Members considered a report outlining the findings from the Universal Credit In-Depth Scrutiny Review.  The review had been commissioned by the Services Select Committee at its meeting on 31 January 2012. 

The Group Manager – Financial Services, introduced the report and highlighted the potential significant impact of this change on residents and staff.  He advised that both he and the Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Corporate Resources were extremely grateful for the work that the Members’ Working Group had carried out, the clarity it had provided and the action plan that it was putting forward. It placed the Council in a strong position going forward in what could only be described as an uncertain period.

The Chairman of the Universal Credit In Depth Scrutiny Board spoke to the report outlining the background to Universal Credits, the effects on and possible role of local councils.  Members were reminded that local councils currently had no defined role and no funding for implementation had been identified.  As a result of this the way the Council communicated any possible changes would be key.

The Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Corporate Resources agreed that there was a need to have a dedicated co-ordinating group of Officers to take forward any changes.  This group would be able to provide the Services Select Committee with regular updates. 

A Member suggested that the extensive work that had been undertaken by the Working Party should be shared with other Local Authorities, possibly through the Local Government Association.

Resolved that the Strategy be adopted.