The Cabinet of Merton Council met on Tuesday 17 September 2024, approving a new strategy to support those seeking sanctuary in the borough and a pilot job brokerage service. The meeting also addressed the council's financial position, with a significant adverse variance projected for the current financial year.

Borough of Sanctuary Strategy and Action Plan

Cabinet approved the Borough of Sanctuary Strategy and Action Plan 2024-2028, which outlines Merton Council's commitment to becoming a recognised Borough of Sanctuary. This strategy, developed in collaboration with local organisations and individuals with lived experience, aims to foster a welcoming environment for refugees and asylum seekers. The council will use this document in its application to City of Sanctuary UK for a Sanctuary Award. The strategy aligns with Merton's Council Plan priorities, particularly Nurturing Civic Pride, by promoting inclusivity, diversity, and community belonging. The plan details a range of activities over the next four years, focusing on learning, embedding welcome and inclusion, and sharing the positive contributions of sanctuary seekers.

Proposal to Pilot Employ Merton

A pilot job brokerage and finding service, named 'Employ Merton', was approved by Cabinet. This 1-year pilot aims to build financial resilience and develop a local, skilled workforce. A budget of £500,000 has been allocated from the Strategic Priorities Reserve to enable the delivery of this service.

Financial Monitoring Report

The Cabinet reviewed the financial position for period 4 (July), noting a projected net adverse variance of £16.928 million. This variance is attributed to significant inflationary cost increases and a surge in demand for services in Adult Social Care, Children's Social Care, and the provision of temporary accommodation. Cabinet approved proposed adjustments to the programme, including the reprofiling of funds for Parks Investment – Playground Priority Upgrade Programme and an increase for Borough Regeneration – Schools Living Walls due to inflation. A revenue budget virement was approved in Adult Social Care to transfer budget from Meadowsweet to Learning Disabilities placements following the closure of Meadowsweet. Additionally, Cabinet approved the draw down of funds from reserves to support Early Years Family Hubs, Early Years Supporting Families, Free School Meals Grant, and the Innovation & Change directorate.

Treasury Management Strategy Annual Review

Cabinet noted the update on Merton's treasury management activities for 2023-24. The report indicated that treasury funds were well managed, with actions taken aligning with CIPFA regulations. Investments generated approximately £8 million more than budgeted, contributing positively to the revenue position.

Budget 2025/26 and Medium Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) 2025-29

The Cabinet received an update on the budget process for the upcoming financial year and the MTFS for the next four years. They agreed to the timetable for the Financial Management cycle, which includes the revenue budget for 2025/26 and the Capital Programme for 2025-29. Revenue raising and savings proposals will be presented to Cabinet in the following month.

Better Care Fund (BCF) - Section 75 Agreement

Cabinet agreed to enter into a Section 75 legal agreement with the South West London Integrated Care Board (ICB) to pool and receive Better Care Fund monies for the current financial year. Authority was delegated to the Executive Director for Adult Social Care, Integrated Care and Public Health, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Health & Social Care, to negotiate and finalise the terms of the agreement. This agreement is a national planning requirement for the BCF.

Retrofit Task Group Recommendations

Cabinet considered the report and recommendations from the scrutiny review of retrofitting in Merton. A response to these recommendations will be provided in due course.