The Cabinet of Hillingdon Council met on Thursday, 21 June 2018, to discuss several key issues, approving recommendations on tackling loneliness in older residents, updating the Older People's Plan, and noting the council's financial outturn for the 2017-18 year. The meeting also saw the endorsement of the Domestic Abuse Strategy for 2018-2021 and a review of planning obligations.

Tackling Loneliness and Social Isolation in Older Residents

The Cabinet reviewed a report from the 17-18 Social Services, Housing and Public Health Policy Overview Committee concerning loneliness and social isolation among older residents. Councillor Philip Corthorne MCIPD, Mayor of Hillingdon, moved the recommendations, highlighting the council's commitment to improving the quality of life for its elderly population. Councillor Wayne Bridges, Cabinet Member for Community and Environment, presented the committee's findings, noting that while Hillingdon provides a comprehensive range of services, identifying and engaging with the most isolated individuals remains a challenge. The recommendations aim to introduce new activities and improve accessibility to encourage greater social interaction. Councillor Corthorne emphasised that social isolation can stem from various factors, including health issues, bereavement, or a lack of local family and friends, and acknowledged that the challenge is set to grow with an increasing over-85 population. The Cabinet agreed to the recommendations, recognising the need to keep services fresh and open to new ideas.

Older People's Plan Update

An update on Phase 61 of the Older People's Plan for 2017-18 was presented, highlighting the continued progress in improving the quality of life, health, and well-being of older residents. The report detailed various initiatives, including the provision of over 9,000 free telecare alarms, the introduction of magic tables in libraries to assist individuals with dementia, and continued funding for social events such as Christmas parties and trips. Free swimming and swimming lessons for those over 65, along with free allotments, were also mentioned. The report noted the success of the brown badge parking scheme, with over 11,751 active holders. Councillor Douglas Mills commended the formidable program of prevention for older residents, acknowledging its popularity and value. The Cabinet noted the success to date and continued progress of the plan.

Council Budget: 2017-18 Revenue and Capital Outturn

Councillor Jonathan Bianco, Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Corporate Services & Property, presented the final accounts for the year ending 31 March 2018. The report indicated a net in-year underspend of over £2.5 million, exceeding expectations. General fund balances increased to over £40 million, an improvement of nearly £1.6 million from the beginning of the year, achieved while freezing council tax and not implementing a social care precept. The capital underspend was nearly £21 million, largely due to slippage ¹ which is common in capital expenditure programmes. The Cabinet noted the budget position, the use of capital receipts for service transformation, and the Treasury management update, which showed no new borrowing was taken to fund capital expenditure. The council's loan portfolio averaged 3.39% and was reduced by £17.3 million. The Cabinet also approved the release of development and risk contingency funds, re-phased capital expenditure, and the appropriation of land at 1516 Welbeck Court, Welbeck Avenue, Hayes, from the housing revenue account to the general fund to be let as a commercial shop unit. Additional funding from Transport for London and gift funding for planning performance agreements were accepted. Changes to leisure fees and charges were approved, ensuring they remain competitive with neighbouring boroughs. The council also agreed to donate £14,800 to the Mayor's Charitable Trust, funded by curbside textile waste collection. Grant funding of £378,000 from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government for the Rough Sleeping Initiative Fund was accepted, with a particular focus on issues around Heathrow. Finally, a schedule of penalty charges for breaches of houses in multiple occupation² licensing rules was approved, to be in place before 1 October.

Domestic Abuse Strategy 2018-2021

Councillor Corthorne presented the Domestic Abuse Strategy for Hillingdon, 2018-2021, which had been approved by the Safe Hillingdon Partnership. The strategy prioritises tackling domestic abuse against women and girls, while also acknowledging that men and boys can be victims and women can be perpetrators. The report detailed the incorporation of national and international best practices and input from various stakeholders, including victims and their families. Significant organisational changes have been made, including the appointment of a strategic programme lead and a new domestic violence steering executive. Councillor Jane Palmer, Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care, and Councillor Gardner were commended for their leadership and commitment to this area. Councillor David Simmonds CBE endorsed the strategy, highlighting the long-term impact of domestic violence on children and the importance of addressing it to prevent future issues. The Cabinet endorsed the strategy.

Planning Obligations: Quarterly Financial Monitoring Report

Councillor Keith Burrows, Chair of the Registration & Appeals Committee, presented the quarterly financial monitoring report for planning obligations under Section 106³ and Section 278⁴ agreements. The council currently holds £13.8 million in planning obligations, with £3.8 million allocated to specific projects. An additional £3.7 million is held but currently unspendable due to various reasons, leaving £6.1 million as spendable but unallocated. The majority of these funds are earmarked for education. Councillor Burrows encouraged Cabinet colleagues to identify any funds within their areas that could be spent more quickly or combined for larger projects to benefit residents. The report indicated that in quarter four, an additional £1.7 million was added to budgets, and £2.7 million was passported out ⁵, demonstrating the council's effort to spend these funds efficiently. The recommendation was agreed.