Issue - meetings

It is recommended that Cabinet:

a)    Approves the budget proposed for 2026/27 over the activities as described in Section 3 of the report, to be financed £100,000 added into GF budgets and £30,000 from the HRA unallocated efficiency savings; and

b)   Agrees that any underspend within a project can be distributed amongst the pre-agreed projects to enhance delivery.

The Business Manager- Healthy Place was in attendance to provide an update on the delivery of proposals to assist tenants and residents with the rise in the cost of living.  The report detailed actions undertaken and the proposed activities for activity in 2026/27. Members noted the report and welcomed the work to support residents.

AGREED (unanimously) that Cabinet:

a)    Approves the budget proposed for 2026/27 over the activities as described in Section 3 of the report, to be financed by £100,000 added into GF budgets and £30,000 from the HRA unallocated efficiency savings; and

b)   Agrees that any underspend within a project can be distributed amongst the pre-agreed projects to enhance delivery.

Reasons for Decision:

To support tenants and residents with the ongoing cost of living challenges.

Options Considered:

The alternative option includes not providing an additional budget and programme specially to address issues resulting from the cost-of-living crisis. This has been discounted due to the council’s desire to support those residents most in need, with a focus for the coming year of support on meeting basic needs for the most vulnerable.