Decision details

This item was moved up the agenda with the express permission of the Chair, in order that Cllr Price could hear the debate.

The motion was presented by Cllr Ashbourne and as Cllr Gwatkin was unable to be present, seconded by Cllr Collins.  In her address Councillor Ashbourne clarified that this motion was to facilitate a meeting of key stakeholders and explained the background to it.  All members were in favour of the motion.

RESOLVED:         that the motion as follows be adopted:-

Witney Town Council notes:

• That the grassroots response to the Covid19 pandemic during lockdown was a lifeline to so many residents in the town, and provided meaningful support for Local Authorities and organisations who otherwise may have been overwhelmed. 
• This demonstrates the power and mutual benefits of collaboration and shared responsibility. 
• Support is most impactful when it is joined up and the experience of lockdown has shone a light on gaps in provision, barriers faced by residents and opportunities for a more integrated approach.

Therefore Witney Town Council commits to:

• Convene a 'Build Back Better' partnership group - extending invites to local authorities and the voluntary sector to ensure a joined up and holistic approach to supporting residents in the future and developing community resilience. The aim of this group will be to identify opportunities for creative approaches to meeting the needs of our community, addressing barriers and developing a local approach which ensures all residents have the knowledge and confidence to seek and access help when they need it.