Issue - meetings

Report CSD23112

The Committee received a report summarising its work programme for 2023/24 and also covering matters outstanding from previous meetings, including the issue of licensing conditions raised by Cllr Jeal at the last meeting.

Cllr Owen suggested that the Committee should consider a report on officers working from home. Cllr Jeal pointed out that members of the Committee could look at policies rather than individual arrangements. Some Members commented that they preferred to see officers available in the office. Cllr Stevens cautioned that a recent tribunal decision had shown the danger of indirect discrimination in a case where a worker had caring responsibilities but management insisted on in-person attendance.

Members suggested that a report be brought to a future meeting on the Council’s policy, and that the Portfolio Holder for Resources, Commissioning and Contract Management should be invited to the meeting.

A Member also raised the subject of appraisals. Views differed on the value and effectiveness of appraisals, but Members suggested that this should be considered alongside working from home policy. 

RESOLVED that the work programme be noted, and a report to a future meeting on working from home and appraisal.