Decision details

The Senior Workforce Development Officer provided the Cabinet with the Human Resources Strategy 2023-28 and the Council Workforce Plan 2023-28.

The strategy and workforce plan set out a strategic and operational direction in terms of how the Council will utilise and develop the workforce to achieve the Councils’ vision and priorities in a climate of change and financial uncertainty.

The Deputy Leader took the opportunity to thank the officer for the comprehensive report and commented that final position statement demonstrated flexibility of the workforce and ensures that staff have the skills and knowledge to meet the needs of residence, which was highlighted during Storm Dennis and Covid pandemic.

The Deputy Leader was of the view that the Plan cited cautious ambition, in light of the financial challenges faced by the Local Authority and stated that it would assist with a diverse workforce, support performance and ensure staff wellbeing. The Deputy Leader added that the Plan reflected the positive working relationship with Trade Unions and encouraged all staff to become members.

Upon conclusion, the Deputy Leader emphasised the importance of the positive relationship with the Armed Forces and was pleased to note that the Gold Award had been retained.

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1.             To approve the Human Resources Strategy 2023-28;

2.             To approve the Council’s Workforce Plan 2023-28;

3.             To agree that outcomes will be delivered through related plans and strategies such as departmental Delivery and Workforce Plans, the Council’s Strategic Equality Plan, Digital Strategy and Office Accommodation Strategy; and

4.             To agree that monitoring will be in the form of an annual position statement providing data regarding progress towards meeting the Human Resources Strategy and Council Workforce Plan aims.