(Report of Interim Chief Executive)
Cabinet considered a number of options in respect of future funding arrangements for key Voluntary and Community Sector Groups.
It was noted that in relation to offering lower amounts set over a longer period (detailed in Option 4), that organisations had been contacted to establish what service impacts could arise if this option was progressed.
Due regard was given to the responses received from the organisations (summarised in paragraph 1.2.3), the opportunity for voluntary and community sector groups to apply for UKSPF Community Development Grant funding from 1 March 2024 and the valuable work provided by these groups to support residents throughout the Borough.
Particular reference was made to the larger grant of £95,000 offered to CANWK which had remained static for several years. Despite the ongoing cost of living crisis meaning that their services were in high demand, it was prudent for the Borough Council to consider all value for money options. On the grounds that CANWK could apply for the UKSPF Community Development Grant, Cabinet supported a £5,000 reduction in funding with the security of a four-year Service Level Agreement.
RESOLVED: That
(1) grant funding for Imago, Involve, Mediation Schemes and Age UK Sevenoaks and Tonbridge be reduced as detailed in Option 4 and set for a period of 4 years to provide additional stability;
(2) a £5,000 reduction in grant funding be applied for CANWK with the security of a four-year Service Level Agreement; and
(3) prior to the next review of the Service Level Agreements for Voluntary Sector grant funding in April 2028, that consideration be given to which organisations, if any, would be eligible.