To consider a report detailing issues experienced by communities throughout Wirral South on a ward by ward basis.  These issues have been collated by the Wirral South Community Representatives and compiled by the Engagement Officer into the attached report.  This report is a standing item on the Committee’s agenda.

A Report by the Wirral South Community Representatives set out progress to date following the co-opting of the five Community Representatives (Com Reps) to the Wirral South Constituency Committee ( WSCC) ON 15 October 2015. The report highlighted particular issues being experienced by the communities within the five wards and sought to bring them formally to the attention of the committee.

Kevin Sutton, Com Rep for Eastham addressed the committee to raise concerns over resolutions set by the WSCC in previous Committees having not been met. He reported that Officers had not met with Com Reps despite resolving to do so. He questioned the role of the Com Rep and queried if they were being taken seriously. He made reference to the Eastham Social Isolation Contract and Christmas Together Project and informed the Committee about the hard work involved. Mr Sutton then informed the Committee that he had been informed that a small grant scheme was available for local communities linked to the Gift Network, this was not something that he had been made aware of before and would have proved useful in his endeavours.

The Chair assured Com Reps that their work had proved to be invaluable and resolved to ensure that a meeting would be organised to address any concerns.

Councillor Phil Gilchrist requested, in light of the recent announcement of the forthcoming general election, that resolution two be amended to ask that each ward and local action team has the best endeavours to meet within 6 weeks of this Committee. This was duly agreed by the Committee.

Resolved That –

1)  the Chair and Vice – Chair meet with Com Reps within 4 weeks of this Committee.

2)  each Ward Local Action Team endeavours to meet within 6 weeks of this Committee; and

3)  all issues raised are noted by the Committee and subsequently discussed within the Local Action Teams