The Partnership and Project Officer presented the report which set out information about the Community Grant Scheme and summarised applications received by the Council from voluntary organisations for funding during 2017/18.

Details of the appraisal process were provided and included a lengthy and detailed consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Economic & Community Development, Cllr Hogarth, the Deputy Portfolio Holders for Economic & Community Development, Cllrs Maskell and McGarvey and Cllr Mrs Bosley who had been trained in appraisal techniques.

It was noted that the Economic and Community Development Advisory Committee had considered the same report, the relevant minute of which had been circulated earlier that day and tabled for information.  Cabinet noted that the Advisory Committee had requested a vote of thanks be recorded and wished to express the same thanks to volunteers and voluntary groups.

Public Sector Equality Duty

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

Resolved:  That Grants, as set out in Appendix C of to the report be approved subject to the conditions set out below

i)                    that performance indicators as set out in the application forms are adhered to and monitored; 

ii)                  that appropriate Safeguarding policies and arrangements are in place, where necessary;

iii)                that appropriate recognition of this Council’s funding contribution is made in all their publicity; and

iv)                where services are provided over a wider area than the District boundaries, organisations will be required to hold grant aid from this Council in a restricted fund for the benefit of Sevenoaks District residents.