Chris Holme, Acting Corporate Director, Resources, introduced the report setting out proposals for the framework, specifications and timetable for the 2015/18 Mainstream Grants Programme as well as the desired outcomes. An addendum report was tabled which included updates from discussions that had taken place with Members, including at the Overview and Scrutiny Committee.

The Commissioners then asked attending Members to respond to the proposals in the report. Councillors Rachael Saunders, Peter Golds and Oliur Rahman provided responses.

The Commissioners considered the submissions from Members and responses from officers in particular about ward groupings and how to enable small organisations to bid.

The Commissioners requested that at the Annual General Meeting in May 2015, the Council set up a formal cross-party group to ensure proper engagement with Members on the grants process.

The Commissioners agreed the recommendations as set out in the report.

RESOLVED

1.            To note the Funding Framework as set out in Appendix 1 to the report.

2.            To agree the proposed structure of the 2015/18 MSG Programme as set out in paragraphs 3.36 and 3.37 of the report.

3.            To agree the Programme budgets and top-slice proposals as set out in paragraphs 3.38 to 3.40 of the report.

4.            To note the redirection of the Early Years Services budget as outlined in paragraphs 3.41 and 3.42 of the report.

5.            To approve the Theme Specifications as set out in Appendix 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4 and 2.5 to the report.

6.            To note the approaches and benefits to the new programme as summarised in paragraph 3.44 of the report.

7.            To note the application and assessment process as outlined in paragraphs 3.49 to 3.55 to the report.

8.            To approve the application form as set out in Appendix 3 to the report.

9.            To approve the assessment protocol as set out in Appendix 4 to the report.

10.         To approve the proposed match funding requirements as set out in paragraph 3.56 of the report.

11.         To note the detailed Equality Assessment information as set out in Appendix 5 to the report.

12.         To note the project and programme management monitoring and evaluation arrangements as outlined in paragraphs 3.74 to 3.79 to the report.

13.         To approve the guiding principles and governance arrangements as set out in Appendix 6 to the report.

14.         To approve the extension of the grant application period from 5 to 6 weeks as set out in paragraph 3.83 to the report.