Decision details

          The Board considered a report of the Executive Director – Adult Services, that advised on a proposal to continue with the existing service provision provided by two Romani Traveller Wardens at two sites at Riverview, Widnes and Canalside, Runcorn. The report set out the advantages of employing site wardens and the service they provided which had proven successful.

          The two warden contracts would be initially for three years, with an option to extend by a further two years, subject to performance and would be renewed annually. The combined contract value for the two wardens would be £48,876 annually and a combined cost of £244,380 across the five-year period.

Reason(s) for Decision

The proposal to extend the wardens employment contract will ensure a consistent approach and stability across the three traveller sites within Halton. As the wardens are situated on site, this offers an out of hours service.

Alternative Options Considered and Rejected

Due to previous issues raised, it would not be advisable to consider further service options or employing none traveller wardens, as this would prove more costly and could result in serious issues across the three sites.

Implementation Date

The contract implementation date will be 1 November 2024 for a period of three, plus one, plus one years.

          RESOLVED: That the Board

1)    Approve the proposed employment contract for the two Traveller Wardens; and

2)    Agree that the in house wardens will continue to provide site management and support across the three Council owned sites.