The Cabinet Member the Environment introduced the report which summarised the procurement process and results for an outreach service for fuel and water poverty, and sought approval of the recommended contractor for a two year and one month period.  The Cabinet Member explained that it was a similar idea to the ‘green doctors’ service, except that this was a Borough-wide service.  The Cabinet Member stated that up-to 28% of households in Swale were in water poverty one of the highest levels in Kent.  He explained that the outreach worker would be able to offer advice and simple measures to help people reduce their energy and water usage and costs. 

The Cabinet Member stated that the successful tenderer was Children and Families, a local organisation based on the Isle of Sheppey who also managed local food banks and the Fair Share Kent Warehouse, so had good local contacts.  There was a possibility that the project could be extended for a further year.  The Cabinet Member proposed the recommendation.

A Member welcomed the proposal and the appointment of Children and Families whose excellent work she was aware of.  She asked if regular progress updates could be provided.   The Member also spoke about the discount schemes that some water companies offered and raised concern about how this was achieved. 

A Member asked whether pressure could be put on the relevant services to ensure more rural properties were put on mains drainage, as the rising costs of emptying cesspits was an issue for some.

The Chairman thanked the Cabinet Member for Environment for his work on the proposal and stated that the Council should be proud of the scheme.

Resolved:

(1)      That the appointment of Children and Families as the Fuel and Water Poverty Outreach Service provider from 2 March 2020 for an initial period of two years and one month with a possible extension of one year be approved.