Issue - meetings

The 4Community Growth Area-Based Financial Inclusion Project (4CGY) tested out a particular approach to developing community hubs over a 30 month period from 2017 onwards.  This report highlights the learning from that project and applies that learning in proposing to deliver a wider programme of developing community hubs over the next two years.

Resolved:

(i)           That the impact of the 4Community Growth Area-Based Financial Inclusion Project (4CGY), be noted.

(ii)      That the approach to developing community hubs, as set out in paragraph 19 onwards of the report, be approved.

Reason:  To create improved community facilities and opportunities for York’s residents.

The Executive Member considered a report that informed him of the 4Community Growth Area-Based Financial Inclusion Project (4CGY) and the development of community hubs as a vehicle for supporting and engaging with York’s communities.

The Area Based Financial Inclusion Project Manager and the Strategic Services Manager were in attendance to present the report. They highlighted the background to the 4CGY project, and confirmed it was designed primarily to promote financial inclusion, through the development of community hubs. The Executive Member noted that the community hubs had been running since 2017 and provided relevant services and delivered jobs fairs, volunteer development programmes and training and support for residents.

Officers highlighted the impact the community hubs had on residents and it was noted that community volunteers, professionals and practitioners involved in running the community hubs had also recognised the real difference that the approach was making to the lives of local residents and were keen to further develop their offer and reach.

Officers explained the key elements of a community hub and the support that would be provided to all community venues to help develop their respective offer. The model used would respond to and support community need, nurture trusting relationships with communities and develop a holistic approach to the early identification of need and early help. 

The Executive Member noted the next steps to develop additional community hubs across the city, particularly in communities that faced the greatest challenges and he thanked Officers for the work they were undertaking to develop, grow and support community facilities and opportunities for York residents.

Resolved:

(i)    That the impact of the 4Community Growth Area-Based Financial Inclusion Project (4CGY), be noted.

 (ii)  That the approach to developing community hubs, as set out in paragraph 19 onwards of the report, be approved.

Reason:  To create improved community facilities and opportunities for York’s residents.