Purpose

A review of the structure of the Information Technology service is to be undertaken to determine the optimum functional and associated management structure taking into account the workforce sustainability strategy for the service. During this period there is a requirement for a number of functions to be undertaken and it is proposed that an honorarium be paid to the person undertaking these duties in addition to that post’s core functions. It is proposed that this be paid until the review has been completed, the new functional structure has been agreed, and the related posts have been filled, all of which should be concluded by 31 March 2024. The proposed honorarium will not have any impact on the number of PMG posts within the Information Technology service and the cost for a six-month period is £0.001m which will be met from the vacancy savings within the service.

Decision

The Chief Executive hereby approves the payment of an honorarium bridging Pay Points 357 and 358 (PMG2 to PMG3) for a period of up to six months from 1 October 2023 to 31 March 2024, pending the conclusion of a review, agreement of a new functional structure, and appointment to the related posts.

Alternative options considered

Without the honorarium to recognise the additional duties and in particular financial responsibilities, the Information Technology service would not have sufficient resources to undertake critical functions.