Outcome Agreement between the Vale of Glamorgan Council ... Report… · Outcome Agreement...

Outcome Agreement 2010-2013

Outcome Agreement between the Vale of Glamorgan Council and the Welsh Assembly Government

Strategic Themes Selected Outcome Areas Lead Page

1. Improved quality and length of life, with fairer outcomes for all

Healthier sustainable communities Phil Evans/Dave Knevett

8

2. Good social care allows people a better quality of life

People are protected from harm and abuse Rachel Evans 12

3. A strong and prosperous economy helps reduce poverty

Businesses in the local economy are supported to thrive

Rob Thomas 15

4. Children and young people grow up as active citizens and achieve the highest possible standards of well-being

Children and young people are listened to, treated with respect and have their race and cultural identity recognised

Mark Davies 19

5. People have the education and skills to live prosperous, fulfilled lives

Learning opportunities are of high quality Jennifer Hill 23

6. Communities are vibrant and safe, with access to good housing and sustainable transport

Improved quality of existing housing stock Simon Davies/Alun Billinghurst

27

7. Wales is an energy efficient, low carbon and low waste society

Waste and natural resource efficiency Miles Punter/David Powell

29

8. The environment is protected and sustainable

Enhancing the quality and enjoyment of the natural environment

Rob Thomas 33

9. Our language, culture and heritage thrives i.

Improved protection and condition of the historical environment

Rob Thomas 37

10. Public services are efficient and provide value for money

More efficient and effective procurement

Alan Jenkins 40

Monitoring arrangements


Overview Report 2013

1. Healthier sustainable communities Fully completed, with one minor exception (explanation below). Parkwood Community Leisure is now managing the Council’s leisure centres. Significant cost savings have been achieved and several improvements have already been made to the leisure centres including refurbishment of fitness facilities at Barry, Llantwit Major and Penarth Leisure Centres, increased number of exercise classes, new cafe facilities at two sites and new year promotions for memberships. All targets were achieved for the development of extra-curricular sports activities in the Sept 2011 – Aug 2012 school period. 53% of young people aged 12–16 participated in 5x60 activity. The Welsh Healthy Options award has been implemented in local restaurants, and we await the announcement of the first award. Although attendance at Cowbridge and Colcot Leisure Centres didn’t meet the expected targets, attendance at Barry and Llantwit Major exceeded the agreed target by tens of thousands. The number of visits to leisure centres per 1,000 population (7,048) also outstripped the target of 7,000. The availability of disability sport (1406 new participatory opportunities) also far exceeded its target (500).

2. People are protected from harm and abuse Fully completed, with one minor exception (explanation below). Consultation with looked after children has commenced, using semi-structured interviews. The LSCB has commenced a work-stream looking at methods for involving young people. The first consultation has been completed. A report has been prepared and presented to the AAPC. An annual consultation has been timetabled into the SS consultation framework. 99% of referrals during the year on which a decision was made within one working day. 89% of initial assessments completed within 7 working days. Although the average time taken to complete initial assessments that took longer than 7 working days to complete rose to 13.8 (from 11) days, this was as a result of 5 cases where parents refused to engage. 55 POVA case files were audited, and 100% of vulnerable adults who were satisfied or very satisfied with the protection service they received.


3. Businesses in the local economy are supported to thrive Many targets exceeded, with 3 missed targets due to economic downturn. Three local builders were employed to deliver five phases of the face-lifting scheme in the renewal area. One company based in Barry has been awarded two contracts worth £600,000, a second company based in Cardiff awarded two contracts worth £500,000 and a third company in Taff’s Well has been awarded a contract of £300,000. All businesses are within 16 miles of the renewal area. Examples of support for rural businesses include the www.perfectpitchcamping.co.uk project which supported landowners to establish temporary campsites along the heritage coast during the summer of 2012 (the year of the Eisteddfod in Llandow). An estimated £60,000 of spend was recorded in the Vale economy during this 28 day period. Businesses are partners in the Iolo Morgannwg trail, which encourages walkers to spend in the local areas. Green-it grants have been issued to many community facilities following CRC funded energy audits. This helps these enterprises to reduce running costs and assist with their financial and environmental sustainability. The target (8%) for the overall average vacancy rate for businesses was exceeded (6.5%); vacancies fell substantially in all areas, with the exception of Broad Street/High Street. Footfall has increased considerably in Barry and Llantwit Major but fell in Cowbridge and Penarth. National trends in town centres show a worsening position and the prolonged downturn is hitting town centres and the retail sector particularly hard. A new Town Centres Framework has been developed, and consultation has commenced on it, prior to consideration for adoption.

Ten projects were awarded grants in support of maintaining, restoring or upgrading the rural heritage. 4. Children and young people are listened to, treated with respect and have their race and cultural identity recognised Fully completed. All schools were offered the opportunity of training and/or individual support in understanding and implementing the Participation Standards. All schools have received information of the standards and 80% have undertaken some form of awareness or training on the standards. A dedicated social worker post was created in to supporting vulnerable children young people in Special Schools between phases. Education and Children and Family Services continue to work together on the possibility of co-location of the disability team within the Penarth campus to improve integrated service delivery. The Penarth Learning Community is schedule to open on October 2014 as originally planned. The co-location of Health, Social Care and Education key officer has been allowed for in the design of facilities. All primary, junior, special and secondary school offer a counselling service, with 384 children and young people accessing the service. There was 100% satisfaction with the service, and with the appointment and referral arrangements.


5. Learning opportunities are of high quality Fully completed. Targets set for schools in the Foundation Phase, Key Stage 2 and 3 have resulted in improvements in outcomes as recorded in the June 2013 school returns (comparative figures will be available in August 2013). Universal support has been provided for all schools via the +1 Maths Programme and targeted support for identified schools. Outcomes in English and Maths have improved as a result. All schools have received the School Data Pack from the JES. This contained performance information at whole school, subject and individual pupil level. This data was used to set challenging targets. Outreach services have been established in all three special schools in the Vale and provide support assessment and training for mainstream staff in order to build the capacity of mainstream schools to meet the needs of pupils with AEN. Estyn has judged the quality of leadership, provision and achievement as ‘good’ in 86% of Vale schools. Comparative data for 2013 won’t be available until August. However, in the last academic year, achievement has improved The Vale is consistently above the Welsh average at the Foundation phase. At KS2, the Vale is above the Welsh average in most subjects, although there were minor dips in Welsh in 2011 and science in 2012 (where performance was Welsh average). The core subject indicator was well above the Welsh average in 2012, and has increased again in 2013.

At KS3, there have been major year-on-year improvements in the Vale since 2012 (minimum of 5 points, maximum of 9 across the core subjects). . 6. Improved quality of existing housing stock Fully completed. WHQS improvement work has been carried out at 13% of our social housing stock, and 548 properties have been improved. Three newsletters have been circulated during the year, with 26 stakeholder events taking place to keep tenants informed. 71 private rented properties have been improved, with 14 being brought back into use from a very poor state. 7. Waste and natural resource efficiency Targets exceeded overall.. Waste recycling increased to 54% (target 52%) including dry recyclables 33% (target 29%), far exceeding its targets. This has been achieved following a period of substantial educational and awareness campaigns over the year. The exception was composted/biologically treated waste which didn’t meet its target of 23% (21% achieved) because: • The extremely wet in 2012 reduced the amount of green

garden waste collected over previous quarters; • The Welsh Government's changes in the calculation formula in

2012/13 impacted on the percentage ratio between recycling and composting. If we had used last years calculation method, the composing result would have been 22.29%, much closer to the target.

The percentage result for recycling exceeds the 2012/13 target of 29% by an additional 4%. The failure to reach the composting


target as a result of over performing in respect to the dry recycling target (one part of the whole adversely impacting on the others pro rata). Overall, targets for recycling have been exceeded, with the percentage of waste sent to landfill reducing. Prosiect Gwyrdd continues to achieve its target deadlines, with a preferred bidder (Viridor Ltd) chosen. The procurement process is in the ‘fine tuning’ stage and on track for contract singing in July/August 2013 and contact commencement in April 2016. The treatment technology has been confirmed as EfW and the location of the facility to be Trident Park, Cardiff. We have reduced our carbon emissions by 11% over last year; this has been assisted by transferring leisure centres to Parkwood Leisure and by leasing Dyffryn Gardens to the National Trust, who are now responsible for any emissions from these buildings. We have reduced our carbon emissions by 11% over last year, assisted by transferring leisure centres to Parkwood Leisure and by leasing Dyffryn Gardens to the National Trust, who are now responsible for emissions from these buildings. 13 energy saving projects have been implemented. 8. Enhancing the quality and enjoyment of the natural environment Fully completed, with one exception due to unforeseen change in plans. Protected species information is being gathered via planning application process. In addition, Surveys of key plants and butterflies have been completed at The Heritage Coast. Evidence shows that High Brown Fritillary butterflies have established a new presence on newly managed land and increased the presence of important plant species found. Adder monitoring taking place this year at Porthkerry Country Park.

Rights of way have been enhanced; 575 maintenance issues have been resolved since 1 April 2012. Work with Valeways has taken place via a support gtrant of £20K to re-establish a volunteer working group and make further improvements as identified in the ROWIP/RDP. Valeways also led a local walking festival. The quality of Rights of Way and signposting has increased considerably over the year. Both country parks and the Glamorgan Heritage Coast Project are providing formal educational packages and experiences which have been taken up by schools: • Interactive link now established between Schoolnet and

Country Parks internet content. • Schools have been directly involved in designing educational

content for products being offered. Schools Special Needs Literacy Coordinator involved in designing a literacy trail at Cosmeston Lakes Country Park.

• Interpretation materials developed. • New schools liaison plan developed by the Ecology Service for

2013. This will enhance the current ‘Awards for Wildlife’ project which has a schools category.

• 4 teacher training sessions held at Porthkerry during the last year, promoting different aspects of the Forest School initiative. These have been held in partnership with the Forestry Commission, and the Forest Education Initiative Cluster groups for the Vale of Glamorgan schools.

A new biodiversity learning tool has been designed and implemented, ensuring that officers and elected members are aware of their duties and responsibilities. No LDP is in place as yet; the current administration pledged to scrap the LDP if elected, and therefore the LDP is going through a further process of consultation and revision.


9. Improved protection and condition of the historical environment Fully completed with one exception due to the protracted handover of Dyfffryn Gardens to the National Trust. Dyffryn House and Gardens have been leased to The National Trust from 1st January 2013 on a 50 year renewable lease with a membership-based model and the national marketing resources of the NT. The NT suggest an expected increase of visitor numbers to 100,000 in 5 to 10 years. After securing HLF and Cadw grants, renovation of the ground floor and first floor principle rooms of Dyffryn house is complete. This part of the house has been restored to its former Edwardian splendour and is open to visitors and available for events. Unfortunately visitor numbers dropped substantially during the year. It is thought this resulted in part from the extended period of transfer to the National Trust, as season ticket holders in particular showed a drop in attendance. These visitors would have been anticipating free entry with NT membership, and these individuals represent a large proportion of visitors. The inclement weather throughout the summer of 2012 is also a likely contributor. However, the transfer to NT was successful and will undoubtedly result in a very significant increase. The original Coastal Access programme has progressed well and physical completion of improvements was achieved by March 2013. Improvements this year included the Sully footpath, 3 West Farm Ogmore and Llantwit Major Beach. Considerable new dedicated Wales Coast Path Signage is being installed, and new information panels installed in a number of locations.

10. More efficient and effective procurement Fully completed with all targets met. A procurement portal has been launched to assist service departments in procuring through agreed contracts. The council is a member of the newly formed National Procurement Service. The roll-out of i-procurement was completed in March 2013. This will ensure that service departments are procuring through approved contractors and will lead to more efficient procurement and more rapid payment of invoices. SMEs are being paid more quickly, all faster payment of all invoices has been achieved.


Sources of Evidence Used in the Agreement*

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1. Improved quality and length of life, with fairer outcomes for all √ √

√ √

2. Good social care allows people a better quality of life √

√

3. A strong and prosperous economy helps reduce poverty √

√ √


√ √ √

√

5. People have the education and skills to live prosperous, fulfilled lives √

√ √ √

6. Communities are vibrant and safe, with access to good housing and sustainable transport √

√ √ √

7. Building an effective response to climate change √ √ √

√ √ 8. The environment is protected and sustainable √

9. Our language, culture and heritage thrives √ √

√ √ 10.Public services are efficient and provide value for money √


1. Improved quality and length of life, with fairer outcomes for all

Healthier sustainable communities

Broad objectives: what we are trying to achieve A. To encourage healthy lifestyles for children and young people. This is a corporate priority for the Council as outlined in the Council’s Corporate Plan. Due to increasing levels of childhood obesity, we need to increase childhood activity and participation in physical activity.

B. To encourage healthy lifestyles in adults in order to assist in keeping older adults and those from targeted groups healthier and independent for longer and to improve their quality of life.

Current Strengths Various initiatives to encourage young people to be active, including 5X60 schemes and sports development. Excellent sports pitches and parks. Community focused schools – partnerships with schools so that schools and their sports facilities are being used out of curricular times

for sports and physical activity. Areas for Improvement 1. Improve management and infrastructure, particularly the fabric of the buildings and value for money. 2. Number of sporting opportunities available for hard-to-reach groups – women/girls, disabled people, young people, older people. Areas of collaboration: Sports Council Private sector Ewenny Community Council Cardiff and Vale University Health Board Public Health Wales

Improvement actions Our planned actions each aim to address the broad objectives above and one or more of the specific areas of improvement.


Objective

Actions

Result/benefit

Areas for improvement

Deadline Progress update

A/B Implement arrangements for the future management of leisure centres with the private (leisure commercial operators) or third sector (leisure trusts)

More efficient management of leisure centres; improved facilities and cost reductions

1 March 2013

Parkwood Community Leisure is now managing the Council’s leisure centres (as of 1/8/12). Significant cost savings have been achieved and several improvements have already been made to the leisure centres including refurbishment of fitness facilities at Barry, Llantwit Major and Penarth Leisure Centres, increased number of exercise classes, new cafe facilities at two sites and new year promotions for memberships.

A Develop extra-curricular sport for 12-16 year olds through the implementation of 5X60 scheme in secondary schools.*

Improved health and physical fitness; reduced obesity

2 March 2013

All targets were achieved for the Sept 2011 – Aug 2012 school period. 53% of young people aged 12–16 participated in 5x60 activity. An end of year report is available for the academic year. The 5x60 Officers are now implementing the programme for the Sept 2012 – Aug 2013 school period. A new officer commenced work in May and working in the Penarth 5x60 Cluster. This cluster has been without an officer since October


which has affected participation figures in that area. This academic year there is a focus on increasing sustained participation rates. The participation figures for the past two terms are as follows: 31% of 12 -16 year olds participating in 5x60 on at least one occasion. 22,568 total participations 9466 female participations There has been a focus on encouraging secondary schools to complete the School Sport Survey. If enough schools complete, the Vale will qualify for a Valewide report which provides valuable data in relation to overall participation rates for secondary pupils including community based provision.

B Implement the Welsh Healthy Options award in local restaurants through the Environmental Health Service

Improved health and physical fitness; reduced obesity

2 March 2013

Funding has been secured, the lead officer identified and training undertaken. Inspections are being conducted and are waiting for the first award to be announced.

*Dependent on funding continuing after March 2011


Measures and targets Target 2012/13

Performance March 2013

A/B Number of visits to local authority sports and leisure centres during the year where the visitor will be participating in physical activity, per 1,000 population

7,000 7,048

Number of attendances at leisure centres a) Barry Leisure b) Penarth Leisure Centre c) Cowbridge Leisure Centre d) Llantwit Major Leisure Centre e) Holm View f) Colcot

a) 326,894 b) 323,234 c) 105,855 d) 45,628 e) 36,328 f) 39,067

a) 364,035 b) 328,585 c) 66,609 d) 72,879 e) 48,133 f) 12,564

A/B New participatory opportunities for disabled people 500 1406 A/B Number of competitions delivered with participation by disabled people 5 5 A Percentage of children/young people taking part in the 5X60 scheme 48% 53% (Sept

2011 – Aug 2012)

B Number of referrals to the National Exercise Referral Scheme. 1,455 1881


2. Good social care allows people a better quality of life

People are protected from harm and abuse

Broad objectives: what we are trying to achieve A. To improve systems and practices for safeguarding children, both in terms of protection and preventing harm from taking place.

B. To improve systems and practices to safeguard vulnerable adults

Both of these issues are central to the work of the Council and form part of our core business. A recent case management enquiry took place looking at the protection and prevention arrangements across both children and adult services and highlighted the need to strengthen our arrangements and partnership working. These services are now placed together so that learning can take place across both services – this is new for the Council and has highlighted to need to develop accountability. Current Strengths Strong partnership arrangements within Local Safeguarding Children Board Good arrangements for POVA

Areas for Improvement A 1. Stronger links between adult and child’s safeguarding 2. Consistency in outcome-based planning for children including those on the CPR 3. Better outcomes for children receiving child protection service B 4. Introduction of a standardised risk assessment tool 5. Systems for action planning and reviews, linked to an effective quality assurance process 6. Development and adoption of a Case Conference model in relevant cases 7. Members of the AAPC taking active and increased ownership in delivering business and work plans 8. Development of improved POVA management information systems Areas of collaboration (partners in Local Safeguarding Children Board and the Area Adult Protection Committee): Police Cardiff and Vale University Local Health Board


Abertawe and Bro Morgannwg Local Health Board Cafcass Probation Children and Young People Partnership NSPCC National Public Health Service Hebron Hall Christian Centre Velindre NHS Trust CSSIW South Wales Adult Protection Forum Vale Centre for Voluntary Service Age Concern Crown Prosecution Service

Improvement actions Our planned actions each aim to address the broad objectives above and one or more of the specific areas of improvement. Objective Actions

Result/benefit Areas for improvement


A Survey annually the views of children involved in the child protection process and report this back to the LSCB.

The LSCB can demonstrate improvements to the outcomes for children receiving child protection services.

3 December 2013

Consultation is focusing on children over 8 years of age. Consultation with the identified sample of children has commenced using semi structured interviews. An annual consultation has been timetabled into the SS consultation framework. Additionally the LSCB has commenced a workstream looking at methods for involving young people.

B Survey annually the views of vulnerable adults involved in the POVA process and report this

The AAPC can demonstrate improvements to the

8 December 2013

The first consultation has been completed. A report has been prepared and presented to the


back to the AAPC. outcomes for adults receiving POVA services.

AAPC. An annual consultation has been timetabled into the SS consultation framework.

*Summary results of the audit, recommendations and intentions to be shared with WAG. Measures Target

2012/13 Performance March 2013

A The percentage of referrals during the year on which a decision was made within one working day

95% 99.3%

A The percentage of initial assessments completed within 7 working days

80% 89.13%

A The average time taken to complete initial assessments that took longer than 7 working days to complete.

11 days 13.8 Most initial assessments are completed well within the timescale. The average number of days was increased by 5 cases, due to the non- engagement of the parents

B Number of POVA case files audits undertaken. 8 53 B The percentage of vulnerable adults who were satisfied or very

satisfied with the protection service they received To be set following baseline

100%


3. A strong and prosperous economy helps reduce poverty

Businesses in the local economy are supported to thrive

Broad objectives: what we are trying to achieve A. To regenerate the Barry area, in order to improve economic growth in the town.

B. To regenerate rural communities in the Vale to support their continued viability and sustainability.

Current Strengths Renewal area in Castleland declared; good track record from the Penarth Renewal area. Strong rural partnership, with funding available. Declaration of Barry as a Regeneration Area.

Areas for Improvement 1. Barry area needs a defined strategy with predictable funding and improved partnership working. 2. Tourism – Barry Island and rural Vale. Areas of collaboration: Rural Regeneration Partnership (members include local large and small businesses, Community Councils and representatives, Business

Support organisations, Voluntary Sector, Farming representatives. Regeneration Partnership (members include the Environment Agency, CCW, Capital Region Tourism, Vale Centre for Voluntary

Services, Newydd Housing, Job Centre Plus, Cardiff International Airport. SRA Board (members include Barry College, Vale Centre for Voluntary Services, Pride in Barry, Newydd Housing Association



Objective Actions



A Implement the Castleland Renewal area

Encourage local jobs and businesses in works associated with the renewal area.

1 March 2013

3 local builders employed to deliver 5 phases of the facelifting scheme. One company based in Barry has been awarded 2 contracts worth £600,000, a second company based in Cardiff awarded two contracts worth £500,000 and a third company in Taff’s Well has been awarded a contract of £300,000. All businesses are within 16 miles of the Renewal Area.

B Enable businesses in the rural Vale to develop and/or market innovative products/services through comprehensive support and investment with the Rural Regeneration Partnership. We will work with local Communities and Groups to help grow existing events, and where appropriate create new ones. This will involve advice, assistance and provision of equipment.

Supporting local businesses in the local economy to thrive in tourism, green technologies and food.

2 December 2012

Examples include the www.perfectpitchcamping.co.uk project which supported landowners to establish temporary campsites along the heritage coast during the summer of 2012. An estimated £60,000 of spend was recorded in the Vale economy during this 28 day period. Businesses are partners in the Iolo Morgannwg trail, which encourages walkers to spend in the local areas. Green-it grants have been issued to many community facilities following CRC funded energy audits. This helps these enterprises to reduce running


costs and assist with their financial and environmental sustainability.

Measures Target

2012/13 Expected performance March 2013

A Average percentage vacancy rate for retail units in main Vale shopping centres

8% 6.5%

Percentage vacancy rate for retail units in; a) Upper Holton Road, Barry b) Barry Town Centre c) Cowbridge d) Windsor Road, Penarth e) Broad Street/High Street, Barry f) Llantwit Major

a) 16% b) 12% c) 5% d) 4.5% e) 7% f) 4%

a) 13.9% b) 10% c) 2% d) 2.5% e) 11.1% f) 2.6%

Pedestrian footfall in the town centre (recorded as a peak quarter hour) a) Barry b) Cowbridge c) Penarth d) Llantwit Major

a) 500 b) 340 c) 400 d) 130

a) 566 b) 266 c) 296 d) 195

Number of schemes provided in the Holton Road/Castleland Renewal Area (shop front improvements, events, environmental improvements, public realm works)

5** 5

B Number of projects in support of maintaining, restoring or upgrading the rural heritage financially supported.

5 3 This figure represents those who have actually received money; a further 7


have had funding offers but have not yet drawn down the funding.

Number of groups advised or assisted to develop projects relating to village renewal and development.

5 20

Number of farming household members financially supported to diversify into non-agricultural activities.

5 15

Number of farming household members advised or assisted to diversify into non-agricultural activities.

10 22



Children and young people are listened to, treated with respect and have their race and cultural identity recognised

Broad objectives: what we are trying to achieve A. To increase participation in decision-making among children and young people

B. To support children and young people through the development of an advocacy service so that their voices are heard.

C. To provide a counselling service for young people at secondary phase in order to improve their well-being.

D. To support vulnerable children and young people on transition in order to improve their well-being and life chances.

Current Strengths Strong Children and Young People’s Partnership Local Democracy Week activities Secondary School councils Youth service participation activities

Areas for Improvement 1. Increase participation 2. Lack of advocacy service 3. Limited counselling service 4. Support for transitions need developing Areas of collaboration: VIBE, Penarth Youth Centre, Vale People First (third sector organisations) Children and Young People’s Partnership (CYPP) Cardiff and Vale University Health Board Barnardos

Improvement actions


Our planned actions each aim to address the broad objectives above and one or more of the specific areas of improvement. Objective Actions



A Implement National Standards of CYP Participation in schools with CYPP

Children and young people more engaged in school life and have their ideas and concerns listened to

1 March 2013

100% of Vale schools offered the opportunity of training and/or individual support in understanding and implementing the Participation Standards. All schools have received information of the standards and 80% have undertaken some form of awareness or training on the standards.

D Develop joint working between Education, Health and Children's Services to support children and young people in Special Schools moving between phases

Develop a seamless approach to supporting vulnerable children young people in Special Schools between phases

4 March 2013

Transitions arrangements have been strengthened; a Transition Review Implementation Group (TRIG) was established, referred to as the ‘virtual transitions service’ on the basis of the close working relationship across Adults, Health and Children’s Services. The effectiveness of these arrangements has been reviewed, and conclusions reported to Scrutiny. It was recommended that the current arrangements were working well and there was


no need to turn the virtual team working into a real team that was co-located. It was however recognised that a dedicated social worker post was needed to continue this work and this was implemented in 2012.

Work towards the co-location of key officers to establish a dedicated Transitions Service

Seamless approach to supporting vulnerable individuals (including LAC) moving between phases

4 Sept 2013 dependent on new school (Penarth)

Education and Children and Family Services continue to work together on the possibility of co-location of the disability team within the Penarth campus to improve integrated service delivery. The Penarth Learning Community is schedule to open on October 2014 as originally planned. The co-location of Health, Social Care and Education key officer has been allowed for in the design of facilities.

Measures Target


A Percentage of all schools engaged in the National Participation Standards

80% 80%

Percentage of lead teachers taking part in specialised training on school councils

80% 84% (achieved in 2011/12)

C Number of schools receiving a counselling service Not set 60 - All primary, junior, special and


secondary school receive a service

Number of young people accessing the service Not set 384 Percentage of young people who express satisfaction with the

counselling service 95% 100%

Percentage of young people expressing satisfaction with the appointment and referral arrangements for the counselling service

95% 100%


5. People have the education and skills to live prosperous, fulfilled lives

Learning opportunities are of high quality

Broad objectives: what we are trying to achieve Objective A: Leadership, Standards and Provision in our schools are of a high quality

Current Strength High performing schools Engaged learners Comprehensive data systems High quality support and guidance to schools

Areas for Improvement 1. Rigour of challenge and target setting, particularly in the secondary phase 2. Strategic planning of additional learning needs and inclusion provision. 3. Standards and curriculum opportunities for vulnerable learners, and particularly in the pupil referral unit. 4. Developing a shared strategy for 21st century schools. 5. Clarification of funding arrangements and respective roles and responsibilities of schools and services to provide increased value for

money. Areas of collaboration: Central South consortium Bridgend County Borough Council Fisher Family Trust





A All schools receive high quality professional challenge, monitoring and intervention via their allocated System Leader and through the new collaborative, Consortium based, Joint School Improvement Service (JES)

Schools helped to target resources effectively and based on need, in order to secure high quality provision and high outcomes for all learners.

1,2 and 3 March 2013*

Targets set for schools in the Foundation Phase, Key Stage 2 and 3 have resulted in improvements in outcomes as recorded in the June 2013 school returns (comparative figures will be available in August 2013). Table 1 below illustrates the improvements made in outcomes for the academic year 2012 -2013.

Schools receive high quality targeted support, through the new collaborative, Consortium based, Joint School Improvement Service (JES) and through LINKS the Learning and Innovation Network for Schools

Improved standards and provision secured in targeted areas of the schools work.

1, 2 and 3 March 2013*

Universal support for all schools via the +1 Maths Programme and targeted support for identified schools is nearing completion. Outcomes in English and Maths have improved as set out in Table 1 below.

All schools receive high quality performance data, based on the achievement needs of individual pupils (including our vulnerable learners). This information is used by System Leaders (SL) to underpin the delivery of robust professional challenge during termly SL visits to all schools.

Improved well-being and outcomes for children with barriers to learning or living in deprived areas.

1,2 and 3 March 2013*

All schools received the School Data Pack from the JES. This contained performance information at whole school, subject and individual pupil level. This data was used to set challenging targets. Outcomes have improved for the academic year 2012 -2013 as set out in the Table 1.

Develop Special Schools as centres of excellence to support the work of

Mainstream schools will be able to better

2 March 2013

Outreach services have been established in all three special


mainstream schools support vulnerable learners.

schools in the Vale and provide support assessment and training for mainstream staff in order to build the capacity of mainstream schools to meet the needs of pupils with AEN.

*Results won’t be known until Summer 2013 Measures Target

2012/13 Performance

A Standards of achievement In Vale schools rank higher than expected Vale FSM rank position for end Foundation Phase, Key Stage 2 and Key Stage 3 teacher assessment.

100% Comparative data expected summer 2013

Estyn judge the quality of leadership in Vale schools inspected, to be good or better

80% 86%

Estyn judge the quality of provision in Vale schools inspected, to be good or better

70% 86%

Estyn judge standards of achievement and wellbeing in Vale schools inspected, to be good or better

70% 86%

Standards of achievement outperform the all Wales means for Reading, Writing and Maths in combination, for end of Key Stage 2 and Key Stage 3 teacher assessment

100% Comparative data expected summer 2013


Table 1: F. Phase LLC (E) LLC (W) MD PSE 10 11 12 13 10 11 12 13 10 11 12 13 10 11 12 13 Vale 88 89 88 90 97 95 91 92 92 92 91 92 93 95 Wales 83 84 83 90 91 86 88 88 87 91 KS2 English Welsh Maths Science CSI 10 11 12 13 10 11 12 13 10 11 12 13 10 11 12 13 10 11 12 13Vale 88 85 89 91 84 78 90 89 88 88 88 92 89 90 89 94 86 81 86 89Wales 82 83 85 81 82 84 83 85 87 86 87 89 78 80 83 KS3 English Welsh Maths Science CSI 10 11 12 13 10 11 12 13 10 11 12 13 10 11 12 13 10 11 12 13Vale 77 79 79 87 81 84 84 91 80 83 83 88 83 84 83 90 69 72 72 81Wales 73 76 79 77 81 84 76 78 81 77 80 84 64 68 73


6. Communities are vibrant and safe, with access to good housing and sustainable transport

Improved quality of existing housing stock

Broad objectives: what we are trying to achieve A. Delivering and maintaining the Welsh Quality Housing Standards

B. Private housing renewal

Current Strengths Good track record of delivering housing improvements Strong tenant engagement New Castleland Renewal Area declared Successful track record of area improvement through Renewal Area activity.

Areas for Improvement 1. Quality of council housing stock 2. Quality of estate environment 3. Poor engagement with leaseholders 4. Little integration between revenue and capital programmes 5. Maximise in house grant agency services 6. Community and commercial sector engagement Areas of collaboration: Tenants/leaseholders Residents associations Communities First areas Local and national contractors Registered social landlords Existing registered social landlord


Improvement actions Our planned actions each aim to address the broad objectives above and one or more of the specific areas of improvement. Objective Actions Results/Benefits Areas for

improvementDeadline Progress update

Introduce ‘selective licensing’, ‘landlord accreditation’ or other proactive enforcement initiative to improve the condition of private rented sector accommodation.

Improve the condition of private rented sector accommodation and utilise resources more effectively.

6 March 2013

50 places on landlord accreditation training have been offered to landlords with property in the Renewal Area. Cabinet Report being drafted with Legal support on declaring additional HMO licensing in Renewal Area

Measures Target


A % of housing stock where WHQS work has been carried out* 10% 13.7% B Number of Properties improved 130 548 Number of

a) newsletters circulated and b) stakeholder forum meetings held

a) 3 b) 2

a) 3 b) 26

Number of dwelling units brought back into residential use 5 14 Number of private rented properties improved. 25 71


7. Wales is an energy efficient, low carbon and low waste society

Waste and natural resource efficiency

Broad objectives: what we are trying to achieve A. To reduce waste going to landfill and increase recycling rates. B. To reduce carbon emissions from public buildings by

increasing energy efficiency and reducing waste. Current Strengths Good partnership arrangements in place for Prosiect Gwyrdd* Carbon Management Plan adopted by Cabinet Extension of recycling service into kitchen waste Close working with Carbon Trust and with Salix

*Prosiect Gwyrdd is a partnership between, Caerphilly Borough County Council, The County Council of the City and County of Cardiff, Monmouthshire County Council, Newport Council and Vale of Glamorgan Council The combined municipal waste of the five authorities makes up 40% of the total municipal waste of Wales. Prosiect Gwyrdd is committed to looking for the best environmental, cost effective and practical solution for waste after recycling and composting has been maximised in each area.

Areas for Improvement 1. Increase recycling rates and participation 2. Minimise residual waste 3. Work towards carbon reduction targets Areas of collaboration: Prosiect Gwyrdd Carbon Trust Local Service Board partners on carbon initiative



Objective Actions



A Increase waste recycling rates to 52%

Less residual waste in landfill

1 March 2013

The submitted figure from within WasteDataFlow for 2012/13 is 54.38%.

Increased community and education campaign

Less residual waste in landfill

1 March 2013

Community and educational campaigns in 2012/13 have included: Christmas card schools recycling campaign Crucial Crew awareness/education Extensive newspaper coverage and press releases Use of social media, text and video clips School and community group presentations Attendance at public events such as Vale Show; community and public sector events Extensive use of waste awareness and education trailer throughout the area Rebranding ‘What’s in your Bin’ to focus on recycling and composting and branded merchandise to promote the measure (seeds, mints, pens etc.)

Progress a regional residual waste A regional approach to 2 March Prosiect Gwyrdd


treatment facility through – complete the procurement process and select a preferred bidder.

dealing with residual waste 2013 procurement process is at the ’Preferred Bidder’ stage following Council’s approval of Viridor Ltd to be the preferred bidder on the 8 March 2013. The procurement process is in the ‘fine tuning’ stage and on track for contract singing in July/August 2013 and contact commencement in April 2016. Joint arrangements are in place for the treatment of dry recycling with Caerphilly CBC and the joint procurement of Organic (kitchen and green wastes) future AD treatment 2015 -30 with Cardiff City Council has reached the end of the ISDS stage and will be entering the Finder Bidder stage in the autumn of 2013.

Progress a regional residual waste treatment facility through – agree a preferred technology and location.

A regional approach to dealing with residual waste

2 March 2013

As above, other than the selection of the preferred bidder, Viridor Ltd, does now confirm the treatment technology to be EfW and the location of the facility to be Trident Park, Cardiff.

B Work with Partners and with Carbon Trust to achieve 8%

Reduce our carbon footprint and reduce carbon energy

3 March 2013

We have reduced our carbon emissions by 11%


reduction in C02 by 2013. costs; lead by example in the community

over last year; this has been assisted by transferring leisure centres to Parkwood Leisure and by leasing Dyffryn Gardens to the National Trust, who are now responsible for any emissions from these buildings.

Measures Target


A Total percentage of dry recyclable waste reused and/or recycled.

29% 33%

Percentage of municipal waste composted or treated biologically in another way.

23% 21%

Percentage sent to landfill. 48% 46% Percentage of households having kitchen waste collections 100% 100% B Number of energy efficiency projects undertaken* 10* 13


8. The environment is protected and sustainable

Enhancing the quality and enjoyment of the natural environment

Broad objectives: what we are trying to achieve A. To maintain the Vale’s biodiversity. B. To protect and improve the Vale’s Rights of Way C. To protect the Vale’s natural environment Current Strengths Approved Biodiversity Action Plan Advanced Rights of Way Definitive Map Adopted UDP and well advanced LDP

Areas for Improvement 1. Ensure Biodiversity is considered in all developments 2. Ensure LDP protects areas of greatest environmental threat 3. Maintenance and signing of Rights of Way 4. Coastal protection Areas of collaboration: Biodiversity Forum Valeways SEWTA (South East Wales Transport Alliance) SEWSPAG (South East Wales Strategic Planning Advisory Group) CCW



Objective Actions



A Undertake a species survey in relevant areas

Surveys show a more diverse range of species in relevant areas

1 March 2013

Protected species information gathered via planning application process. Surveys of key plants and butterflies have been completed at The Heritage Coast. Evidence that High Brown Fritillary butterflies have established new presence on newly managed land and increased presence of important plant species found. Adder monitoring taking place this year at Porthkerry Country Park.

B Improve the condition and signing of existing Rights of Way by removing barriers with Valeways

Increase public access and understanding of the natural environment

3 March 2013

575 maintenance issues have been resolved since 1 April 2012. Worked with Valeways to re-establish volunteer working party, further improvements made under ROWIP/RDP

B Provide support to Valeways (third sector organisation) to encourage the improvement and protection of public rights of way.


3 Annually Core funding grant of 20k provided to Valeways. CCW Partnership grant supporting volunteer days & Valeways led walking festival. Monthly meetings with Valeways.

C Implement a programme of liaising with schools


2 Annually Both country parks and the Glamorgan Heritage Coast Project are providing formal


educational packages and experiences which have been taken up by schools. Interactive link now established between Schoolnet and Country Parks internet content. Schools have been directly involved in designing educational content for products being offered. Schools Special Needs Literacy Coordinator involved in designing a literacy trail at Cosmeston Lakes Country Park. Interpretation materials developed. New schools liaison plan developed by the Ecology Service for 2013. This will enhance the current ‘Awards for Wildlife’ project which has a schools category. 4 teacher training sessions held at Porthkerry during the last year, promoting different aspects of the Forest School initiative. These have been held in partnership with the Forestry Commission, and the Forest Education Initiative Cluster groups for the Vale of Glamorgan schools.


C Protect vulnerable parts of the Vale’s coast such as Penarth Esplanade and parts of the Heritage Coast where considered a priority in the Shoreline Management Plan. Sea defences will be strengthened at specific locations and ‘managed retreat’ measures will also be considered with the Environment Agency.

Protection of coast and of infrastructure and communities where relevant.

4 March 2013

No assets identified as requiring protection as part of the Shoreline Management Plan have been lost or impaired. Where sea defences are in place these have been inspected and maintained.

Measures Target


A Percentage of all services that take into account biodiversity 70% 80.2% B % of Rights of Way considered easily accessible 57 61.85% C LDP in place Y N


9. Our language, culture and heritage thrives

Improved protection and condition of the historical environment

Broad objectives: what we are trying to achieve A. To protect and improve historic buildings and landscapes. B. To increase visitor numbers to historic attractions in the Vale. Current Strengths Strong Conservation Area policies Success at restoring Listed Buildings Good schemes for interpretation of historic environment

Areas for Improvement 1. Continued restoration 2. Increase visitor number 3. Increase protection of buildings and places Areas of collaboration: Penarth Arts and Crafts Limited CADW Heritage Lottery Fund Local Landowners Glamorgan Gwent Archaeological Trust





A Identify new uses for Dyffryn House with the Heritage Lottery Fund and CADW*

Building is renovated and brought back into use

1/2/3 March 2013

After securing HLF and Cadw grants, renovation of the ground floor and first floor principle rooms of Dyffryn house is complete. This part of the house has been restored to its former Edwardian splendour and is open to visitors and available for events

Transfer Dyffryn House and gardens to the management of the national Trust.

Increased publicity for and attendance at the House and gardens

1/2/3 March 2013

Dyffryn House and Gardens leased to The National Trust from 1st January 2013 on a 50 year renewable lease. Membership based model and national marketing resources of NT suggest an increase of visitor numbers to 100,000 in 5 to 10 years.

Improve coastal access with local landowners

Increased access and visitor numbers

2 March 2013

The original Coastal Access programme has progressed well and almost 100% physical completion of improvements was achieved by March 2013. Improvements this year include Sully footpath, 3 West Farm Ogmore and Llantwit Major Beach. Considerable new dedicated Wales Coast Path Signage is being installed, and


new information panels installed in a number of locations.

Measures Target


A New Rights of Way created on the Wales Coastal Paths (Metres)* 0 0 (now completed) A Number of visitors to Dyffryn Gardens** 50,000 32, 707 Visitor numbers

dropped substantially during the year. It is thought this resulted in part from the extended period of transfer to the National Trust, as season ticket holders in particular showed a drop in attendance. These would have been anticipating free entry with NT membership in many cases, and these individuals represent a large proportion of visitors. The inclement weather throughout the summer of 2012 is also a likely contributor. However, the transfer to NT was successful and will undoubtedly result in a very significant increase.


10. Public services are efficient and provide value for money

More efficient and effective procurement

Broad objectives: More efficient and effective procurement by: A – To roll out the Oracle i-procurement system across the Council as part of the Oracle ERP System B – To undertake a business appraisal for joining Xchangewales C - To maximise the management information available on procurement as part of the wider Oracle financial suite of systems and associated reporting software D – To maximise electronic processing of orders and payments, and increase contract compliance including the use of framework agreements. Current Strengths • The Council’s current Procurement Strategy includes the need for the adoption of an e-procurement system in order to increase

efficiency and reduce costs. • The Council has successfully implemented a number of key aspects of the Oracle ERP Suite of systems including those within the

Oracle Financials module including Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivables, General Ledger, Payroll, I Expenses. As part of this implementation the Oracle i-Procurement module is being rolled out across the Council with a view to increase process efficiencies and reduce costs.

• As part of this exercise the Council is currently undertaking a business case appraisal for joining the Xchangewales hub. This would host and allow access to all Wales contracts, regional collaborative frameworks and other corporately adopted contracts that are available for use by public sector organisations. Information and prices from suppliers will be maintained to ensure that a catalogue style approach to buying will be available for key commodities and services.

• The Council is a member of the Welsh Purchasing Consortium (WPC), which is currently reviewing and developing new contracts which better meet the requirements of local government today.

• The Council has developed sustainable procurement guidance to assist in meeting the social, environmental, economic and ethical considerations in terms of its arrangements for buying goods and services.

• The Council has recently published details of payments made to suppliers as part of the Council’s commitment to transparency in its operations.


Areas for Improvement 1. Improve management information via i-procurement to identify potential areas for development of contracts which maximise

procurement efficiencies eg) corporate contracts, framework agreements, Value Wales. 2. Reduce transaction costs associated with the production and processing of orders for goods and services by using the Oracle Financial

Suite. 3. Enable faster and more accurate payment processes to suppliers to improve performance against National Performance Indicators. 4. Provide greater visibility and control of spend to improve accountability and communication to local stakeholders. 5. Improve procurement decisions including adherence to local regulations and statutory requirements. Areas of collaboration: Welsh Purchasing Consortium XChange Wales (WAG initiative through Value Wales to provide an e-trading hub for contracts)

Improvement actions Our planned actions each aim to address the broad objectives above and one or more of the specific areas of improvement. Objective Actions Result/benefit Areas for

improvement Deadline Progress update

A,B,C,D Achieve procurement efficiencies as part of the overall Council efficiencies target as set in the budget by maximising the use of corporate contracts, Value Wales and WPC.

More efficient business 1 March 2013

Targets met; Procurement portal launched to assist service departments in procuring through agreed contracts. Member of the newly formed National Procurement Service.

D Undertake allocated contract negotiations with WPC.

Regional collaboration leading to cost reductions

1, 5 March 2013

All obligations to be met on delivering the allocated programme.

A,C, D Implement i-procurement throughout the Council.

Improved information on what is purchased leading to better procurement. Faster payment to suppliers.

1, 2, 3, 4, 5 March 2013

Roll out of final strand of i-proc (social services) as per agreed programme was completed by 31 March 2013.


Measures Target


A,B,C,D Accumulative total of the Council’s efficiency savings that are met from improved procurement

£1.848m £1.848m (minimum)

D Percentage of allocated WPC contracts completed 100% 100% A Accumulative percentage of Sections where i Procurement

has been implemented 100% 100%

D The percentage of undisputed invoices which were paid within 30 days.

87% 88.67%

D The percentage of undisputed invoices from SMEs paid within 10 days

50% 65.17%

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