The Head of Benefits Services presented the report which provided an update on outstanding matter relating to Our Base – related to premises arrangements and to Pollyanna Training Theatre - related to additional information required relating to outreach undertaken to engage with BAME beneficiaries.  This information was requested by the GDSC at the meeting on 6^th February 2018.

The Chair invited the Chair of GSSC to comment on the report and he indicated that Members supported the recommendations. GSSC Members also noted that changes at Raines House will impact the Pollyanna project.

GDSC Members were satisfied with the on the part of by Our Base to resolve premises issues and also with the BAME information supplied in respect of Pollyanna Training Theatre.

DECISION

Recommendation 1 – Our Base

That in acknowledgement of Our Base demonstrating a willingness to enter into an appropriate agreement, pending the Council progressing the lease to conclusion, the MSG withheld payments for the period March 2017 – June 2017 be released subject to satisfactory performance.

Recommendation 2 – Pollyanna Training Theatre

That the significant variation request for the Pollyanna Training Theatre be approved in relation to the reduction in the number of BAME beneficiaries from 53% to 33% in period 10 and to 40% in Period 11 .