Agenda item - Quarter 3 Performance Report

(copy attached).

34.1    The Head of Income Involvement & Improvement introduced the report and explained that it was a brief report due to the despatch times of the meeting agenda. It was agreed that the residents would be informed when the full report was available on the website and hardcopies could be sent to residents who did not have internet access.

34.2    It was highlighted to the Panel that the problem with transferring calls in Customers Services, which had been previously noted by the Area Housing Panel, had not been resolved; however, would be by February 2016.

34.3    In response to Ann Tizzard, it was confirmed that the full report would state current arrears; however, it would not specify whether they were long term or short term.

34.4    The Head of Income Involvement & Improvement confirmed to Pat Weller that there would be measures in place to help tenants that would be affected by universal credit. It was added that Officers had received training from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). The Head of Tenancy Services noted that funding had been received from the DWP to upskill and prepare unemployed individuals for work.

34.5    In response to Chief Blackbear, it was explained that individuals that may struggle, for example addicts, individuals with mental health issues and domestic violence victims, would be either exempt from universal credit or receive additional support. This decision would be made by the DWP. In response to the Chair, it was clarified that the individual would have to give consent for their information being shared with the DWP; however, would not need to inform tenants who are in long term arrears.

34.6    In response to Councillor Barnett it was explained that residents have feedback that there is a lack of correspondence with tenants who report tenancy fraud. The Head of Tenancy Services encouraged residents to directly contact either herself, Ododo Dafe, the Head of Income Involvement & Improvement, or Tracy John, Assistant Director of Housing for an update.

34.7    In response to Councillor Peltzer Dunn the Head of Tenancy Services agreed to check that the full report would state the outcomes of the antisocial behaviour cases. It was explained that the 100% success rate for closed Tenancy Sustainment Officer cases, stated in the report, meant that they did not lose their tenancy.

34.8    The Head of Tenancy Services confirmed to Ann Tizzard that tenancy check letters were sent out to the resident and arrangements would be made, as tenants felt it was intrusive not to have notice. It was added that notice is not given for tenancy fraud checks.

34.9    RESOLVED – That the Panel agreed to note the report.