Purpose

An update on progress made through the
Opportunity Bucks programme and impact this is making

Content

Cabinet received a report on
the progress of the Opportunity Bucks Programme. The Opportunity
Bucks programme aimed to improve the quality of life of residents
and ensure that everyone had the opportunity to succeed; 14
electoral wards had been identified which were impacted by areas of
deprivation. The work being delivered through the programme was
making an impact across the target areas. Outcomes for young people
in college had increased by 19%, over £760,000 of costs had
been avoided by preventing or reducing rough sleeping, over 360
homes had received targeted support from the Energy Doctor team,
and over 180 residents with severe mental illness had received
physical health checks. In addition, over 1,500 residents had
engaged to share their views and connect with services including
Thames Valley Police, Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue, Helping
Hand, Public Health and NHS services through Community Action Days,
where they had been provided with information, practical advice and
signposting.
 
The Council recognised that,
whilst good progress had been made through the programme thus far,
there was still more to do and challenges that residents were
facing that must be addressed and overcome. A number of priority
areas have been identified over the next year to enable the Council
to make further progress improving outcomes for
residents.
 
RESOLVED that the progress of the Opportunity Bucks Programme be
noted.