Issue - meetings

To consider any requests received in accordance with Standing Orders.

Ms Emine Ibrahim introduced a deputation to respond to the Cabinet response to the Overview and Scrutiny Committee Report on Violence Against Women and Girls.

The deputation stressed that there was a need to protect single-sec girls from violence and abuse. It was explained that single-sex provision was an essential part of feeling safe and recovering from trauma of abuse. It was additionally noted that any introduction of single-sex provision should not reduce provision from others who require support, and that there should be provision for all those in need through the procurement of dedicated services.

The Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care provided a response.

It was stressed that the Council wanted to ensure that no resident should not be left without support, and that all service users received utmost care and respect. It was highlighted that there needed to be a focus on the delivery of the Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) and that any service users had sufficient service provision available to feel safe.

The Cabinet Member informed the deputation that the Council was at an early stage of developing the service to ensure that the service allowed for all victims and survivors of abuse to access service. He highlighted that the Council was committed to ensuring that services were lawful and accessible. It was also stressed that there needed to be assurance that trans residents were not excluded from service provision.