Agenda item

To accept and note the information in the report.

The report was submitted by Cllr. Menna Trenholme

DECISION

To accept and note the information in the report.

DISCUSSION

The report was submitted stating that she would start with the Corporate Support Department's performance report. It was noted that the report outlined what had happened so far against the promises of the Cyngor Gwynedd Plan. Attention was drawn to some schemes in particular, such as Women in Leadership. It was noted that over 40 women had now been following the developmental programme with 33% of attendees having accepted a senior position since completing the Programme. It was added that a pilot scheme was underway to avoid unconscious bias and ensure equality by submitting anonymous application forms for Team Leader level posts and above.

As part of the Council's Language programme it was highlighted that the Language Strategy had been adopted in December. It was noted that as a result of the further research on changing street names in two pilot areas, a number of complexities had been highlighted and therefore it had not been feasible to proceed with this aspect at present. As a result, it was explained that the service was focusing on the sign installation scheme on settlements, bridges and district boundaries and increase the visibility of the project.

It was highlighted that the department anticipated that it would be overspending by the end of the financial year. It was explained that there was a combination of reasons for the likely overspending, such as increased pressure on a particular budget, e.g. increased demand on counselling and not meeting the income target for a range of services.

In terms of the Legal Service it was noted that the Cabinet Member was pleased with the day-to-day performance of the department. It was emphasised that the recruitment position was now in a healthy place with staff appointed. It was explained in terms of Propriety that a programme of seminars would be held with bodies explaining the basics of decisions in public bodies together with the constitutional and regulatory framework.

It was noted that the department had been working to support the Returning Officer and the Election Registration Officer in order to respond to new constituency boundaries of UK elections, the Elections Act 2022 and prepare for the Welsh Parliament Electoral changes. It was explained that arrangements for elections were now in place with Conwy Council and Denbighshire Council where constituency boundaries crossed county boundaries.

Observations arising from the discussion

·         It was noted that work had begun to resume seeking level 2 certification of the Disability Confident scheme, and that it was hoped that it would be completed by the end of March 2024. It was explained that the department was ambitious and keen to reach level 3.

·         It was highlighted with Prosiect 15, which was part of the Promoting Use of the Welsh language scheme, that extremely good work had been done, and thanks were conveyed to the young person who had been developing and creating original Welsh language content for social media.

·         It was noted that the Women in Leadership work was innovative and mentioned often externally as well.