Issue - meetings

This report presents and seeks approval for the delivery plans proposed to take forward implementation of the Poverty Commission recommendations.

Cabinet RESOLVED:

(1)     To note and approve the delivery plans attached as Appendices 1-4 of the report.

(2)     To note the proposal that Cabinet would monitor the implementation of the delivery plans by receiving regular updates for each of the workstreams: housing, economy and jobs, financial inclusion and welfare and the overview recommendations.

The Lead Member for Housing and Welfare Reform, Councillor Southwood, introduced the report, which outlined the action plan developed to progress implementation of the recommendations of the Poverty Commission, first agreed by Cabinet in September 2020. The actions had been subject to consideration by, Full Council, scrutiny and community stakeholders, with the Consultative Group set up to monitor progress on implementation having also conducted their first meeting.

Members heard that the delivery plan would be materially linked to the actions developed from the Climate Emergency Strategy and the Brent Black Community Action Plan.  Cabinet also noted the intention to draw on lived experience along with the knowledge, perspectives resources and experiences of the range of individuals and organisations already active in addressing poverty in order to fully embed the actions within the Council’s overall objectives and priorities and as part of the Borough Plan.

In discussing the actions outlined, Cabinet were keen to highlight the focus on actions designed to tackle issues related to housing and the economy with the need to continue lobbying government for support in this area also identified as a key issue.

Members further commended the proposals to develop a community led housing project for single homeless households and support towards the establishment of more sustainable food aid schemes, improving financial inclusion and reducing digital poverty. Support was also expressed  for the emphasis on the role of job quality and support, the Council’s role as a disability competent employer and the continuing progress towards Brent as a ‘living wage place’.

Having noted the Council’s commitment towards delivery of the actions identifiedit was RESOLVED that Cabinet:

(1)     note and approve the delivery plans attached as Appendices 1-4 of the report.

(2)     note the proposal that Cabinet would monitor the implementation of the delivery plans by receiving regular updates for each of the workstreams: housing, economy and jobs, financial inclusion and welfare and the overview recommendations.