This week, Manchester City Council held several meetings, covering a wide range of topics from domestic abuse and children's social care to planning applications and environmental strategies. Here’s a detailed look at the key discussions and decisions made:

Domestic Abuse and Children's Social Care

On Wednesday 26 June 2024, the council reviewed its approach to domestic abuse and the national policy changes on children's social care. The meeting highlighted that more than 55% of children subject to a Child Protection Plan in Manchester are living in households where domestic abuse is identified¹.

In Manchester we have very high levels of domestic abuse and we know it’s a really significant factor for children subject to child protection plans but also children in need more generally.

The council outlined its response to domestic abuse, noting a significant increase in demand for services, particularly affecting Black and minority ethnic communities. The DAISY programme at the Royal Manchester Children's Hospital was specifically mentioned for its early intervention approach.

The committee also discussed the Children's Social Care National Framework, which aims to shift the focus from crisis intervention to early intervention and prevention. Manchester City Council submitted its response to this consultation in May 2023.

Resources and Governance Scrutiny Committee

On Thursday 27 June 2024, the Resources and Governance Scrutiny Committee discussed the implementation of the Electoral Commission's recommendations following Manchester's 2022 local elections. The council has already introduced a new system for verifying voter identities but still needs to improve training for polling station staff.

The committee also examined the new Contract Management System, which will cost £1.2 million to implement but is expected to save the council £500,000 per year. This system aims to provide a single source of truth for all council contracts, automating many processes and improving data and intelligence.

Lastly, the committee scrutinised the council's progress on its Social Value Policy. Despite some concerns about the lack of quantifiable measurements, the council committed to continuing its efforts to embed social value in its procurement processes.

Licensing Sub-Committee

On Monday 24 June 2024, the Licensing Sub-Committee granted a new premises licence for Yan Colombo, a Sri Lankan restaurant at the Great Northern Warehouse. The licence was granted with conditions, including restricting the use of the outdoor area after 23:00 to address residents' concerns about noise pollution.

Environment, Climate Change and Neighbourhoods Scrutiny Committee

On Thursday 27 June 2024, the Environment, Climate Change and Neighbourhoods Scrutiny Committee discussed the council's environmental strategy. While the council is on track to reduce carbon emissions by 13% by 2025, it is not meeting its target of reducing waste by 10% by 2025. The committee also discussed the council's procurement strategy and its impact on Scope 3 emissions².

Cultural Strategy and Victoria North

On Tuesday 25 June 2024, the council reviewed its Cultural Strategy and plans for a Victoria North neighbourhood development order. The Cultural Strategy aims to increase participation in arts and culture, while the Victoria North project focuses on major regeneration.

Communities and Equalities Scrutiny Committee

On Tuesday 25 June 2024, the Communities and Equalities Scrutiny Committee discussed the Manchester Volunteer Inspire Programme (MCRVIP) and the Equality Objectives for 2024-2028. The programme aims to increase volunteering, while the equality objectives focus on improving diversity and accessibility in council services.

Health Scrutiny Committee

On Wednesday 26 June 2024, the Health Scrutiny Committee discussed the Manchester Safeguarding Partnership Annual Report and the findings of the Independent Review of Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust. The committee expressed concerns about the impact of these issues on patients and their families.

Planning and Highways Committee

On Friday 28 June 2024, the Planning and Highways Committee considered four planning applications. Three were approved, including a 136-apartment building at Land at Cornbrook Road and a new restaurant at 190 Burton Road. One application for co-living accommodation at Henesy House 4 Nobby Stiles Drive was refused due to concerns about the quality of accommodation.

The committee also noted the latest version of the Greater Manchester Minerals and Waste Plan, which sets out a strategy for waste and mineral management in the region.

For more detailed information, you can access the full reports and meeting transcripts through the provided links.