The Scottish Borders Council meeting on 27 June 2024 focused on the approval of the British Sign Language Plan 2024-2030 and the Local Child Poverty Report 2024-25. The council also discussed the progress of the Joint Transformational Change Programme with Live Borders.

British Sign Language Plan 2024-2030

The council approved the British Sign Language Plan 2024-2030, which aims to improve accessibility and services for the deaf community in the Scottish Borders. The plan, developed in collaboration with NHS Borders, outlines measures to enhance communication support and increase awareness of British Sign Language (BSL) across public services. Councillors highlighted the importance of inclusivity, with one stating, This plan is a significant step towards ensuring that our deaf community has equal access to services and opportunities ¹.

Local Child Poverty Report 2024-25

The council reviewed and approved the Local Child Poverty Report 2024-25, which includes a progress report for 2023. The report provides data and statistics on child poverty in the region and outlines strategies to reduce it. Key measures include increasing support for low-income families and improving access to education and healthcare. The council emphasised the need for continued efforts, with one councillor noting, Addressing child poverty is a priority for this council, and we must ensure that our strategies are effective and impactful ².

Joint Transformational Change Programme with Live Borders

The council discussed the progress of the Joint Transformational Change Programme with Live Borders, an organisation responsible for delivering cultural and leisure services in the region. The programme aims to enhance service delivery and improve community engagement. The council reviewed updates on various service areas and locations, and discussed recommendations for future actions. One councillor remarked, The collaboration with Live Borders is crucial for the sustainable development of our cultural and leisure services ³.

Standards Hearing

The council also held a Standards Hearing to address a complaint against a councillor. The hearing concluded with a written decision, which was appended to the meeting documents. The details of the complaint and the decision were not discussed in detail during the public session.

For more information, you can refer to the Agenda frontsheet and the Public reports pack.