The meeting focused on the approval of the Modern Slavery Human Trafficking and Safeguarding Statement and the Productivity Plan. Both documents were approved with minor amendments.

Modern Slavery Human Trafficking and Safeguarding Statement

The council discussed the Modern Slavery Human Trafficking and Safeguarding Statement, which outlines Elmbridge Borough Council's actions to mitigate modern slavery risks within its operations and supply chains. The statement covers the financial year from 1 April 2024 to 31 March 2025. It highlights the council's commitment to ethical leadership and transparency in combating modern slavery, a serious crime involving exploitation and abuse.

The statement will be signed by Councillor Rollings and the Corporate Management Board (CMB) and published on the council's website. Minor wording changes were made to the document, including:

• Adding a sentence to the legal declaration on page 4.4, stating that suppliers must comply with the Modern Slavery Act 2015 and the Public Contracts Regulations 2015.
• Including a clause on page 5.2 to ensure adherence to key performance indicators in supplier contracts.

Councillor Rollings approved the statement, noting its importance and the council's legal obligation to maintain such a document.

Productivity Plan

The Productivity Plan was introduced following the recent local government financial settlement announced by Simon Hoare MP, Minister for Local Government. The plan aims to help the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) understand effective practices across the country and identify areas for improvement.

The plan details the council's past achievements and current strategies to transform its organisation and services. It requires member oversight and endorsement before submission to the DLUHC by 19 July 2024. The plan will also be available on the council's website for public access.

Councillor Rollings endorsed the plan and delegated authority to the chief executive to make any necessary changes before submission. A minor amendment was suggested by Councillor Coats, replacing the phrase avoided costs of around £100,000 with created savings whilst offering clients an improved service to present a more positive outlook.