Contact: Lynn Ludford 01252-796270 E-mail [email protected]

1. Summary

1.1 This report identifies the benefits for the people of Hambantota, Sri Lanka following a second three week visit to that region by six Social Workers from the Children's Services Department of Hampshire County Council and two Social Workers from Southampton City Council.

1.2 The following decisions were made:

That the Cabinet agrees:

(a) that a Hampshire County Council Social Worker (already experienced in supporting Hambantota) should join the multi agency team representing the Southern Consortium of Local Authorities.


(b) that the Director of Children's Services and the Director of Property, Business and Regulatory Services consider how the County Council might best offer further help to Hambantota including the possibility of an investigative visit to assess the position in terms of technical and infrastructure support.

2. Reasons

2.1 In relation to decision (a) by agreeing to a Hampshire County Council Social Work representative joining the multi- agency team provided by the Southern Consortium this would ensure continuity and make use of the considerable links already made with the community.

2.2 By agreeing to the above Hampshire County Council would be able to continue to enable the local non-governmental organisations, community workers, the urban council and other organisations to support the community.

3. Other options considered and rejected

3.1 Not to offer further support.

4. Conflicts of interest declared by the decision maker or a member or officer consulted - none.

5. Dispensation granted by the standards committee - not applicable.

6. Reason(s) for the matter being dealt with if urgent - not applicable.

Approved by : ............................... Date: ...............................

Councillor T K Thornber, CBE