Decision details

Resourcing the COVID Helpline

Decision Maker: Director of Economy

Decision status: Recommendations Approved

Is Key decision?: No

Is subject to call in?: No

Purpose:

The helpline supports residents to access Test and trace (isolation payment) support, Impact on finances due to furlough, access to foodbank and other assistance with budgeting and debt help.
Approval was sought to fund this helpline til the end of March 2022.

Decision:

RESOLVED - That:
Funding would be made available to fund the continuation of this helpline.

Reasons for the decision:

Option 1; Commission Unity Partnership to deliver the COVID helpline in addition to the Councils main access point at a cost of £78,582 to the 31st March.
Option 2; Stand down the help line to allow staff to prioritise the Councils main access point.
Option 3; To not provide a main access point and staff maintain focus on the COVID helpline.

Alternative options considered:

Option 2; Stand down the help line to allow staff to prioritise the Councils main access point.
Option 3; To not provide a main access point and staff maintain focus on the COVID helpline.

Other reasons / organisations consulted

This paper has been to Oldham's Strategic Coordination Group (SCG) for approval.

Contact: Anna Tebay, Public Health Specialist Email: anna.tebay@oldham.gov.uk Email: anna.tebay@oldham.gov.uk.

Publication date: 15/10/2021

Date of decision: 14/10/2021

Accompanying Documents: