Decision details

This report seeks approval to extend the post of Principal Emerging Communities Manager to co-ordinate activity in relation to MHCLG Controlling Migration Fund, National Lottery Community Fund, asylum seekers, refugees and migrant communities in Oldham and manage staff employed within the Emerging Communities Team.
It is recommended that the post be extended until 31st March 2022

RESOLVED - That: The post be extended until March 2022

Option 1 - Approve the extension to the post of Principal Emerging Communities Manager.
Approval of the post would provide capacity to co-ordinate activity in respect of asylum seekers, refugees and migrant communities and in particular, lead on strategic negotiations regarding policy decisions. Furthermore, the postholder would be able to continue to line manage staff within the Emerging Communities Team and continue the management of the external funding programmes.
If an early decision was made to approve the extension of the post, it would allow a sufficient period of notice to be given to the Housing Strategy Team to enable them to extend staff contracts as necessary.
Option 2. Do not approve the creation of the post of Principal Emerging Communities Manager
If approval to extend this dedicated resource was not granted, it is unclear how this work would be delivered. This area of work would have to be covered by different services within the Council and would result in it becoming exceptionally disjointed. Staffing is already stretched in many areas and there is a risk that the Council would not have sufficient capacity to exploit opportunities as they arise. Furthermore, it would jeopardise the Council’s ability to build stronger links with the voluntary, community and faith sector and secure further inward investment to support this area of work.
The reputation of the Council would also be compromised with external funders if there was an inability to fulfil the Council’s obligation for programme managing funds and delivering activity.

option 2

N/A