There were no declarations of interest expressed by members in accordance with the code of conduct.

There were no items of Chair’s urgent business.

The task and finish group convened over three days to consider written and verbal evidence in respect of the Social Fund Replacement proposals submitted in response to the Government’s package of welfare reform.  Members focused their review on the eight principles which had been identified as essential to support the development on an equitable welfare assistance scheme.  As part of this process the task and finish group heard concerns from voluntary organisations on the effect that cuts and legislative changes would have on their ability to deliver services.

The full draft report containing the findings, conclusions and recommendations arising from this task and finish group are attached as an appendix to these minutes. 

This report will be considered by the Customers and Communities Overview and Scrutiny Panel at its meeting on 7 November 2012.

To consider passing a resolution under Section 100A(4) of the Local Government Act 1972 to exclude the press and public from the meeting for the following item(s) of business on the grounds that it (they) involve(s) the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in paragraph(s) 3of Part 1 of Schedule 12A of the Act, as amended by the Freedom of Information Act 2000.

Whilst parts of the information contained within the documentation presented to

Members for their consideration as part of this review were confidential, it was not necessary to move to Part II during their discussions.

The panel will consider the consultation responses received in respect of the soft market test.

Members noted the schedule submitted outlining the results of the soft market test.