This week, Leicester City Council held three significant meetings, covering a range of topics that affect our community. Here’s a detailed look at what was discussed and how it impacts you.

Economic Development, Transport and Climate Emergency Scrutiny Commission

The Economic Development, Transport and Climate Emergency Scrutiny Commission met on Wednesday, 26 June 2024. This commission is tasked with scrutinising policies and projects related to economic growth, transportation, and climate change.

Waterside Development Update

A major focus was the Waterside development, a regeneration project covering approximately 100 acres. Key points included:

• Friars Mill: The council has restored Friars Mill, now managed by the Chamber of Commerce, blending historic buildings with new office spaces.
• Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO): A CPO for 17 acres aims to facilitate housing and office schemes, enhancing market competition.
• Funding: The project has received a £30m grant from the Leicester City Council Capital Programme, Local Growth Fund, and Right to Buy receipts, attracting £300m in private investment since 2015.
• Public Spaces and Flood Risk Management: The Commission discussed the development's impact on public spaces and flood risk management, with contractors like Keepmoat Homes involved.

The Chair praised the project and requested a follow-up report and site visit.

Electric Vehicle Charging

The Vice-Chair updated on the informal scrutiny of Electric Vehicle (EV) charging points. The task group has begun its work, focusing on current EV infrastructure and funding. Future sessions will involve stakeholder insights.

Worker Exploitation

The Commission reviewed a report on worker exploitation, highlighting:

• Labour Market Partnership: Established to address exploitation concerns, particularly in textiles.
• Council's Limited Powers: Enforcement lies with national agencies.
• Community Safety Coordinator: Appointed to collaborate with regulators and communities.

The Commission emphasised mapping businesses engaged in exploitation and urged further discussion in the next municipal year.

LLEP Arrangements

A report on the Leicester and Leicester Enterprise Partnership (LLEP) detailed:

• Government Policy Changes: Shifting roles toward upper-tier authorities and elected leaders.
• New Structure: Phasing out the LLEP Board and establishing a new business engagement structure.
• Careers Hub: Retention and redesign of services, supported by LLEP reserves until March 2026.

The Commission requested more details on a £1m grant to IBM.

Health and Wellbeing Board

The Health and Wellbeing Board met on Thursday, 27 June 2024, covering a range of health topics.

Sexual Health

Laura French presented a Health Needs Assessment on Sexual Health. Key points included:

• High STI Rates: Leicester has a high prevalence of HIV and rising rates of gonorrhea and syphilis.
• Access to Contraception: Issues with accessing long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) like coils and implants.
• New Service: Midlands Partnership NHS Foundation Trust began providing sexual health services on 1 April 2024.

Tuberculosis

Dr Mary Hall highlighted a sharp rise in TB cases, making Leicester the second highest in England. The Board discussed:

• Minority Ethnic Groups: Higher impact on people from South Asia.
• Screening Programmes: Effectiveness and challenges.
• Strategy Development: Raising awareness, increasing screening, and improving support for TB treatment.

Annual Report and Racial Disparities

The Board reviewed its Annual Report and discussed racial disparities in maternity care, emphasising the need for culturally competent services and better data use.

Black Mental Health and Me

Mark Evans presented the “Black Mental Health and Me” report, addressing mental health disparities in the Black community. Recommendations included:

• Culturally Competent Care: Improving access and trust in mental health services.
• Collaboration: Working with the African Heritage Alliance to implement changes.

Adult Social Care Scrutiny Commission

The Adult Social Care Scrutiny Commission also met on Thursday, 27 June 2024, discussing policies and services for vulnerable adults.

Charging Policy

The Commission reviewed a proposal to include the enhanced part of Personal Independence Payment (PIP) in social care charges. Concerns were raised about the financial burden on vulnerable individuals, and further engagement was recommended.

Reablement Service

A report on the Reablement Service, which supports hospital-to-home transitions, highlighted growth and challenges like hospital readmissions and double-handed care.

Autism Needs

The Commission discussed the growing needs of individuals with autism, recommending the addition of the Autism Placed Based Delivery Plan to the work programme.

External Workforce Strategy

The draft strategy focused on improving workforce conditions, reducing zero-hour contracts, and enhancing training opportunities. Consultation with the workforce was recommended.

Carer Support and Day Centre Update

Updates were provided on the carer support service and the closure of Hastings Road Day Centre, with a final update requested upon completion of transitions.

Get Involved

Residents are encouraged to:

• Submit Comments: Participate in consultations on council policies and projects.
• Attend Meetings: Public meetings are open for attendance.
• Contact Councillors: Share your views and concerns with local representatives.

Stay informed and engaged with your local council's activities to help shape the future of Leicester.