Issue - meetings

This report outlines the council’s new approach to community cohesion and inclusion events, detailing the overarching, guiding approach and the specific components that shape how the council will mark and celebrate community cohesion and inclusion events moving forward through the adoption of the ‘Enabler Approach’ outlined in the report.

Cabinet RESOLVED to endorse the new community cohesion and inclusion events approach which will replace the existing approach agreed in 2011 comprising the components outlined in paragraph 3.2.5 – 3.2.15 of the report.

Eligible for call-in: Yes

Deadline for submission of call-in: 6pm on Monday 14 April 25

Councillor Mili Patel (Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance & Resources) introduced a report from the Corporate Director Children, Young People and Community Development which outlined the Council’s new approach to community cohesion and inclusion events, detailing the overarching approach and specific components that would shape how the Council would continue to mark and celebrate events moving forward.

In presenting the report, Cabinet noted Brent’s status as one of the most diverse boroughs in the country and a place where different cultures, faiths, and traditions were able to come together to create a vibrant and inclusive community.  Recognising this diversity as a key strength, members were advised the new approach had been designed to strengthen the efforts being made to celebrate and foster cohesion and collaboration amongst all residents.  With the previous policy last agreed in 2011 the new approach also reflected how the contextual landscape had changed in that time along with the need identified to deliver events as effectively and efficiently as possible.  Recognising the need for clarity, consistency, and sustainability the new arrangements had sought to adopt an 'Enabler Approach' based on what was felt to be a fairer and more targeted methodology focussed on empowering local communities, supporting grassroots initiatives, and ensuring that council resources were used effectively to deliver meaningful, high-quality events throughout the year.  Members noted that the new approach had also sought to build on an extensive programme of engagement with residents, partners, and stakeholders, including faith and community groups and staff networks as well as review of the approach within other London boroughs.  The efforts made to build on previous experience and develop a more strategic approach towards grant funding would also, it was felt, ensure community voices remained at the core of how Brent’s cultural fabric was celebrated enabling local communities to take the lead with the Council taking a supportive and strategic role in delivery.

In highlighting their support for the approach outlined, members commended the focus in seeking to establish greater clarity and consistency for all stakeholders involved in the arrangement of community inclusion and cohesion events, which it was recognised would not only enable the council to better focus its resources but would also provide clear expectations around the support available for partners and residents in organising events.

In welcoming the new approach outlined as a means of strengthening relationships, fostering understanding, and reinforcing Brent’s identity as a borough that embraced and championed diversity, Cabinet RESOLVED to endorse the new community cohesion and inclusion events approach which will replace the existing approach agreed in 2011 comprising the components outlined in paragraph 3.2.5 – 3.2.15 of the report.