Decision details

To review the existing Service Level Agreement (SLA) between Fareham Borough Council and Fareham Citizen’s Advice Bureau (CAB) and to propose a further three- year SLA, for 2015-2018.

This report reviews the work done by Fareham CAB throughout the duration of their previous three-year Service Level Agreement (SLA), which concluded on 31 March 2015.  In recognition of their consistent and balanced performance, this report proposes the Council enters into a new, three year funding agreement with CAB.  The new agreement, which would cover the period from April 2015 – March 2018, would continue to provide much needed support to Fareham residents, who are seeking independent advice, help and guidance across a range of issues.

RESOLVED that the Executive:

(a)       notes that Fareham Citizens Advice Bureau has continued to provide regular and robust performance figures for the period 2012-2015, showing further increases in demand for their support and services;

(b)       supports the recommendation to fund Citizens Advice Bureau for their core work for a period of three years.  If agreed, financial support will result in a payment of £110,000 for 2015/16; £115,000 for 2016/17 and £120,000 for 2017/18;

(c)        agrees that in addition to the SLA payment for core support, the Council makes an additional grant of £35,000 per annum (for 2015-2016 initially), to fund the provision of combined, full time equivalent post, for Housing Debt Advice and Budgeting and Council Tax advice; and

(d)       agrees that the Council’s Community Development Manager continues to support Fareham Citizens Advice Bureau to identify potential external funding streams which may assist with their plans to extend their operation and outreach services within the local community, in line with their Business Plan 2015-2018.