The Improvement and Scrutiny Committee - Resources meeting on Thursday, 27 June 2024, focused on the potential closure of council-operated care homes, the review of the strategic approach to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI), and the current situation regarding trade union time off within Derbyshire County Council.

Potential Closure of Council-Operated Care Homes

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to addressing public concerns about the potential closure of up to 11 council-operated care homes. This issue was raised by Mr. D Ingham, who questioned the shift from no plans to reduce care homes in January to proposing closures in April to achieve budget savings of £5.209 million. The Executive Director of Adult Social Care and Public Health clarified that the savings could be achieved through a combination of rightsizing and remodelling the care home offer, rather than specific closures. The decision was based on a review of current and future demand for residential care beds and an analysis of market gaps, particularly in specialist dementia care.

Review of the Strategic Approach to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

Wes Downes, Policy Manager, and Sally Pearson, Head of Learning and Development, presented the key results and findings from the public consultation on the proposed EDI Statement and Equality Objectives. The consultation, which ran from 28 February to 13 March 2024, received around 100 responses, primarily from council employees. The feedback indicated high levels of agreement with the EDI statement and objectives. As a result, the EDI Statement was amended to reflect a stronger commitment to both colleagues and communities. The committee resolved to note the consultation findings and the proposed EDI Statement and Equality Objectives, which will be presented to the Cabinet for approval on 13 June 2024.

Trade Union Time Off

The committee was updated on the current situation regarding trade union time off within Derbyshire County Council. The council follows the ACAS Code of Practice on time off for trade union duties and activities. The recognition agreement with Unison, Unite, and GMB, which includes provisions for trade union time off, is currently under review. Initial amendments have been shared with the unions, and further discussions are scheduled. The committee noted the current situation and the ongoing review of the recognition agreement.

For more details, you can refer to the Minutes and the Public reports pack.