The meeting focused on two main topics: a presentation by Beat the Cold and a discussion on strengthening relationships with Town and Parish Councils.

Beat the Cold Presentation

Overview: Fiona Miller from Beat the Cold presented an overview of their services, focusing on their work to combat fuel poverty and improve energy efficiency in Staffordshire Moorlands. Beat the Cold is an energy advice service and charity commissioned by Staffordshire Moorlands District Council (SMDC) to support vulnerable residents.

Key Points:

• Services Provided: Beat the Cold offers energy advice, retrofit schemes, and support for vulnerable residents. They have been operating for over two decades and are familiar with NICE guidelines¹.
• Performance Data: In the last 12 months, they supported 451 households with 672 enquiries. They issued over £60,000 in fuel vouchers and provided food bank vouchers and water tariff support.
• Challenges and Capacity: Fiona acknowledged past capacity issues but assured that they are being addressed. They are recruiting more staff and improving their processes.
• Case Studies: Two case studies were presented, highlighting the impact of their work on local families in Cheadle and Leek.
• Future Plans: They aim to expand their outreach and improve their services, including more targeted work and events.

Discussion:

• Councillor Johnson: Raised concerns about past capacity issues and asked about future plans to address them. Fiona assured improvements are underway.
• Councillor Campton: Asked about performance targets and challenges. Fiona confirmed they are on track to meet targets and are focusing on more targeted outreach.
• Councillor Giroz: Inquired about support for rural residents. Fiona agreed to analyze data to ensure rural areas are not left behind.
• Councillor Ward: Emphasized the importance of ongoing support and asked about plans beyond immediate relief. Fiona discussed long-term strategies and potential pilot projects.

Strengthening Relationships with Town and Parish Councils

Overview: The council discussed a report on improving relationships with Town and Parish Councils. The aim is to create a more cooperative and effective partnership.

Key Points:

• Current Situation: Staffordshire Moorlands has 42 active Town and Parish Councils. The report highlights the need for better communication and collaboration.
• Proposed Actions:
  • Engage with Town and Parish Councils through the Parish Assembly.
  • Set up a working group to develop a joint action plan.
  • Consider creating a regeneration fund for small projects.
  • Improve communications through digital newsletters and other means.
• Potential Outcomes: More town centre partnerships, better support for village regeneration, and improved planning processes.

Discussion:

• Councillor Mullyan: Welcomed the report and emphasized the importance of listening to Town and Parish Councils.
• Councillor Haynes: Supported the town centre partnership approach and the small regeneration projects fund.
• Councillor Johnson: Suggested improving the Parish Assembly and making minutes publicly available.
• Councillor Ward: Highlighted the importance of learning from parish councils and involving them in decision-making.
• Councillor Beswick: Suggested consulting all parish councils, not just those attending the Parish Assembly, and improving planning support.
• Councillor Taylor: Called for ambition in funding and ensuring money is well spent.
• Councillor Swindley: Mentioned the inclusion of town clerks in the Parish Assembly and the importance of their role.

The meeting concluded with a consensus to move forward with the proposed actions and to ensure that the process is driven by the needs and input of Town and Parish Councils.