Issue - meetings

The Cabinet considered a report of the Director of Public Health regarding the outcome of consultation on the proposed delivery model for homeless support and seeking approval to cease funding a dedicated homeless support service, and instead to provide support via the Council’s existing public health services.  A copy of the report, marked ‘Agenda Item 5’, is filed with these minutes.

The Cabinet noted comments from Mrs A. J. Hack CC on behalf of the Labour Group, a copy of which is filed with these minutes. 

Referring to Mrs Hack’s comments, the Director clarified that the homeless support was a single service, albeit currently with two providers, and explained how the review had encompassed all elements of the service.

Members joined with Mrs L. Richardson CC in expressing support for the new delivery model.

RESOLVED:

a)    That the outcome of the public consultation, including comments of the Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee, on the proposed delivery model for homeless support across Leicestershire be noted;

b)    That the recommended model for homeless support detailed in paragraphs 52 to 58 of the report be approved with a view to commencing the new model on 1 April 2024;

c)    That it be noted that the County Council’s funding does not pay for the running of the Falcon Centre (a homeless hostel operated by Falcon Support Services, currently commissioned by the County Council to provide a homeless support service) and that is not the purpose of such funding.

(KEY DECISION)

REASONS FOR DECISION:

Following a review of need, existing service provision, responsibilities of the County Council, and a review of consultation responses, a revised delivery model is proposed that offers a broader health and wellbeing offer and greater coverage across Leicestershire.

The current contract for the provision of homeless support services ends on 31 March 2024.

The Medium Term Financial Strategy 2023/24-2026/27 includes a requirement for savings via a review of homeless support services.