attached as Appendix 2 to the report) be noted subject to confirmation of the budget allocation by Cabinet in February 2022.

To receive updates from Carlisle Member Champions.

The Committee noted that due to the Christmas break there were no updates from the Children in Care and Armed Forces champions.

Members received an update from Christine Bowditch, the Local Committee’s Autism Champion.

The Committee was informed that since the last report concerns had been raised by two parents regarding their children’s education. 

Members were also updated on two new autism support groups for adults which were run by autistic adults.  It was explained that the two groups were being formulated by autistic adults with a view to offering support, and in one case campaigning for more awareness and consideration, for all people with a neurodiversity status. 

The Autism Champion emphasised that no one should be judged for being autistic or have to wait for many months even years for a potentially life changing diagnosis, vital help and support.  It was felt that society had to change; highlighting that autistic children, adults and their families wanted to be accepted in their communities, schools and workplaces.

Members were informed that this year’s World Autism Acceptance week (changed from Autism Awareness week after consultation with autistic people) would be held on 28 March-3 April 2022. 

Looking forward to 2022 it was hoped that life improved for everyone, and that the determination of Autistic groups, their families and friends to ensure awareness and acceptance for all neo diverse groups, and all disabilities continued to grow.

The current Forward Plan of business for future meetings of the Local Committee was noted.

To note the following future meetings of Carlisle Local Committee:-

(1)       Special meeting to be held on Tuesday 8 February 2022 at 10.00 am in Conference Room A/B, Cumbria House, Botchergate, Carlisle.

(2)       Ordinary meeting on Wednesday 9 March 2022 at 10.00 am in Conference Room A/B, Cumbria House, Botchergate, Carlisle.

RESOLVED,    that the next scheduled meetings will take place as follows:-

                           (1)         Special meeting to be held on Tuesday 8 February 2022 at 10.00 am in Conference Room A/B, Cumbria House, Botchergate, Carlisle;

                           (2)         Ordinary meeting on Wednesday 9 March 2022 at 10.00 am in Conference Room A/B, Cumbria House, Botchergate, Carlisle.

To consider a late urgent item (copy enclosed).

In accordance with the Local Government Act 1972 the Chair had agreed that consideration be given to the DWP Winter Household Fund for Carlisle Community Groups as a matter of urgency given that in view of the timescales involved a decision at the next meeting of the Local Committee on 9 March 2022 would be too late for the funding to be spent by the deadline of 31 March 2022.

A discussion took place regarding the proposed funding of £22,000 for Carlisle Matters and it was confirmed that £2,000 would be allocated to each of the 11 member organisations.

RESOLVED,   that

                          (1)       the following be agreed for community groups in Carlisle from the Household Support Fund:-

                                      (a)       £22,000 for Carlisle Matters (Carlisle Federation of Community Centres) to provide funding via the 11 Member organisations within the scheme which includes Longtown, Harraby, Petteril Bank, Currock, Greystone, Yewdale, Morton, Brampton, Botcherby and Belah Community Centres.  This will be wide ranging support to include food, fuel, bills, household items, essentials and wider essentials;

                                      (b)       £10,000 for Carlisle Key.  This will be wide ranging support to include food, fuel, bills, household items, essentials and wider essentials;

                                      (c)       £10,000 for Gateway 4 Women.  This will be wide ranging support to include food, fuel, bills, household items, essentials and wider essentials;

                                      (d)       £10,000 for Rebike. towards essential transport related costs – buying a bicycle;

                                      (e)       £10,000 for Carlisle Community Help.  This will be wide ranging support to include food, fuel, bills, household items, essentials and wider essentials;

                                      (f)        £10,000 for Carlisle Foodbank.  Towards food and other essential items;

                                      (g)       £10,000 Cumbria Meals on Wheels.  Towards delivering hot food;

                          (2)       the commitments made for Community Groups in Carlisle from the Household Support Fund as listed below be noted:

                                      (a)       £5,000 Brampton Area Action Group towards food, essential items and wider essentials;

                                      (b)       £3,000 Cornerstone, Denton Holme towards food, essential items and wider essentials;

                                      (c)       £2,000 Brampton Acting Together towards food, essential items and wider essentials;

                                      (d)       £2,000 St Herbert's Church, Currock towards food, essential items and wider essentials;

                                      (e)       £2,000 Elim Community Church (Oasis Food Pantry) towards food, essential items and wider essentials;

                                      (f)        £2,000 The Parish of Four Communities (TP4C) towards food, essential items and wider essentials;

                                      (g)       £2,000 Vineyard Church towards food, essential items and wider essentials.