Agenda and minutes

There were no declarations of interest raised.

The minutes of the meeting were agreed as a correct record.

[A period not exceeding 20 minutes for statements from up to 5

members of the public on matters within the Committee’s remit,

proposing action(s) which may be considered or contribute towards the future development of the Committee’s work programme.]

There were no public statements.

The Scrutiny Panel gave consideration to the National Troubled Families Programme that was introduced in April, 2012 for a three year period.  During the first phase Doncaster agreed to help and turn round 870 families, who had been supported to gain employment, improve school attendance or stop any involvement in crime or anti-social behaviour.

Members noted that families had been encouraged to tackle the root of their issues and be full partners in the process, and have therefore felt listened to and taken initiative to be active in their improvement.  Therefore this has reduced the need to access high cost services in the future.

The first phase was successful therefore Doncaster had been invited to participate in the second phase programme running from April 2015 to 2020.  Each area has a set target through the indices of deprivation with 2950 families that required support in Doncaster. 

The programme was based on 6 family themes which families must have at least two, to be eligible but some would fall into each of the six categories. The themes are:

1. Parents and children involved in crime or anti-social behaviour;

2. Children who have not been attending school regularly;

3. Children who need help;

4. Adults out of work or at risk of financial exclusion and young people at risk of worklessness;

5. Families affected by domestic violence and abuse;  or

6. Parents and children with a range of health problems.

A presentation was provided to the Panel addressing the following issues:

The six family themes - Families have to meet a target and sustain it for a six month period but at least one year for education targets.  Therefore, whether it be 1 or 6 targets, the family had to meet all, to ensure they reached their appropriate stage.  If any of the targets were not met then the funding could not be drawn down.  For example, the school attendance percentage had increased from 85% to 90% and if there were 2 out of 3 children that met the DFE 90% target but one failed to do so then funding could not be achieved.

School Attendance – the children of families that were assisted sometimes had a very low or zero school attendance record, due to the complexities the families faced on a daily basis.  Some children were now reaching excellent attendance.  Community initiatives were being undertaken to ensure enhanced school attendance and the DfE saw Doncaster’s efforts as good practice.

Budget – It was noted that it had been reduced to less than half of the money available for phase 1, £1,800 instead of £4,000 and there was still a mix of attachment fees and reward claims.  Due to the high numbers of families in Doncaster that required assistance there was still a significant amount of income that could be secured.  It was stressed that families are not left without support if the Authority is not successful in achieving a claim.  To be successful in drawing down funds, it was acknowledge  ...  view the full minutes text for item 39.

The Committee considered the Scrutiny Work Programme and Panel Chairs updated Members on areas considered since the last meeting.

Each item set out on the Plan was addressed with and amendments made to ensure the plan for the rest of the year was realistic.

Resolved:-  That the Scrutiny Work Plan be noted and amended as discussed.