Agenda and draft minutes

To consider the minutes of the previous meeting of the Overview and Scrutiny Management Board held on 6 May 2026 and to approve them as a true and correct record of the proceedings and to be signed by the Chair.

Reference was made by Councillor Blackham to page 19 of the agenda pack (page 15 of the minutes, paragraph 3), Minute Reference 146, which stated that it had been confirmed a review would be commissioned. It was noted that, on pages 25–26, the Chief Executive had outlined that there would be two reports, one relating to the library, its current state, and how the situation had arisen, and a second separate report, creating an apparent inconsistency.

It was suggested that the first paragraph be amended to include a cross-reference to the later section to clarify that two reports had been indicated, as otherwise it could be interpreted that only one report was intended.

For clarity, the Chief Executive confirmed that there would be two separate pieces of work: an investigation into the specifics of the markets and library project, and a review into the wider approach to delivering large regeneration projects. It was agreed that the record should reflect this distinction.

Resolved: That the Minutes of the meeting of the Overview and Scrutiny Management Board held on 6 May 2026 be approved as a true record subject to Minute Reference 146 being amended to reflect there would be two separate pieces of work: an investigation into the specifics of the markets and library project, and a review into the wider approach to delivering large regeneration projects.

To receive declarations of interest from Members in respect of items listed on the agenda.

No declarations of interest were made.

To receive questions relating to items of business on the agenda from members of the public or press who are present at the meeting.

No questions were received.

To consider whether the press and public should be excluded from the meeting during consideration of any part of the agenda.

There were no reasons to exclude the press or public.

Report from the Executive Director of Regeneration and Environment.

Recommendations

That Cabinet:

1.    Approve consultation on the draft:

1. Private Sector Housing Enforcement Policy, derived from the Association of Chief Environmental Health Officers (ACEHO) National Model Enforcement Policy; and

2. Civil Penalty Calculation Mechanism, including local market adjustment.

2.    Note that a future report with the outcome of the consultation and revised policy documents will be presented to Cabinet in November 2026.

At the Chair’s invitation, Councillor Beresford, Cabinet Member for Housing, introduced the report explaining that the Renters Rights Act and associated statutory guidance was published in November 2025.  This introduced significant changes to local authority enforcement powers, including expanded civil penalties, statutory starting points for financial penalties, and additional investigative powers.

It was noted that, as these powers fall outside the Regulators’ Code, a revised Private Sector Enforcement Policy and civil penalty calculation mechanism was required. Approval would be sought from Cabinet to undertake a six-week consultation commencing in late June, in order to comply with national legislation and establish a transparent and evidence-based framework for applying civil penalties.

The importance of ensuring proportionate and robust enforcement against non-compliance was highlighted, alongside the need to maintain fairness for compliant landlords and to reflect local housing market conditions and enforcement priorities.

It was reported that, although the Act increased civil penalties to a maximum of £40,000 and introduced a two-penalty tier system (with a lower tier of £7,000), a local reduction factor of 46.6% was proposed to ensure proportionality and recoverability in the local context. Statutory starting points would be applied, with provision for a 15% early payment discount and officer discretion of up to 20% either way based on mitigating or aggravating factors, as detailed in the appendices.

It was noted that the policy would be subject to annual review and that landlords would retain the right to challenge civil penalties through the First-tier Tribunal. Subject to Cabinet approval, a further report outlining consultation outcomes and any revised policy would be presented in November 2026, with findings to be reported back to the Board.

The Chair invited members of the Overview and Scrutiny Management Board (OSMB) to raise questions, with Councillor Blackham expressing concern that the six?week consultation period, while meeting the statutory minimum, coincided with the summer holidays when engagement might be reduced. It was noted that the proposals were complex, involving detailed information and multiple legislative references, raising concerns about achieving meaningful engagement within the timeframe.

Sam Barstow, Service Director for Community Safety and Street Scene, acknowledged the complexity and advised that consultation materials would be simplified, focusing on key principles rather than detailed financial calculations. He confirmed the six?week period met statutory requirements and was considered sufficient, with prompt communication and reminders planned to support participation.

The Chair noted that similar concerns about summer consultations had been raised previously, suggesting these should take place before the holiday period or extend into September to maximise engagement. It was proposed that this concern be included in the Board’s recommendations.

Councillor Tinsley raised concern over the lack of a clear consultation plan, noting that previous exercises, such as selective licensing, had struggled to secure meaningful engagement. Clarification was sought on how the Council would effectively engage private sector landlords, including methods to reach the sector, promote participation, and raise awareness of the Renters’ Rights Act among those not yet informed.

It was acknowledged that, despite concerns about the  ...  view the full minutes text for item 5.

Report from the Executive Director of Corporate Services.

Recommendations

That Cabinet:

1.    Note the update on the revenue budget financial outturn 2025/26.

2.    Note the Council’s progress on the delivery of the Local Council Tax Support Top Up payment scheme.

3.    Note the update to the Household Support Fund for 2025-26.

4.    Approve the capital budget variations as detailed in section 2.4 of the report.

At the Chair’s invitation Councillor Alam OBE, Cabinet Member for Finance and Community Safety introduced the report which provided Cabinet with an update on financial matters. It was presented as an interim update on the Council’s 2025-26 financial outturn, ahead of a more detailed report scheduled for July 2026.

The Council’s projected position improved from a £3.4 million overspend reported in December to £0.3 million. This £3.1 million improvement had previously been reported to Cabinet in February. Headline details of these improvements were included in the report. The directorate forecasts indicated a positive trajectory for the Council’s finances. Strong financial management was noted as essential in addressing future budget pressures and external uncertainties.

The improved position meant that reserves remained stronger than originally projected when setting the budget, supporting the Council’s overall financial standing during a period of economic uncertainty. Spending in line with the approved budget remained critical. Continued scrutiny of income and expenditure across all services, alongside robust budget monitoring, was identified as a priority to ensure delivery of annual and medium-term financial plans while maintaining financial resilience.

The Service Director, Financial Services, Rob Mahon noted the position was identified in the 2026-27 budget papers as under financial monitoring, with ongoing work with directors to reduce the overspend and align it with budget.

The December overspend was less than 1% of the Council’s net revenue budget and not considered significant. Actions had further reduced it, strengthening the financial position. The Council was entering 2026-27 in a more robust position, as reflected in the approved budget and council tax report, though some underlying outturn challenges remain and would require further discussion. A detailed outturn report would be presented to Cabinet in July, and potentially to Scrutiny, providing early analysis of revenue and capital positions while year-end processes were finalised.

The Chair invited questions from OSMB, with Councillor Yasseen welcoming the reduced overspend and noting it as a significant improvement. Support for crisis measures in the budget was welcomed, including free school meal vouchers (c.141,000 rising to 142,000), £413,000 for energy support, household fuel assistance, £90,000 for care leavers, and council tax subsidies. Clarification was sought on continuation of this support into 2026.

It was confirmed that the 2025–26 Household Support Fund figures reflected final outturn delivery, including total vouchers issued, value of energy support, and households supported.

Councillor Yasseen commended the scale of delivery and improving financial trajectory but raised concern over £6.2m of service pressures, particularly in Children’s Services, and sought assurance on further mitigating actions.

It was reiterated that there was no single solution to CYPS placement pressures. Actions had included reviewing placements and delivering prior savings, improving the position. The 2026–27 budget included a £2.8m uplift and £2m for inflation, though pressures were expected to exceed assumptions. Grant funding had provided additional support, but completion of savings plans remained critical, particularly the in-house residential programme (four placements across two properties in 2026–27) to reduce reliance on high-cost external provision.

Forecasting remained challenging due to demand volatility,  ...  view the full minutes text for item 6.

To consider the report from the Health Select Commission which summarises the findings and recommendations of the Health Select Commission Spotlight Review into the Menopause ahead of it’s submission to Cabinet.

The Chair and Members received a Spotlight Review on Menopause presented by Councillor Keenan on behalf of the Health Select Commission. Although originally commissioned as a workshop, the high level of engagement demonstrated the importance of the issue and the need for action; it was therefore progressed as a formal review to ensure contributions informed meaningful change.

The review identified menopause as a significant public health issue for Rotherham. Evidence indicated that up to 113,000 residents would experience symptoms during their lifetime, with around 35,000 experiencing severe impacts on daily life. These effects extended beyond physical health to mental wellbeing, family relationships and economic participation, affecting individuals, households, workplaces and communities across the borough.

It was consistently reported that awareness remained low and that information, advice and guidance were inconsistent and fragmented. As a result, many individuals did not recognise symptoms or know where to seek support, leading to delays and avoidable distress. Experiences of primary care varied, with inconsistencies in diagnosis, advice and treatment, and the link between menopause and mental health was not always recognised or addressed. Gaps in community provision and outreach were identified, particularly for underserved groups, alongside the importance of peer support. In the workplace, stigma and limited support were reported, with some individuals leaving employment. While examples of good practice were noted, activity was not yet sufficiently coordinated, consistent or visible to address the impacts of menopause and perimenopause.

The Commission developed recommendations to improve awareness, strengthen primary care, integrate mental health support, expand community provision and support employers. It also highlighted the need for stronger system leadership through a coordinated multi-agency approach, with the ambition of establishing Rotherham as a menopause-friendly borough.

The proposals aligned with the Council Plan by supporting residents to live well, promoting stability for children and young people, and contributing to an inclusive economy by reducing barriers to employment. The intended impact was both individual and systemic, improving quality of life while strengthening communities and economic resilience. Members were advised to note that a reference to paragraph 5 should instead refer to the recommendations section of the report.

The report was presented as a practical roadmap for change, reflecting the experiences of residents and partner commitment, and setting out how coordinated leadership and sustained effort could improve understanding and support for menopause. The report was commended to the Board.

The Governance Advisor, Kerry Grinsill-Clinton, endorsed the comments made by Councillor Keenan and formally noted sincere appreciation for the strong engagement from partners, including the voluntary and community sector, in the preparation of the report.

Councillor Yasseen expressed thanks to the Chair of the Health Select Commission for the significant work undertaken, noting that it remained an area requiring further attention. It was highlighted that women’s health continued to be overlooked, and that the focus on aspects of older women’s health was overdue. The report was welcomed; however, concern was raised regarding the limited ability of the review process to drive action, beyond setting out the case. It was suggested  ...  view the full minutes text for item 7.

To consider the Board’s Work Programme.

The Governance Manager presented the Work Programme for 2026–27 for consideration.

An update was provided on the review into lighting columns - Cut unnecessary red tape. It was noted that the review group would be meeting later that day to consider policies of other authorities, the Council’s interim position, and the results of a survey of parish councils.

The survey had opened on 28 May and was due to close on 30 June. As of the previous afternoon, 18 responses had been received, comprising 10 from parish clerks, 3 from chairs or vice-chairs, and 5 from parish councillors. Responses would continue to be monitored and analysed following closure, with findings to be reported back to the review group.

Councillor Baggaley queried whether a date had been set for the Children’s Takeover Challenge, noting the importance of scheduling it in advance, particularly to ensure Cabinet Members were able to attend. The Governance Manager reported that work was ongoing with relevant officers regarding the Children’s Takeover Challenge. It was noted that the event was being planned for September; however, a topic for scrutiny had not yet been confirmed. Further engagement would take place to progress this and to secure a suitable date. It was indicated that the event would most likely take place on a Wednesday evening to align with the usual Youth Cabinet meeting arrangements, with a typical start time of 5.00 pm.

The Chair advised that all Elected Members had been invited to submit suggestions for the work programme, with a deadline of the following Friday, 12 June 2026, for responses. It was noted that submitted ideas would be reviewed by the Chair and Vice-Chair against agreed criteria and a prioritisation matrix, with the Board making final decisions on those to be progressed. Select Commissions would also be able to engage with officers on appropriate next steps where relevant. Members were reminded to submit any suggestions by the deadline and to copy relevant officers to ensure they were recorded.

Councillor Baggaley sought an update on the item relating to street bin collections scheduled for June/July. It was reported that officers were currently collating the required information following previous discussions, with an update to be circulated to Members in due course. Councillor Baggaley emphasised the importance of the item being considered prior to the summer period, highlighting the need for timely progress.

RESOLVED: That the Work Programme be approved.

To receive updates from the Chairs of the Select Commission on work undertaken and planned for the future:

• Health Select Commission
• Improving Lives Select Commission
• Improving Places Select Commission

Update from Health Select Commission:

This update was noted as presented within the agenda pack.

Update from Improving Lives Select Commission:

This update was noted as presented within the agenda pack.

Update from Improving Places Select Commission:

This update was noted as presented within the agenda pack.

To review and identify items for pre-decision scrutiny from the Forward Plan of Key Decisions.

Link to: Browse plans - Forward Plan of Key Decisions, 2026 - Rotherham Council

The Chair presented the Forward Plan of key decisions, noting that several items were on the agenda. It was proposed that the Health Hub Phase 2 item would not be considered as this was due to be considered by the Health Select Commission in September 2026. It was also proposed to remove the Children and Young People Services School Capital Programme item.

It was noted that the three finance reports would be included on the agenda as separate items but would be considered collectively as a single item, with questions taken across all three as required. Members noted that limited discussion was expected on the financial monitoring report due to the short reporting period.

RESOLVED: That the Overview and Scrutiny Management Board agreed that the following items would be added to the July agenda as part of OSMB’s pre-decision scrutiny work:

·       Council Plan 2025 - 2028 & New Year Ahead Delivery Plan - Pre-decision

·       Leader Q&A - to be scheduled after Council plan on the agenda.

·       Financial Outturn 2025-26 - Pre-decision scrutiny

·       Treasury Management Outturn 2025-26 - Pre-decision scrutiny

·       Financial Monitoring for May - Pre-decision scrutiny

·       Draft Street Trading Policy – Pre-decision scrutiny

As part of their role the Chair and Vice Chair of OSMB are appointed to the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (MCA) Overview and Scrutiny Committee. The Chair of OSMB is the Vice Chair on this committee.  

This committee holds the MCA to account and ensure that all aspects of the decision-making process are transparent, inclusive and fair.   The Committee are responsible for checking that the MCA is delivering its objectives and that the decisions made in policies, strategies and plans have been made in the best interests of the residents and workers of South Yorkshire.

The published agenda packs and minutes can be accessed via: South Yorkshire MCA.

Members who have comments and queries regarding any item on any agenda should refer this to the Chair of OSMB and the Governance Manager at the earliest opportunity to ensure they’re reflected in debate during the relevant public meeting.

The Chair noted that no meetings had taken place since the last update.

However, further meetings had been scheduled for June.

To consider any issues referred for call-in from recent Cabinet meetings.

There were no call-in issues.

To determine any item which the Chair is of the opinion should be considered as a matter of urgency.

There were no urgent items.