Agenda item

            The Chief Executive submitted a report concerning (a) proposed changes to the Council’s organisational and management structure, particularly, relating to accountabilities at the “Tier 1” and “Tier 2” level, and (b) a proposal to establish a One Swindon Multi-Agency Transformation Hub to deliver public sector transformation in Swindon.

            The Chief Executive presented the report setting out the reasons why the proposed changes were considered necessary at this time and detailing each proposed change to accountabilities. He referred to the significance and importance for the future of the Council and the Borough of the proposed One Swindon Transformation Hub. He explained that this report sought to gain approval for work to commence on establishing this multi-agency hub and that further reports would be made to Councillors as work progressed and the Hub developed.

            Members noted the proposed changes and commented on the importance of Streetsmart services to local residents and ward councillors. They sought reassurances that in the interim period whilst structural changes were being made, there would be continuity in the delivery of these services and contact points would remain clear and unambiguous. The Chief Executive and the Board Director, Service Delivery, confirmed that steps would be taken to ensure that there would be no significant effect on the delivery of these services and that clarity was provided to where responsibilities for services would rest in the interim period before the new structure was in place.

            Reference was made to the effective operation of the localities function. The role of localities in building community capacity and resilience, particularly in respect of support for children and families and adult social care, was welcomed but it was believed there was also support from many Councillors for the current role played by localities officers in supporting Ward Councillors in responding to issues affecting local residents across a range of different Services. The proposed changes to Housing services and to Public Protection were noted and Councillors hoped that the culture and experience of the Housing team would not be diluted by the proposed changes. In particular, it was hoped that the Housing team’s experience of dealing with problem tenants could be shared with officers across the Borough as a result of these changes.

            Resolved – (1) That, on behalf of the Council, the changes in management accountabilities and, where appropriate, structure for the Chief Executive, Board Directors and Tier 2 posts, as referred to in paragraphs 3.4 to 3.12 of the report, including the deletion of the existing Head of Public Protection and Streetsmart post, be approved

            (2) That, following formal consultation with affected staff, where required, the Chief Executive be authorised to implement the revised, interim structure as referred to in the report as soon as practicable.

            (3) That the Director of Law and Democratic Services be authorised to amend the Council’s Constitution to reflect the changes referred to in (1) and (2) above.

            (4) That the move towards more multi-agency ways of working referred to in the report, including exploration of a collaborative and impactful approach to volunteering, be noted and the Council’s participation in the development and implementation of a One Swindon Transformation Hub as referred to in paragraphs 3.13 to 3.14 of the report, be approved.