To consider the report of the Housing Enablement Team Service Manager & Interim Lightbulb Service Manager ? (enclosed).

DECISIONS

1.     That the Lightbulb agreement be extended for a further 24 months.

2.     That the current contracts with the other Leicestershire Authorities be extended two years, whilst further work is undertaken to review the delivery model and pilots.

3.     That the cost of delivering the Lightbulb Service, as set out in the report for 2025 – 2026 be noted.

4.     That delegated authority be given to the Environmental Health, Housing & Community Services Group Manager in consultation with the Portfolio Holder to monitor progress, review delivery methods and make minor necessary changes to ensure effective delivery.

Reasons:

1.     The Lightbulb Executive and Operational Boards have agreed that Blaby District Council continue to host the Lightbulb Service and that a continued review of the delivery models be undertaken of the delivery models.

2.     Extending the current contractual arrangements with partner authorities ensures continuity across Leicestershire, avoids service disruption, and allows sufficient time to undertake a structured review of the delivery model and existing pilots to inform any future long-term decisions

3.     The proposed cost of delivering the Lightbulb Service for 2025–2026 reflects the staffing structure, roles and salary assumptions that have been reviewed and agreed by the Lightbulb Executive and Operational Boards and is necessary to ensure the service remains responsive and compliant.

4.     Delegated authority is required to allow the service to respond flexibly to operational needs, emerging pressures while maintaining appropriate oversight through the Group Manager and Portfolio Holder to ensure effective governance and value for money.

Considered – Report of the Lightbulb Service Manager.

Other Options Considered:

Delivery of Disabled Facilities Grants is a mandatory function of Blaby District Council, there are a number of options for delivery which are being explored, delivering the service as prior to Lightbulb, would be less holistic and preventative and would provide a poorer service to Blaby residents.

The Leader Cllr Ben Taylor thanked the Lightbulb Team for their hard work with this Partnership acknowledged the excellent service Lightbulb supplies.