The Portfolio Holder for Direct & Trading presented the report which provided an overview of a new scheme for charging for support advice given to food business. The scheme was Accelerating Compliance and Economic Success (ACCESS) and would provide enhanced support for food businesses and tailored to suit each business. The minimum charge for a basic package of £100 plus VAT for 2 hours work with the ability to purchase additional time.

Food Safety Officers within the EH Commercial team would carry out the ACCESS Visits and a different office would do any rescore visits to avoid conflict of interest. Free information would be provided on the Council’s website and via associated links.

He advised that the Direct & Trading Advisory Committee had considered and debated the same report and agreed to recommend it to Cabinet.

Public Sector Equality Duty

Members noted that consideration had been given to impacts under the Public Sector Equality Duty.

Resolved:  That

a)      it be agreed for the Environmental Health Partnership charging for bespoke food safety advice for new businesses; and

b)     a minimum fee be charged of £100 plus VAT for 2 hours work, and £50 per hour thereafter, on a cost recovery basis.