Issue - meetings

The Cabinet Member for Finance, Performance and Core Services introduced the performance report for the third quarter of the 2019/20 financial year in respect of the debt management functions carried out on behalf of the Council by the Revenues and Benefits service within Elevate East London, including the debt write-offs for the quarter.

The Cabinet Member referred to the financial pressures faced by many local residents which had impacted on some collection rates and cited the ongoing negative impact of the Government’s Universal Credit scheme which was fast becoming the single biggest issue in the collection of both rents and Council Tax. 

It was acknowledged that it was becoming increasingly difficult in the current climate to meet financial targets, albeit Elevate had done so in most areas.  The Cabinet Member conveyed his concern that the situation would get worse in the short to medium term given the current world events with people potentially losing jobs and income over the coming months, but stressed that the Council would be sensitive and compassionate to these issues.

Cabinet resolved to note the performance of the debt management function carried out by the Revenues and Benefits service operated by Elevate East London, including the performance of enforcement agents.