Issue - meetings

To review a report which was considered at Cabinet on 30 June 2020.

The committee reviewed the report, ‘Covid-19: How well has Dorset Council responded to meeting the needs of vulnerable groups during ‘lockdown’, which had been considered at Cabinet on 30 June 2020.  It was noted that Appendix 1 to the Cabinet report, had been updated as it had been formally signed off by the Equality and Diversity Action Group, who were responsible for reviewing and signing off EqIAs in Dorset Council.

The Portfolio Holder for Corporate Development and Change provided information on the associated round table discussions that had taken place with a number of groups.

Councillors considered the issues arising from the report and during discussion the following points were raised:

·                It was noted that further analysis of the information was to be undertaken as part of the council’s equalities duties

·                Issues around domestic abuse were raised and officers noted that concerns in this area could be added to the action plan.  This was also something being discussed between the council and partners in terms of ensuring that the voices of carers and those living with dementia were heard

·                In response to a point raised, it was noted that work was being done with organisations such as the Dorset Blind Association and citizens advice as to the best way to make information available

·                There were still issues around community shielding that needed to be addressed and actions would be included within ‘business as usual’ work

·                There was a strong group of community sector organisations working together as well as joined up working with colleagues in the CCG about how the council and organisations worked together in reset and recovery mode

·                Issues were raised in respect of anti social behaviour associated with young people, number of referrals for free school meals and issues around older people and domestic violence.  In addition, a point was raised about concerns expressed about the lack of information available to local community support groups which it was felt had not been addressed in the report

·                Support for carers was being provided including making safe spaces available in day centres to support wellbeing groups

·                Intelligence systems were being used to identify those most at risk of vulnerability, mental health etc.

The Portfolio Holder thanked the committee for their comments and noted that action points would be taken away from the meeting.