This week saw the final Council meeting before the summer recess, and I wanted to take a moment to share some of the key areas we discussed and what they mean for us as an organisation.
Firstly, we agreed our updated Workforce Wellbeing Strategy. This is firmly focused on prevention and early support—recognising that wellbeing is multi-faceted. It brings together mental, physical, financial, social and digital wellbeing, and reflects our ongoing commitment to creating an environment where people feel supported to do their best work.
We also spent time on the housing reports, which set out a more joined-up strategic approach to addressing the housing emergency. This brings together four inter-related themes—investment, regulation, incentives and taxation—to increase the supply of housing across Argyll and Bute. It’s a complex challenge, but one where partnership working and a clear, shared approach will be key.
Members also agreed to move forward with consultation on a visitor levy, following changes in legislation that now allow a flat rate to be applied. When the consultation opens, I’d encourage you to take a look and have your say—this is an important opportunity to help shape how the levy could work in practice for our communities and economy.
Finally, I want to touch on something that underpins all of this. We spend a significant part of our lives at work, and how we work together really matters. The Chief Officers Group, alongside input from the employee sounding board, has developed a set of simple statements to guide how we work together day to day. They’re grounded in mutual respect, clarity and shared purpose—and if we all play our part in bringing them to life, they will help build the kind of culture where people feel valued and supported.
You can find out more here: The Way We Work Together – My Council Works. We’ll also be highlighting this through Cascade and sharing reminders over the coming weeks.
As we experience some of our hottest weather, enjoy the sunshine but don’t forget your suncream!
Pippa
