The Policy Development Panel of South Holland Council met on Tuesday, 25 June 2024, to discuss a range of policy updates and reviews. Key decisions were made on the review of several policies, including the Unreasonable Behaviour Policy and the Health and Wellbeing Strategy. The meeting also included discussions on the South Holland Centre's performance and future plans.

Unreasonable Behaviour Policy

The panel reviewed the draft updated Unreasonable Behaviour Policy for the council. The policy, which replaces the former Vexatious and Unreasonable Behaviour Policy, aims to ensure clear processes when dealing with incidents of unreasonable behaviour and persistent complainants. The Information Manager and Data Protection Officer highlighted that the policy had been aligned across the partnership and included updates to comply with statutory requirements. Members welcomed the policy, noting its importance in protecting officers from abusive behaviour. They also discussed the increase in reported incidents of abuse, attributing it to both a real increase and more accurate reporting.

Health and Wellbeing Strategy

The panel considered the Healthy Living Action Plan and its associated recommendations. The Assistant Director of Wellbeing and Community Leadership presented the report, which was the culmination of work by a partnership task group. The task group focused on two key themes: 'Activity and Wellbeing' and 'Working with our Communities'. Members queried how low-cost activities were promoted across the district and were assured that a robust communication plan was in place. The panel agreed to combine the Healthy Living Strategy Review with the nine-month review of the Joint Scrutiny of the Healthy Living Action Plan.

South Holland Centre Performance

An update on the performance of the South Holland Centre (SHC) was provided. The Deputy Chief Executive for Communities outlined the progress made, including efforts to increase income, explore different operating models, and improve marketing activities. Members expressed the need for a Business Plan and financial targets to monitor the SHC's performance. The Portfolio Holder for Communities and Operational Housing assured members that the budget was well-managed and that financial data would be provided in due course.

ICT Policies

The panel reviewed several ICT Policies that were either due for review or overdue. The Business Intelligence and Change Manager informed members that the policies would be presented at the next Policy Development Panel meeting. Members thanked the manager for keeping the policy registers up to date and requested clarity on the status of pending reviews.

Policy Development Panel Work Programme

The panel discussed the Work Programme for the upcoming year. Members debated whether to retain longstanding pending items related to 'Planning Reform' and 'Planning Design'. They agreed to request an update on the current position from the Assistant Director of Planning and Strategic Infrastructure. The panel also noted progress on the Business Frontage Task Group and the upcoming special meeting on the South Holland Centre.