The Scrutiny Commission of Hinckley and Bosworth Council met on Thursday 7 May 2026, endorsing several key policies and plans. The commission approved updates on the Voluntary and Community Sector Commissioning, a new Domestic Abuse and Violence Against Women and Girls policy, and the Council Housing Service HRA Estates Services policy. They also endorsed the Right to Buy policy and made recommendations regarding the Community Governance Review for Hinckley.

Voluntary and Community Sector Commissioning Update

The commission received an update on the achievements of the borough's Voluntary and Community Sector (VCS) partnership arrangements and the outcomes of the VCS commissioning programme for April 2024 to March 2025. A representative from the Hinckley Area Food Bank attended to highlight the significant impact of grant funding, particularly in addressing digital poverty among vulnerable clients. The commission endorsed the positive impact and contributions of the VCS, acknowledging the vital role of its volunteers. The report, available in the Public reports pack, detailed how £67,933 was awarded to 49 projects benefiting over 12,400 residents. Additionally, £9,885 was distributed for VE Day anniversary commemorations, and the Warm Welcome project supported nearly 4,000 households with meals and advice, funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. The VCS partnership has also strengthened its reach, with all 24 wards now represented and 249 community groups signed up.

Domestic Abuse and Violence Against Women and Girls Policy and Procedure

The commission endorsed a new Domestic Abuse and Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) policy and procedure, designed to provide a clear, consistent, and legally compliant framework for the council's response to disclosures of domestic abuse from residents and tenants. Jodine Legg, who presented the report, emphasised that the policy applies to all residents, regardless of gender, and adopts a trauma-informed, person-centred approach. Councillor Richard Allen moved the recommendation for endorsement, highlighting the terrifying statistics surrounding domestic abuse. The policy ensures consistent responses, risk assessment, and partnership working with agencies such as the police and MARAC¹. Preventative work in schools, reaching 5,999 young people in the previous year, was also noted. The commission suggested that delegation for minor amendments be included in future reports to the Executive. The policy is detailed in the Public reports pack.

Council Housing Service HRA Estates Services Policy

The commission endorsed the adoption of the HRA Estates Services policy, which consolidates how estate-based services are delivered and managed across the council's housing stock. Madeline Shellard presented the policy, explaining it clarifies standards for communal cleaning, grounds maintenance, shared spaces, and estate-related health and safety. Councillor Dr. Richard Webber-Jones moved the endorsement, with Councillor Michael Crooks seconding. Members welcomed the policy's clarity on responsibilities for both the council and tenants, and praised the responsiveness of officers to reported issues. The policy aims to ensure estates are clean, safe, and well-maintained, supporting compliance with the Social Housing (Regulation) Act and Consumer Standards.

Right to Buy Policy

The commission endorsed the council's Right to Buy policy, which sets out how the council administers the statutory scheme. Madeline Shellard explained that the policy ensures consistency, transparency, and legal compliance, and strengthens safeguards against fraud. Members expressed concern about the loss of housing stock, noting that approximately 24 properties per year are lost through Right to Buy, a figure that had increased to 40 following the announcement of the cost cap. Councillor RG Allen moved the endorsement, seconded by Councillor C Harris. The policy details statutory duties, eligibility criteria, discount calculations, property exemptions, and post-sale conditions, including the repayment of discount if the property is sold within five years.

Community Governance Review, Hinckley - Final Recommendations

The commission endorsed recommendations for the creation of a new town council for the unparished area of Hinckley. Julie Kenny presented the final recommendations of the Community Governance Review Working Group, which proposed the establishment of Hinckley Town Council with 20 councillors across four wards: Castle, Clarendon, De Montfort, and Trinity. The first elections are planned for May 2027. Councillor Dr. Richard Webber-Jones moved the endorsement, seconded by Councillor A Pendlebury. Discussion included concerns about the number of councillors and the appropriateness of ward names, with members noting that the working group had considered these points at length. The potential transfer of assets and services to the new town council will be addressed in a separate report. The commission also noted that earmarked reserves from the Hinckley Area Committee would be transferred to the new council.

Overview & Scrutiny Statutory Guidance - Action Plan

The commission considered a draft action plan arising from a self-assessment against the overview and scrutiny statutory guidance. It was noted that the chair and vice-chairs would add further detail to the plan before it is brought back for review. The plan aims to enhance the effectiveness of the overview and scrutiny function.

Minutes of Finance & Performance Scrutiny

The minutes of the Finance & Performance Scrutiny Committee meeting held on 16 March 2026 were noted. Councillor MJ Surtees, Chair of the Finance & Performance Scrutiny Committee, reported on discussions regarding Environmental Health services, performance and risk management, business rates, sundry debts, and treasury management.