a)            Safeguarding Policy for the Protection of Children and Vulnerable Adults

Councillor Fleming proposed and Councillor Ms. Lowe seconded the recommendations from Cabinet.  The report sought approval for the adoption of the updated Safeguarding Policy to enable the Council to more effectively meet its statutory responsibilities under s. 11 of the Children’s Act 2004 and follow guidance published by the Department of Health and Kent County Council in relation to vulnerable adults.  The Policy was intended to apply to all staff, Members of the Council, contractors and volunteers, and also clarified the District Council’s responsibility for ensuring that any organisation that received funding from the District Council had appropriate policies in place to safeguard children and vulnerable adults.

Public Sector Equality Duty

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

Resolved:  That the updated Safeguarding Policy for the protection of children and vulnerable adults be adopted.

     b)            Sevenoaks District Community Safety Strategy & Action Plan 2014/15 Adults

Councillor Fleming proposed and Councillor Ms. Lowe seconded the recommendations from Cabinet.  The report which sought approval for the adoption of the Sevenoaks District Community Safety Strategy & Action Plan 2014/15.

A Member expressed support for the policy but requested that in line with the now adopted Safeguarding Policy, that vulnerable older people living at home be added to the list of priorities when it was next reviewed.  It was noted that although not directly mentioned, the Community Safety Team took the issue seriously and particularly worked on issues such as cold calling.

Public Sector Equality Duty

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

Resolved:  That the Sevenoaks District Community Safety Action Plan be adopted.