Issue - decisions

The Cabinet Member was asked to:

                i.    Agree that the Council entered into a joint agreement with Central London Forward, which would enable the City Council to support the design and delivery of the new Work and Health Programme.

              ii.    Agree to delegate sign off of the joint agreement through a Memorandum of Understanding to the Chief Executive.

             iii.    Note key issues relating to this Memorandum of Understanding, the new Work and Health Programme and the local impact set out at section 5. 

Reasonsfor Decision

1.         The Work and Health Programme was part of ambitious devolution which Westminster and Central London Forward had long championed.  The City Council’s on-going involvement would demonstrate our commitment to making devolution work and to supporting better employment outcomes for local residents aligning to City for All.

2.            A Memorandum of Understanding sought confirmation of the Council’s commitment to support delivery of the new Work and Health Programme. Day-to-day and contract management of the new provision will be led by Central London Forward.

3.            There were potential risks associated with delivering and managing employment programmes, however, the model designed by the boroughs with expert input overcomes constraints of the previous Work Programme. 

4.            Local authorities would be able to support outcomes for residents by harnessing their convening powers with local employers that can offer employment opportunities.  Services to help residents prior to work including adults skills courses, health provision and childcare support could also be effectively co-ordinated by local authorities to help drive better performance and outcomes.