Agenda, decisions and minutes

To receive disclosures of personal interest from Members in accordance with

the Code of Conduct

Note:

1. Members are requested to identify the item number and subject matter

that their interest relates to and signify the nature of the personal

interest: and

2. Where Members withdraw from a meeting as a consequence of the

disclosure of a prejudicial interest they must notify the Chairman when

they leave.

Councillor B Stephens – Personal Interest – Item 2 – “I am the Chairman of National Association of pensioners”

To consider the decision taken by Cabinet on the 19 September 2024 on the Residential Care Homes for Older People

The Service Director Democratic Services & Communications presented the report which outlined the procedure for the meeting, as set out in rule 17 of the Overview & Scrutiny Committee Procedure Rules. The Service Director advised that a call-in request was received from County Borough Councillors C Lisles, K Johnson and P Evans within the prescribed timescales, on 24 September 2024, which complied with the relevant criteria and considered valid by the proper officer

The call-in requested that the decision of Cabinet in respect of Residential Care Homes for Older People taken at its meeting held on the 19th September 2024 be considered by the Overview & Scrutiny Committee.

The Service Director outlined the procedures for the meeting with the three signatories, who signed the call-in form, to address Committee first, setting out their reasons for requesting the call-in and why they consider the decision should be referred back to the decision maker for reconsideration. Secondly, the registered public speaker will have the opportunity to address Members before the Director of Adult Services and Cabinet Member address the comments made by the speakers. Members of the Overview & Scrutiny Committee will have the opportunity to consider the valid reasons set out in the report together with all contributions before voting on whether they consider whether the matter should be referred back to Cabinet.

It was confirmed that the nominated signatory, Councillor C Lisles would make the final address before a roll call vote is taken on whether or not to refer the matter back to the relevant decision maker for reconsideration. It will be for the Director of Legal and Democratic Services to clarify and summarise the Committee’s decision.

Councillor C Lisles

Councillor Lisles stated that she is aware of the cost pressures facing the Council but felt this decision needs to be based on more comprehensive information presented and a thorough assessment has been undertaken to ensure transparency.  Councillor Lisles stated that she did not agree that the report presents a more cost effective solution for care homes which are sustainable for the future, as once changes are made there will still be a £7m deficit.  Councillor Lisles referred to the occupancy rate of Pentre House being 62% which is lower than Cae Glas at 71%, which she suggested is a different cause to close.  She questioned why Cae Glas would be proposed for closure when there is a waiting list and stated that a new evidenced based report with more information for each care home with reasons for the deficit made clear including detail on the building, design, maintenance and staff costs.  Detail is also needed on the number of residential care beds that will be needed now and in the future. 

Councillor P Evans

Councillor Evans stated that this decision has come as a shock to many residents.  A decision that will affect many people living with dementia which will be an emotional and worrying move for residents with the care staff being second families to residents.  Expecting residents to move from  ...  view the full minutes text for item 6.

To consider any items, which the Chairman, by reason of special circumstances, is of the opinion should be considered at the meeting as a matter of urgency.

None