Wrthi'n llwytho
Y penderfyniadau fel y mae cofnodion y cyngor yn eu cofnodi. Bydd crynodeb mewn iaith glir yn dilyn pan fydd wedi'i ysgrifennu.
Resolved: That Members note the Annual Report of the Standards Committee for 2024/2025.
Resolved: That Council note and endorse the Democratic Services Committee Annual Report 2024/25 attached at Appendix 1.
Resolved: That Cllr Sonia Reynolds be removed as a member of the Social Services Scrutiny Committee. That Cllr Stephanie Grimshaw be appointed as a member of the Social Services Scrutiny Committee. That Cllr Stephanie Grimshaw be removed as a member of the Culture, Connection and Place Scrutiny Committee. That Cllr Sonia Reynolds be appointed as a member of the Culture, Connection and Place Scrutiny Committee
Resolved: That having due regard to the Integrated Impact Screening Assessment, Council authorises the Head of People & Organisational Development to authorise revisions to already agreed employment policies and procedures. This will be subject to the following provisions: All necessary consultation has taken place as appropriate to the nature and scale of the revisions. There are no budgetary implications as a result of the revisions. There is no pecuniary interest for Chief Officers, including the Head of People & Organisational Development. Excluded from the delegation will be: The Employee Code of Conduct Whistleblowing Policy
Resolved: That Members approve the implementation of the change to decision making arrangements set out in the Flexible Retirement Policy
Resolved: - the Leader on behalf of Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council formally write to UK Government and work with the Welsh Government to ask that they: 1. Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council make a formal response to the UK Governments Pathways to Work Reforming Benefits and Support to Get Britain Working green paper, taking full account of the Bevan Foundation Policy and Practice report on the impact of disability benefit reforms in Wales. 2. Reassess the Welfare Reform Act: Conduct a comprehensive review of the proposed changes with a focus on understanding their implications on vulnerable populations, especially in Wales. 3. Explore Alternative Revenue Generation: Identify and explore alternative means of generating necessary income that do not compromise essential support systems. 4. Prioritise Equitable Solutions: Implement and emphasise policies that ensure the well-being and protection of all citizens, harmonising fiscal responsibility with social justice. 5. Just and caring society. Consider the ramifications of the Welfare Reform Act 2021 and support a review with the intention of fostering a more just and caring society and pave the way for meaningful dialogue and necessary policy adjustments that align with values of community, support, and humanitarianism
The Mayor welcomed all to the meeting.
The Leader acknowledged the national attention received by the recent Urdd Eisteddfod, and noted how successful the event had been for Neath Port Talbot. The leader also acknowledged all the pupils throughout Neath Port Talbot that competed in the festival, including achieving 3rd place overall as a region. The Leader highlighted the festival as an example Council’s commitment to encourage the use of the Welsh language, which coincides with the launch of the ‘Lets Talk’ campaign. The Leader went on to state that the event was an example of how major events can deliver benefits to the area and hopes that visitors will choose to return to Neath Port Talbot in the future. Council were informed that local businesses had contributed to the event with both the crown and chair being crafted locally using steel from Port Talbot Steelworks. The Leader closed by thanking all the staff that had been involved, for their hard work in ensuring the event was a success.
The following interest was declared in relation to Agenda item 10 Flexible Retirement Policy and Agenda item 15: - The Chief Executive on behalf of all Officers as they are employed by the Council.
Resolved: That the minutes of the previous meeting held on the 2nd April 2025 be approved as a true and accurate record.
There were none.
Y penderfyniad fel y'i cofnodwyd
Resolved: That Members note the Annual Report of the Standards Committee for 2024/2025.
The Mayor welcomed Chair of the Standards Committee Louise Fleet to present her annual report to Council. L. Fleet thanked the Mayor and congratulated him on his appointment. L. Fleet began by noting that the Nolan Principles remain the foundation of ethical conduct in public life, and the report reaffirms these, and they continue to guide the work of the committee. L. Fleet went on to note that within Neath Port Talbot incidents of misconduct is rare, however the Standards Committee’s role remains vital to promote and uphold high standards of conduct. The Standards Committee has welcomed the new responsibilities under the Local Government and Elections (Wales) Act 2021, particularly on group leaders to lead by example and address bullying and harassment. The committee has continued to support both elected members and town and community councils in upholding values, which his given insight in to code of conduct matters to better understand the challenges faced by these organisations. As the nominated Standards Committee for the South West Wales Corporate Joint Committee, it was also noted that they look forward supporting ethical governance across the wider region. L. Fleet closed by thanking their fellow committee members for the dedication as well as the monitoring officer and their team for their continued and excellent support. Resolved: That Members note the Annual Report of the Standards Committee for 2024/2025.
Y penderfyniad fel y'i cofnodwyd
Resolved: That Council note and endorse the Democratic Services Committee Annual Report 2024/25 attached at Appendix 1.
The Chair of the Democratic Services Committee Councillor Saifur Rahaman introduced their annual report to Council. Councillor Rahaman noted his pleasure to present the Annual Report of the Democratic Services Committee for the period June 2024 – May 2025. The committee has continued to work to support councillors in their roles, enhance democratic participation, and improve governance. Councillor Rahaman went on to note some of the committees key areas of focus over this period. Focus going forward will be on member training and development, ensuring safety and support for councillors, and promoting democratic engagement and diversity. Councillor Rahaman closed by thanking Democratic Services Staff as well as thanking all members of the committee. Resolved: That Council note and endorse the Democratic Services Committee Annual Report 2024/25 attached at Appendix 1.
Y penderfyniad fel y'i cofnodwyd
Resolved: That Cllr Sonia Reynolds be removed as a member of the Social Services Scrutiny Committee. That Cllr Stephanie Grimshaw be appointed as a member of the Social Services Scrutiny Committee. That Cllr Stephanie Grimshaw be removed as a member of the Culture, Connection and Place Scrutiny Committee. That Cllr Sonia Reynolds be appointed as a member of the Culture, Connection and Place Scrutiny Committee
The Head of Legal and Democratic Services provided Council with a brief overview to the circulated report. Resolved: That Cllr Sonia Reynolds be removed as a member of the Social Services Scrutiny Committee. That Cllr Stephanie Grimshaw be appointed as a member of the Social Services Scrutiny Committee. That Cllr Stephanie Grimshaw be removed as a member of the Culture, Connection and Place Scrutiny Committee. That Cllr Sonia Reynolds be appointed as a member of the Culture, Connection and Place Scrutiny Committee
Y penderfyniad fel y'i cofnodwyd
Resolved: That having due regard to the Integrated Impact Screening Assessment, Council authorises the Head of People & Organisational Development to authorise revisions to already agreed employment policies and procedures. This will be subject to the following provisions: All necessary consultation has taken place as appropriate to the nature and scale of the revisions. There are no budgetary implications as a result of the revisions. There is no pecuniary interest for Chief Officers, including the Head of People & Organisational Development. Excluded from the delegation will be: The Employee Code of Conduct Whistleblowing Policy
The Head of People and Organisational Development introduced the report. It was noted that the report seeks to authorise revisions to employment policies and procedures, subject to there being no budgetary consequences of the revisions and no pecuniary interest for those employed under Chief Officer terms and conditions of employment, including the Head of the People & Organisational Development. It was also noted that any decisions taken under the delegation will be subject to full scrutiny and will be reported to the relevant cabinet member on a monthly basis. Resolved: That having due regard to the Integrated Impact Screening Assessment, Council authorises the Head of People & Organisational Development to authorise revisions to already agreed employment policies and procedures. This will be subject to the following provisions: All necessary consultation has taken place as appropriate to the nature and scale of the revisions. There are no budgetary implications as a result of the revisions. There is no pecuniary interest for Chief Officers, including the Head of People & Organisational Development. Excluded from the delegation will be: The Employee Code of Conduct Whistleblowing Policy
Y penderfyniad fel y'i cofnodwyd
Resolved: That Members approve the implementation of the change to decision making arrangements set out in the Flexible Retirement Policy
The Head of People and Organisational Development provided and overview of the report. She went on to note that this follows the prior report approved in March 2025 for approving Head of Service flexible retirement applications. Following the council's decision to eliminate the Personnel Committee, it is now proposed that the full council take over the decision-making process. Members asked The Head of People and Organisational Development whether there had been any alterations or reviews of the retirement policy itself. It was confirmed that there have been no other changes to the policy. Resolved: That Members approve the implementation of the change to decision making arrangements set out in the Flexible Retirement Policy
Y penderfyniad fel y'i cofnodwyd
Resolved: - the Leader on behalf of Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council formally write to UK Government and work with the Welsh Government to ask that they: 1. Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council make a formal response to the UK Governments Pathways to Work Reforming Benefits and Support to Get Britain Working green paper, taking full account of the Bevan Foundation Policy and Practice report on the impact of disability benefit reforms in Wales. 2. Reassess the Welfare Reform Act: Conduct a comprehensive review of the proposed changes with a focus on understanding their implications on vulnerable populations, especially in Wales. 3. Explore Alternative Revenue Generation: Identify and explore alternative means of generating necessary income that do not compromise essential support systems. 4. Prioritise Equitable Solutions: Implement and emphasise policies that ensure the well-being and protection of all citizens, harmonising fiscal responsibility with social justice. 5. Just and caring society. Consider the ramifications of the Welfare Reform Act 2021 and support a review with the intention of fostering a more just and caring society and pave the way for meaningful dialogue and necessary policy adjustments that align with values of community, support, and humanitarianism
The Mayor called upon Council Leader Stephen K Hunt to introduce his motion put before Council on proposed reforms to the benefits system. “Thank you again Mr Mayor. Members, we first prepared this motion back in April where there was no consultation proposals announced at the time. Given the significant impact of proposed changes would have back when first announced, this is the first opportunity today for it to be considered at Council. The primary objective of this Notice of Motion is to express deep concern and opposition to the proposed reforms to the benefits system as outlined in the Welfare Reform Act, due to their potential detrimental impact on the most vulnerable individuals within our community. The background of The Welfare Reform Act is designed to adjust the structure of benefits available to individuals across the whole of the UK. While its intention is to streamline welfare offerings and address fiscal considerations, an unintended consequence is the potential for increased hardship among the most disadvantaged members of society. These effects may undermine the social safety net essential for ensuring a minimum standard of living, particularly for individuals who are unable to support themselves due to various socio-economic or health-related challenges. Our concerns are the impact on Vulnerable Populations: The proposed changes could disproportionately affect those who rely heavily on welfare benefits, including the elderly, disabled individuals, low-income families, and unemployed people. These groups are at risk of experiencing heightened financial instability. Social and Economic Consequences: Reducing or restructuring benefits without adequate safety measures could lead to wider social and economic consequences, such as increased poverty rates, homelessness, and pressure on local services, which could negate any potential fiscal saving.” The Deputy Leader of Council Alun Llewelyn added: “In Neath Port Talbot, we know as much or even more than most about the importance of ensuring that we promote the right and ability to work and be independent whenever possible. But we also recognise the need to support individuals to reach their potential and the need to protect the most vulnerable and disadvantaged in society. We are concerned that the UK Governments Welfare Reform Act will have a disproportionate impact on Wales. Although the UK Government itself has not carried out a specific Welsh impact assessment which they should do, there is evidence to this concern from the Senedd Research Service, The Bevan Foundation and an important new report by Data Policy Analysis and Practice which has been working with Welsh Government Local Authorities on welfare rights issues. That report shows that almost 0.5 Billion could be lost by recipients in Wales over the next 5 years, particularly affecting people with disabilities and cutting thousands of pounds per year from some people on the lowest incomes in the UK. Even within Wales some of our most deprived areas including Neath Port talbot, Merthyr Tydfil and Blaenau Gwent will be worst affected per head of population. The First Minister of Wales has called on UK Government to reconsider, Plaid Cymru have called for a Wales specific impact assessment so that we can fully understand the effects of this act. It is clear that this legislation is misconceived, as the motion states its intention may be to streamline welfare, but its unintended consequence will be to plunge hundreds of thousands of people in Wales in to poverty, and a reassessment and comprehensive review are urgently needed. That is why I am pleased to second this notice of motion and ask all members for your support.” Councillor Sonia Reynolds proposed an amendment to the motion on behalf of the Labour Group. “The group agrees with the overall thrust of the motion as it has been proposed but are putting forward an amendment that is designed to strengthen. We want to make sure that what seems to be the immediate intention of the motion to support and protect our most vulnerable residents can be done to the best possible end. We respect the thrust of the motion, but in seeking a review of the Welfare Reform Act put in place by the Conservative Government in 2012, we have campaigned against that and for improvements in that system for many years, however we feel there is a need as has been indicated to consider appropriately the more formal changes and the Leader did say that there was no consultation at the time the motion was written so we are seeking to adjust in order to meet that consultation. We feel there is a need to consider that more immediate action and that is why two months ago on April 1st we wrote to the prime minister to make our feelings as a Labour Group clear and we publicised that letter and I believe that is pertinent to this discussion and the letter is available to anyone who should want it.” Cllr Reynolds then gave an overview of the letter sent to UK Government at that time. “Since sending that letter we have had the opportunity to consider the various reports that have been previously mentioned, including very particularly the report published from the Bevan Foundation policy and practice the impact of disability benefit reforms in Wales. This identifies Wales as a nation most adversely impacted by those reforms and Neath Port Talbot as has already been said is one of the most adversely affected councils. We therefore put our amendment forward seeking to add impact related to the green paper Pathways to Work, which is currently out for consultation to the 30th of June. There is a broad consensus that a formal response from Local Authorities, particularly in our situation with a high level of adverse impact from the proposed reforms is likely to have more impact on the policy makers in the UK Government in the short term, focussing on ensuring less immediate harm whilst the wider radical work proposed in the motion to review welfare reform overall is considered and if taken forward by the Government goes to a further green paper and through the long parliamentary process. I would hope in proposing the motion Independent members along with other parties in the coalition will see the benefit of taking this opportunity to respond to the immediate proposal that if taken forward will impact our most vulnerable residents and to do this alongside seeking radical reform as the motion proposes.” The amendment read: Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council make a formal response to the UK Governments Pathways to Work Reforming Benefits and Support to Get Britain Working green paper, taking full account of the Bevan Foundation Policy and Practice report on the impact of disability benefit reforms in Wales. We do amend the line stating formally write to UK Government and Welsh Government to read formally write to UK Government and work with Welsh Government. We also add on part 4 to add that it is the Welfare Reform Act 2012 as there is no Welfare Reform Act proposed by the current Government at the moment. Councillor Nathan Goldup-John added his support for the motion and noted he is mindful to also approve the amendments proposed by the Labour Group. Councillor Laura Williams seconded the amendments made by Councillor Sonia Reynolds. Councillor Simon Knoyle requested that a copy of the letter sent by the Labour Group could be circulated to Council and whether there was any response received from the Prime Minister. It was confirmed that no response had been received. The Leader thanked all for their debate and welcomed any measures that would strengthen the motion, and hopes that there will be a unanimous approval of the motion including the amendments proposed. Council were then asked the question do they wish to accept the amendment proposed. This was passed unanimously with no abstentions. The substantive motion was then proposed by the Leader and seconded by the Deputy Leader. Council were then asked the question do they wish to accept the substantive amended motion. This was then approved unanimously, with no abstentions. Resolved: - the Leader on behalf of Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council formally write to UK Government and work with the Welsh Government to ask that they: 1. Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council make a formal response to the UK Governments Pathways to Work Reforming Benefits and Support to Get Britain Working green paper, taking full account of the Bevan Foundation Policy and Practice report on the impact of disability benefit reforms in Wales. 2. Reassess the Welfare Reform Act: Conduct a comprehensive review of the proposed changes with a focus on understanding their implications on vulnerable populations, especially in Wales. 3. Explore Alternative Revenue Generation: Identify and explore alternative means of generating necessary income that do not compromise essential support systems. 4. Prioritise Equitable Solutions: Implement and emphasise policies that ensure the well-being and protection of all citizens, harmonising fiscal responsibility with social justice. 5. Just and caring society. Consider the ramifications of the Welfare Reform Act 2021 and support a review with the intention of fostering a more just and caring society and pave the way for meaningful dialogue and necessary policy adjustments that align with values of community, support, and humanitarianism
None were received.
There were none.
Resolved: That pursuant to section 100A (4) and (5) of the Local Government Act 1972 and paragraphs 12 and 13 of Schedule 12A to the above Act, the public be excluded for the following items of business. The Mayor thanked both members of the Youth Council and Chaplain for their attendance before leaving.
Rhaid i gynghorwyr ddweud pan fydd ganddyn nhw gysylltiad personol â rhywbeth sy'n cael ei drafod, fel swydd, eiddo neu aelod o'r teulu. Mae buddiant sy'n rhagfarnu yn ddigon cryf i'r cynghorydd adael yr ystafell fel arfer a pheidio â chymryd rhan.
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