Decision details

RECOMMENDED:   1)       That the West Norfolk Disability Forum be disbanded.

RESOLVED:1)       That the Leader appoint a Disabilities Champion in due course and terms of reference for the role be prepared.

2)       That the Environment and Community Panel is requesting the opportunity to look at the Borough Council’s Equality Policy which is due for review be noted.

3)       That the Environment and Community Panel will request an update on the Equalities Policy on an annual basis be noted.

4)       That ways to promote Equality on the Corporate Agenda be investigated.

5)       That a page be created on the website to promote the Disabilities Champion.  An e-form to be created so that members of the public can report issues direct to the Champion.

6)       That access to the Disability Awareness e-learning package currently available for staff be extended to Elected Members, funded from the Member Development budget.

7)       That the Disabilities Champion be encouraged to hold open forums with members of the public as required.

8)       The Disabilities Champion to report to the Environment and Community Panel on an annual basis.

9)       That the Opportunity Awards and other events hosted by the Forum be incorporated into other events already organised by the Borough Council.

Reason for Decision

To address concerns from Members of the West Norfolk Disability Forum that the Forum is not productive in its current format and no longer delivered its objectives as set out in its Constitution.  The Environment and Community Panel feel that the recommendations will result in an improvement in service.

The role is changed from the Disabilities and Equalities Champion to Disabilities Champion as it was felt that the equalities element was a different subject matter.