This week, the Waverley Council held several important meetings, resulting in key decisions that will impact our community. Here’s a breakdown of what was discussed and decided:

Overview and Scrutiny Committee - Services

Tuesday 25 June 2024

Services Work Programme 2023-2024

The committee reviewed and approved the Services Work Programme for 2023-2024. This programme outlines the council’s focus areas for the upcoming year, such as housing, environmental sustainability, and community health services. The programme aims to align with the council's manifesto pledges, particularly in improving local housing conditions and enhancing green spaces.

Q4 Corporate Performance Report

The Q4 Corporate Performance Report was discussed, covering the final quarter of the 2023-2024 financial year. While the council met or exceeded targets in public health initiatives and educational outreach programmes, areas needing improvement included waste management and recycling rates.

Councillor Paul Convery stressed the need for a strategic approach to address these issues:

We must adopt a more integrated waste management strategy that not only meets our current needs but also anticipates future challenges.

The committee agreed to develop an action plan to address these issues, to be reviewed in the next meeting.

Waste Management Services

Concerns were raised about declining recycling rates and increasing complaints about waste collection. Measures proposed included public awareness campaigns and more efficient waste collection routes. Councillor Jane Smith stated:

Our residents deserve a reliable and efficient waste management service. We need to ensure that our strategies are both effective and sustainable in the long term.

A comprehensive review of the current waste management system was commissioned, with findings to be presented at a future meeting.

Public Participation

Local residents voiced concerns about the maintenance of public parks and support for local businesses. The committee assured that these issues would be considered in future planning and policy-making.

For more details, refer to the public reports pack and the agenda frontsheet.

Landlord Services Advisory Board (Executive Working Group)

Thursday 27 June 2024

Annual Self-Assessment Against the Housing Ombudsman’s Complaint Handling Code

The board reviewed the Annual self-assessment against the Housing Ombudsman’s Complaint Handling Code and Appendix 2. The self-assessment identified areas where the council’s complaint handling met the Ombudsman’s standards and areas for improvement.

A councillor noted:

“It is crucial that we not only meet but exceed the standards set by the Housing Ombudsman to build trust with our residents”¹.

Housing Services Compensation Policy Review

The Housing Services Compensation Policy Review and the Housing Service Compensation Policy were examined to ensure fairness and transparency. Discussions focused on compensation eligibility and the claims process, balancing generous compensation with fiscal responsibility.

Waverley Homes Standard Update

An update on the Waverley Homes Standard highlighted progress in maintaining and improving housing standards. This includes refurbishments, energy efficiency improvements, and future housing developments. A councillor remarked:

“The Waverley Homes Standard is a testament to our commitment to providing safe, comfortable, and sustainable homes for our residents.”

Summary of Complaints and Service Improvements

The board reviewed the Summary of complaints and service improvements for year 2023-24, discussing trends in complaints and the effectiveness of measures taken to address them. Continuous improvement and proactive engagement with residents were emphasized.

Guildford & Waverley Joint Senior Staff Committee

Tuesday 25 June 2024 This meeting occurred, but no video or detailed transcript was provided.

Stay informed about your local council’s activities and decisions that impact your community.