The Director of Finance presented a report of the Director of Technical Services, which set out the timescales for the presentation of reports to the Cabinet on the progress of the Strategic Change Programme. The Committee had identified the Strategic Change Programme as a critical issue for the Council and it had been included in the current year’s Audit Plan. A Member referred to the risks associated with the non-delivery of benefits of the Strategic Change Programme, and commented specifically upon the risks associated with the decision to retain Fernleigh respite centre (Cabinet minute 359 (17 March 2011) refers) in the light of key staff having left under Early Voluntary Retirement/Voluntary Severance.

Resolved –

(1)  That the timescales for the submission of Strategic Change Programme progress reports to the Cabinet be noted.

(2)  That the Health and Well Being Overview and Scrutiny Committee be requested to seek assurances from the Director of Adult Social Services in relation to the risks associated with the decision of the Cabinet to retain Fernleigh respite centre in the light of key staff having left under Early Voluntary Retirement/Voluntary Severance.