The Hillingdon Council Cabinet met on Thursday 19 May 2016, discussing updates on the Older People's Plan and the Carer's Strategy, and approving a new policy for temporary accommodation. The meeting also provided an update on the significant school capital programme.

Older People's Plan Update

The Cabinet received an update on the Older People's Plan for 2015-16, highlighting the extensive range of services provided to the borough's older residents. These services include a free telecare line for those over 80, free burglar alarms for residents over 65 (with over 7,000 fitted), free swimming, free allotments, and the brown badge scheme for over 65s. The council has also maintained a freeze on council tax for older people for ten years. Councillor Keith Burrows noted the success of community events, such as those at Uxbridge Library, which play a key part in the dementia strategy, and commented on the runaway success of the tea dances, observing a high demand and appreciative attendance. Councillor Ian Edwards, Leader of the Council, acknowledged the good work being done and the potential for further improvements. The recommendation to note the success of the plan was agreed.

Carer's Strategy 2015-18

The Cabinet discussed the Carer's Strategy for 2015-18, which is underpinned by the requirements of the Care Act. Councillor Keith Burrows moved the report, outlining the objectives of the strategy, which has been developed in partnership with health partners and the voluntary sector. He highlighted significant progress since the last report, referencing a recent Carer's Recognition event attended by himself, Councillor Edwards, and Councillor David Simmonds CBE, which served as a reminder of the importance of the work being done to support carers. Councillor Burrows also acknowledged the contributions of Councillor Beulah East, who has been a carers' champion, and her predecessors, Susan O'Brien and John Oswell, in developing the Carer's Service Checklist and Pathway. The strategy includes benefit advice and financial appraisals, as well as health and wellbeing activities, all aimed at making caring a sustainable option. The carers' engagement work is crucial for ensuring that information, advice, and support reach all parts of the carers' community. The recommendation to commend the report was agreed.

Temporary Accommodation and Private Rented Sector Offer Placement Policy

A new policy for temporary accommodation and private rented sector offer placements was approved. Councillor Keith Burrows explained that the report details the current use of temporary accommodation and the challenges faced by Hillingdon Council, like other authorities in London and the South East, in sourcing affordable options due to market pressures and capped housing allowance levels. While the number of people in temporary accommodation has remained stable, a higher proportion are now in expensive bed and breakfast accommodation, which is unsustainable for both the households and the council's revenue budget. The approved placement policy allows the council to look beyond its boundaries for affordable temporary accommodation, a practice already adopted by most London authorities. The report emphasizes clear priorities for placement within Hillingdon, considering healthcare, educational needs, and length of connection to the borough, supported by an equalities impact assessment. Councillor Burrows assured the Cabinet of the robust processes and checks and balances in place to ensure reasonable judgments are made. The recommendation was agreed.

School Capital Programme Updates

An update was provided on the school capital programme, which is a significant undertaking for the borough, with expansion moving into the secondary sector. Councillor David Simmonds CBE, Cabinet Member for Children, Families & Education, was absent due to travel issues, but the report detailed ongoing primary school expansions at Abbotsfield and Swakethis schools, with Northwood school already well advanced. The programme also includes plans for secondary school expansion, involving building extensions to existing schools and constructing new ones. The total investment in the secondary sector is £132 million, and in the primary sector is £139 million. The council has a strong record of delivering school projects on budget and on time. The recommendation was agreed.