On Monday 10 February, Stratford-on-Avon District Council's Cabinet received a report on the progress of the Growing Opportunities Plan.
The Growing Opportunities Plan 2023-2024 was approved by Stratford-on-Avon District Council in December 2023. The Plan uses data and insight to inform a variety of public, voluntary and community sector organisations. The activity is aimed at reducing social inequalities for the most vulnerable residents.
Following its approval, an Action Plan was developed, which detailed the areas of focus and the specific actions to be delivered under the headings:
- Reducing rural inequalities
- Improving health and wellbeing
- Empowering and strengthening local communities
- Improving education and skills and increasing financial resilience
Since January 2024, of the 99 actions included in the plan, 21 actions have been completed with a further 52 actions on track to be completed (green). Attention will now shift to those actions currently tagged amber or red to ensure they are delivered, where possible, by the target. Details of the completed actions can be viewed here.
Notable achievements within the first year of this plan include:
- Reviewing childcare in Upper Lighthorne.
- Working with all District foodbanks to increase help by offering advice and assistance as well as food.
- Recommissioning the Stratford Community Builder, to encourage community development work in priority communities.
- Supporting the development of new community groups, residents' associations and activities by establishing the Fernleigh Park/Shackleton Support Partnership.
- Delivering Mind mental health first aid training for young people and parents in schools.
- Embedding the recommendations from the Voices of Tomorrow (Child Friendly Warwickshire) into the activity and service development of the Social Inclusion Partnership (SIP).
Cllr Liz Coles, Portfolio Holder for Housing, Revenues and Customer Services at Stratford-on-Avon District Council, said: "This report provides the first annual update since The Cabinet approved the Plan in December 2023 and demonstrates strong progress in the delivery of the Growing Opportunities Action Plan. It also provides reassurance that this important work is being actively managed and delivered effectively.
"We're delighted with all the wonderful work achieved as a result of strong partnerships between the organisations involved."
