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 to: • Scrutinise the Leader & Cabinet Member for Infrastructure and Investment in respect of matters considered and agreed by Cabinet, and key decisions taken, during the period 1 May 2025 – 15 December 2025 • Consider, scrutinise and challenge the Leader in respect of the content of the ‘Leader’s Annual Debate’ Identify any areas arising from those matters determined within this period which Committee wish to further scrutinise, as part of revisions to the committees published work programme
RESOLVED to scrutinise the work of the RCTCBC Tip Safety team
RESOLVED to: 1.Consider the contents of the Child Poverty Working Group report, attached at Appendix 1 2.Following consideration of the report and the recommendations contained within, and subject to Members comments, agree the recommendations of the working group. 3.Subject to 2 above, endorse the findings and recommendations to Cabinet
In accordance with the Code of Conduct the following personal declarations were made pertaining to the agenda J Edwards declared an interest in the Child Poverty report “My Employer is a partner to the HDRC programme” J Brencher declared an interest in the Cabinet Member Engagement item in relation to discussions around transport “A close family member is employed by Transport for Wales”
Y penderfyniad fel y'i cofnodwyd
RESOLVED to: • Scrutinise the Leader & Cabinet Member for Infrastructure and Investment in respect of matters considered and agreed by Cabinet, and key decisions taken, during the period 1 May 2025 – 15 December 2025 • Consider, scrutinise and challenge the Leader in respect of the content of the ‘Leader’s Annual Debate’ Identify any areas arising from those matters determined within this period which Committee wish to further scrutinise, as part of revisions to the committees published work programme
The Service Director of Democratic Services, Welsh Language and Communications introduced the Cabinet Member Engagement Report and advised that the purpose of the report was to scrutinise matters within the portfolio holder responsible for infrastructure and investment and to ensure that the appropriate mechanisms are in place to scrutinise the Executive. The Service Director referred to the decisions listed within the report and reminded Members that thirty minutes has been allocated for this item. The Leader of the Council, Councillor A Morgan OBE presented on key Cabinet decisions from May 2025 to December 2025, alongside his Annual debate topics which included the following: Waste / Recycling Services, Highways and Transportation, Education, Regeneration and Town Centres, Social Care, Leisure Parkas and Play, Carbon Reduction & Energy and Communities and Resident Support. The Leader invited the committee to ask any questions upon conclusion of his presentation Members raised questions on engagement with residents, particularly around long-term housing challenges and the need for clearer communication with communities affected by flooding, regeneration and infrastructure schemes. The Leader acknowledged the importance of ongoing communication with residents, especially where solutions require long-term planning rather than immediate fixes. Members questioned the role and visibility of community wardens and PCSOs. The Leader confirmed the Council’s continued funding commitment, explaining that ten PCSOs and twelve community warden posts, including supervisory roles are currently funded. These roles were described as key to tackling anti-social behaviour, providing reassurance in town centres, parks and communities and supporting wider regeneration work. Members queried budget pressures and capital investment, particularly how significant capital spending can continue alongside pressures on day-to-day services. The Leader explained the clear distinction between revenue and capital budgets, outlining how capital investment supports long-term assets such as schools, roads, play areas and sports facilities, often by drawing down Welsh government funding through matched contributions. Questions were raised about resurfacing, footways and town centre conditions, with Members highlighting resident concerns around potholes, street safety and the impact on confidence this can have on vulnerable residents going into our town centres. The Leader outlined ongoing investment in highways and footways and emphasised the importance of maintaining streets as part of wider regeneration and public safety. A Member asked about the recent cabinet reshuffle and job share arrangements, welcoming the approach as a way to share workload, strengthen decision making and bring new voices and experience into Cabinet without additional cost. The Leader confirmed that the arrangement is working well and may be considered further in the future. There was detailed discussion on flooding and emergency procedures, including the deployment of pumps, standby crews and early intervention during severe weather. Members acknowledged the reassurance this provides to residents and queried the sustainability of such arrangements. The Leader confirmed that additional revenue funding has been allocated to strengthen flooding response, while also progressing longer-term flood alleviation schemes. A Member raised a query on school budgets, and sought reassurance that education remains a priority. The Leader confirmed that school funding has consistently increased at a higher rate than the finding received, in order to help manage pressures such as pupil growth, energy costs and Additional Learning Needs. Members queried how local decisions compare with other authorities when considering Council Tax increases. The Leader explained that while council tax remains a difficult issue for residents, the authority continues to set comparatively low increases when compared to the rest of Wales, whilst recognising the need to protect services and invest in resilience. Members highlighted the need for improved communications around flood schemes, particularly to help residents understand the long timescales involved in developing and delivering major schemes. The Leader acknowledged this and confirmed that further work in underway to improve public-facing communication and manage expectations. Members also discussed future-proofing infrastructure, including electric vehicle charging. The Leader outlined recent planned investment in EV charging points, noting challenges around grid capacity and the need to support residents who cannot charge vehicles at home. Members reflected on the State of the County Borough Debate, questioning its format and time allocation. The Leader agreed that the questioning element is a vital part of scrutiny and that future sessions may need longer time slots where engagement is high and this could be considered by the Constitution Committee. Questions were raised regarding the delayed hospital discharges and partnership working with health services. The Leader outlined the extensive joint work with the Heath Board, Welsh Government and third sector partners to improve patient flow, emphasising that most social care work focuses on keeping people out of hospital and supporting timely discharge where possible. Members questioned how corporate plan investments align with long-term outcomes. The Leader explained that investment in schools, parks, transport, sports facilities and flood infrastructure is closely linked to the Council’s corporate priorities and the Well-being of Future Generations (Wales) Act, ensuring that benefits are delivered now and over the longer term. The Committee thanked the Leader for his attendance and detailed responses. Following conclusion of discussions Members RESOLVED to: • Scrutinise the Leader & Cabinet Member for Infrastructure and Investment in respect of matters considered and agreed by Cabinet, and key decisions taken, during the period 1 May 2025 – 15 December 2025 • Consider, scrutinise and challenge the Leader in respect of the content of the ‘Leader’s Annual Debate’ Identify any areas arising from those matters determined within this period which Committee wish to further scrutinise, as part of revisions to the committees published work programme
Y penderfyniad fel y'i cofnodwyd
RESOLVED to scrutinise the work of the RCTCBC Tip Safety team
The Head of Infrastructure Management provided Members of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee with an update on the work that the Tip Safety Team have undertaken in the last 12 months with respect to the management, monitoring and oversight of disused coal tips within the County Borough. The report was also supported by a PowerPoint presentation which gave Members a visual of the inspections undertaken. The Chair thanked the officers for the detailed information and welcomed a public speaker to give observations to Members. Following this, the chair invited Members of the Committee to the discussions. Members raised concerns regarding recruitment and retention, noting the specialist skills required to manage coal tip safety, drainage and geotechnical monitoring. Officers acknowledged the challenge of retaining experienced staff in a competitive market and the importance of workforce stability to support long-term risk management. Discussion focused on drainage infrastructure and maintenance programmes, with Members highlighting the scale and complexity of the task. Officers explained that while significant progress has been made, the condition, age and location of many tips create ongoing challenges, particularly where historic drainage systems are limited or poorly recorded. Members raised repeated concerns about off-road biking and unauthorised access to coal tip sites. It was noted that off-road motorcycles and similar vehicles can damage vegetation, create erosion potentially compromising the tip stability. Members expressed frustration that such activity continues despite known risks. Questions were asked about what more can be done to address this issue. Including physical deterrents, signage and enforcement. Officers explained that measures such as fencing, signage and targeted monitoring can be difficult. Particularly in remote areas. The Committee emphasised the need for improved communications and engagement, both around coal tip clearance work and the dangers of off-road biking. Members stressed that clearer, more consistent messaging to communities, including young people is essential to change behaviour and improve safety. Members also raised concerns about unregistered and privately owned tips, querying how these are identified, monitored and managed. Officers explained the limits of the authority’s powers in relation to private land, while outlining ongoing work with Welsh Government to clarify responsibilities and secure funding where intervention is required. Members raised questions about funding levels comparisons with other Local authorities, particularly whether the county borough is receiving a fair share of available support. Officers confirmed that funding bids continue to be made and that engagement with Welsh Government is ongoing, including benchmarking across Wales. Members were advised that Stakeholder meetings and engagement activity are continuing, involving local councillors, communities, landowners and partner organisations. The Committee welcomed this approach and stressed the importance of maintaining trust and transparency with residents living near coal tips. The Committee noted the report and the continued work to manage risk, secure and improve communication and engagement. Following discussion it was RESOLVED to scrutinise the work of the RCTCBC Tip Safety team
Y penderfyniad fel y'i cofnodwyd
RESOLVED to: 1.Consider the contents of the Child Poverty Working Group report, attached at Appendix 1 2.Following consideration of the report and the recommendations contained within, and subject to Members comments, agree the recommendations of the working group. 3.Subject to 2 above, endorse the findings and recommendations to Cabinet
The Service Director Democratic Services, Welsh Language and Communications presented the Overview and Scrutiny Committee with the final report of the Child Poverty Working Group, setting out the key findings, evidence gathered and recommendations aimed at improving outcomes for children and families experiencing poverty in Rhondda Cynon Taf. The Chair then introduced the final report presented to Members brings together the evidence to build a comprehensive understanding of child poverty in RCT. Through engagement with partners and families the Working Group explored the challenges that make it harder for households to access the support they need. Members heard that the key themes emerging from the evidence include: • Difficulties navigating complex systems and forms • Stigma and fear associated with asking for help • The need for earlier , preventative support rather than crisis response • The value of trusted, community-based organisations as accessible points of contact. The Chair advised that the recommendations focus on improving the visibility and accessibility of support, reducing barriers, strengthening partnership working and making better use of data. Members noted that while not all drivers of child poverty sit within local authority control, there are practical steps the Council can take to mitigate impacts locally. Upon conclusion of the presentation, the Chair invited the public speakers who had attended from the Behavioural Support Hub and Valley Kids to speak on the report who welcomed the collaborative approach and emphasised the importance of long-term, stable funding for community organisations. They highlighted the role of early intervention, clear communication and trust in supporting families effectively. Members thanked all those involved in the Working Group, particularly families and young people who shared their experiences. Members highlighted the positive impact of family engagement officers in supporting families at an early, particularly in building trust, improving engagement with schools and helping families navigate available support. Concerns were raised about capacity and the need to ensure these toles are sustained in the context of rising demand. The Service Director acknowledged the pressures on capacity and demand, explaining that family engagement officers form part of a wider early help approach. Officers advised that resources are kept under regular review and are targeted to ensure support is provided at the earliest and most effective point, working closely with schools and partner organisations. A Member asked that an easy read version of the child poverty report be produced so that families and young people can understand the findings and recommendations, not just professionals, and people who contributed lived experience can see how their input was reflected, without needing to read a long or formal report. The Service Director advised that the request could be taken forward subject to the report and recommendations being endorsed by Cabinet. Members formally endorsed the report and praised the quality of work undertaken by the Working Group. The Committee welcomed the collaborative approach, the clear focus on lived experience and the practical nature of the recommendations. Members also commended the involvement of partners, third sector organisations and families, noting this had supported the creation of a balanced piece of work. It was agreed that the report provides a strong foundation for meaningful action and reflects positively on the Council’s commitment to addressing child poverty locally. RESOLVED to: 1.Consider the contents of the Child Poverty Working Group report, attached at Appendix 1 2.Following consideration of the report and the recommendations contained within, and subject to Members comments, agree the recommendations of the working group. 3.Subject to 2 above, endorse the findings and recommendations to Cabinet
None
The Chair thanked all officers and members and public speakers for their attendance and contributions to the meeting. She reflected on the breadth and quality of discussion across the reports. She thanked Members for their constructive challenge and officers for their detailed and open responses, noting the value of respectful scrutiny in improving outcomes for residents. The Chair highlighted the importance of maintaining a focus on prevention, engagement with communities and clear communication, particularly on complex and sensitive issues.
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.
Caiff datganiadau eu darllen o'r cofnodion unwaith y byddan nhw wedi'u cyhoeddi.
Yn rhestru cynghorwyr presennol y cyngor yn unig. Nid yw aelodau cyfetholedig, swyddogion a chyn-gynghorwyr yn cael eu dangos.