Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: February 11, 2026

Purpose:

Content: Decision   RESOLVED that Cabinet agreed the financial implications of the restructure of the Electoral Services Team approved by the Personnel Committee on 2 February 2026 at a cost in financial year 2026/27 of up to £57,686 inclusive of on costs.   Reasons for decision   A review of staffing requirements identified that the current structure was insufficient to meet existing service demands and would not be able to cope with the expected increase in workload arising from legislative changes and forthcoming elections.   The review recommended the creation of a new Deputy Electoral Services Manager post to strengthen operational oversight, create a deputised position in the event of an absence of the Electoral Services Manager, reduce reliance on temporary staff, support succession planning and ensure that critical functions can be delivered accurately and on time.   The Personnel Committee approved the new structure at its meeting held on 2 February 2023 and consequently approval is sought from the Cabinet for the funding required in financial year 2026/27 for the new post of Deputy Electoral Services Manager.   Alternative Options Considered   Not fund the creation of the new post - This would not have addressed existing capacity pressures, creates continued risk of service failure, and does not provide the resilience required for statutory functions.   Rely on costly funding for temporary agency staff – While this had been used to manage peak periods, it is an inefficient long-term approach, increases costs, and does not support the development of in-house expertise or service continuity.