Agenda item

To present the report of the Head of Profession (HR) and Transformation.

The report of the Head of Profession (HR) and Transformation incorporating the Self-Assessment and Performance (Wellbeing) Report 2024/25 was presented for the committee’s consideration. The development and publication of the report is a requirement under the Local Government (Wales) Act 2021 and Wellbeing of Future Generations (Wales) Act 2015.

Councillor Carwyn Jones, Portfolio Member for Housing and Community Safety presented the report in his former capacity as portfolio holder for corporate business and customer experience, noting that it is the first time the Council has combined its self-assessment, performance and wellbeing report for the 2024/25 year. The document demonstrates the Council’s integrated approach to planning, managing performance and promoting the wellbeing of future generations. It provides evidence of how the Council has delivered on its strategic objectives and priorities, used resources efficiently and managed risks effectively.

The report offers a clear overview of progress against the 2024/25 commitments in the Annual Delivery Document, the longer term strategic objectives set out in the Council Plan to 2028, and obligations under the Wellbeing of Future Generations (Wales) Act. It also reflects  the outcomes of the service review process in which each of the Council’s nine services undertook a self-evaluation against four criteria – service planning, financial planning, workforce planning and governance – highlighting any areas for improvement. In addition, the report records progress made on improvement matters identified in the previous self-assessment.

In scrutinising the report, the committee discussed the following matters –

·      Members noted that the National Resident Survey 2024 shows that 32% of respondents say they trust the Council. They asked whether this should be a cause for concern and what steps might be taken to strengthen public confidence.

Councillor Gary Pritchard, Leader acknowledged that the figure is disappointing, although not unusual compared with other authorities. He noted that building trust can be  challenging, particularly in the current climate where confidence in elected representatives at all levels is generally low. He emphasised that the Council is committed to demonstrating integrity, credibility and to serving the people of the island.

The Chief Executive added that declining trust in the public sector generally is a wider trend, with social media often shaping perceptions. He noted that the Council’s standing is broadly average and while improvement is always desirable, given external factors and influences, the position is not overly concerning.

Members discussed the importance of promoting the Council’s work more effectively. They highlighted a number of positive developments such as the Freeport, new nuclear initiative at Wylfa, and the acquisition of the former Anglesey Aluminium site for a prosperity park which show the island as forward looking and economically flourishing. While recognising that social media can be a source of misinformation and negativity, they also acknowledged its potential as a valuable tool for communication, engagement and openness. It was further noted that recent political consensus on major issues reflects a maturity of approach and a collective commitment to serving residents and their communities.

·      In a follow-up question, the committee enquired how the Council could strengthen its consultation processes to ensure that residents are well informed and feel confident in responding.

The Projects and Performance Manager explained that the guidance for staff on  consultation and engagement procedures has been reviewed. The revised guidance provides advice on reaching a wide range of residents, with particular emphasis on engaging hard to reach groups. The guidance has been approved and is being uploaded to the Council’s intranet for staff access. It also incorporates guidance on conducting impact assessments following policy changes or significant developments with the aim of ensuring that consultation is as effective and inclusive as possible.

·      The committee asked for an update on the Day Care Strategy which was marked Amber  on the 2024/25 work progress table.

Councillor Neville Evans, Portfolio Member for Adult Services reported that developments in day care provision in the Holyhead area which has entailed integrating services within the community with smaller, tailored activity groups have been well received by service users. The long term ambition is to extend this model across the island. He emphasised the importance of listening to service users and carers in shaping services and noted the value of a recent meeting with individuals living with dementia and an upcoming meeting with carers.

The Head of Adult Services confirmed the transition towards a community focused model  with smaller groups engaged in a wider range of activities chosen by service users themselves. The purchase of a minibus will further expand opportunities for participation. He explained that the change to a community based provision also requires adjustments for staff, which are being discussed as part of a three way engagement process involving service users, carers and staff.

·      The committee, in light of the announcement of a new small nuclear power station at Wylfa, sought clarification of the steps being taken to ensure appropriate education provision and training opportunities so that local young people can gain the skills needed to take advantage of the potential employment opportunities,  together with the capacity to deliver such courses. Reference was also made to planning, with members noting that the existing Local Development Plan is now outdated and does not reflect the island’s current circumstances or needs.

Councillor Gary Pritchard, Leader acknowledged the importance of ensuring that the benefits of the development in Wylfa are realised by the island’s residents. He noted that once discussions with the Council’s partners in this initiative begin, the specific requirements will become clearer. He emphasised that the regional skills partnership will play a key role alongside the Council’s close partnership with Coleg Llandrillo Menai, in establishing a strong platform for developing the skills required by the industry.

The Chief Executive said that the Council supports economic developments for the benefits they bring to the island and its residents. The planning system defines boundaries and evaluates impact assessments as regards labour and skills needs and allocates resources to ensure that young people can undertake the necessary training. Until this point, the council can only press governments to provide resources while being mindful of the importance of timing i.e. training must lead to real jobs or public confidence may be undermined. By working with its educational and training partners and also with the industry to ensure that prospective jobs are advertised locally, there are a number of practical steps the council can take to strengthen opportunities.

·      Members raised concerns about telephone response times and also requested that ward members receive a progress update on flood management schemes in their areas. The Chief Executive explained that the Council’s application for Welsh Government funding had not been successful, making implementation more difficult, but assured the committee that local members would be updated.

Having reviewed the Self-Assessment and Performance (Wellbeing) Report 2024/25, the Corporate Scrutiny Committee resolved to endorse the report and recommend it to the Executive.

Additional action – the relevant ward members to be provided with an update on flood management schemes in their areas.