Contact: Louise Pickford - Ext: 7355

1. Summary

1.1. At a meeting of the Executive Member Policy and Resources on 12 September 2001 a request for financial assistance was considered from Honeypot House in Exbury.

1.2. At that meeting, it was agreed that as the Executive Member Policy and Resources represents the area in which the organisation is based, to refer the request to the Social Care Policy Review Committee to make a recommendation for consideration at the next Executive Member Policy and Resources meeting.

2. Background Information

2.1. Since their launch in 1996, Honeypot House at Exbury has been dedicated to improving the quality of life for severely disadvantaged children aged between five and twelve by offering outings, holidays and respite care at their accommodation.

2.2. This year, they are seeking financial assistance towards providing a bike shed in the grounds costing £5,900 and a contribution is asked towards this cost.

2.3. In 1999, the Policy and Resources Grants Panel awarded a grant of £2,500 towards the refurbishment of their swimming pool.

2.4. Social Services Committee, where possible, make a contribution towards each child's stay. This year, 108 children have been referred by the department.

2.5. The Director of Social Services comments are as follows:-

"During the past eighteen months, the area office has purchased respite holiday packages for three users from Honeypot. This is a useful resource for some of our users and a grant is, therefore, recommended."

RECOMMENDATION

That the Social Care Policy Review Committee makes a financial recommendation for Honeypot House in Exbury to be considered by the Executive Member Policy and Resources at the next available meeting.

Section 100 D - Local Government Act 1972 - background papers

The following documents disclose facts or matters on which this report, or an important part of it, is based and has been relied upon to a material extent in the preparation of this report.

NB the list excludes:

1 Published works.

2 Documents which disclose exempt or confidential information as defined in the Act.

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