To: 
POLICY AND RESOURCES 
COMMITTEE 

## Subject New Deal For 18-24 Year Olds - Progress Report

From: CHIEF EXECUTIVE 
Date: 
3 MARCH 1998 I Ref CE/OO1/002 
Purpose of **the Report** : To provide the Committee with a progress report on the broad partnership arrangements, and on the Council's specific contribution to the implementation of the Government's New Deal for 18 - 24 year olds in Lanarkshire. 

## Introduction

At its meeting on 9 December 1997, the Committee considered a report on the preparations for 
the delivery of New Deal for 18 - 24 year olds in Lanarkshire 
                                                          together with a summary of the 
Lanarkshire New Deal Plan as submitted to the Employment 
                                                           Service (ES) Scotland. The 
Committee agreed 'in principle' to a wide ranging role for the Council in support of the New Deal, 
and allocated departmental responsibility 
                                        for each aspect of this involvement. 

A number of key elements have been determined in a relatively short period in preparation for 
commencement of the national programme on 6 April 1998. (Twelve Pathfinder areas, including 
one in Tayside in Scotland, have been operational since January). 

The Lanarkshire New Deal Delivery Plan submitted by the Strategic Partnership has been 
approved by the Department for Education and Employment. 
                                                           The Strategic Partnership includes 
Employment Service, both local authorities, Lanarkshire Development Agency, the Colleges, and 
voluntary and private sectors. The plan includes operating principles and established 
arrangements for co-ordination through the development of Consortia for management of the 
Gateway and the four core Options i.e. the Jobs Option, the Full Time Education and Training 
Option, the Voluntary Sector Option and the Environment Task Force Option. 

Whilst delivery of each of these elements will be controlled by a consortium of relevant agencies, 
ES has required each to be the subject of a formal contract, with one specific organisation taking 
contractual responsibility for its implementation. 
                                                The Council will participate in all these Consortia 
with the exception of the Voluntary Sector, and has bid to contract directly for the Environment 
Task Force (ETF) as authorised by the Committee at its meeting on the 9 December 1997. 
A deadline of 20 February was set for the submission of 'tenders' from identified lead agencies 
for each of the options. There was no competitive 
                                                  situation, as tenderers were agreed with ES 
                                                                                                in 
advance. 

## The Gateway

This i
     s
      the important initial phase of support through which New Deal participants will progress 
prior to moving into a job, education and training or into temporary placement 
                                                                               with the 
Environment 
             Task Force or voluntary sector. Each New Deal participant 
                                                                         will be appointed a 

Personal Adviser from the ES who will identify individual needs and then refer participants 
                                                                                           to 
specialist support agencies where required for specific counselling/ assistance relating to these. 

The emerging Adult Guidance Network 
                                   which is currently under development, and to which the 
Council contributes through Chief Executive's, Careers and Community Education, is seen as 
forming the Consortium to ensure this specialist support is available as widely as possible. 
Although it was felt that the contract would be taken by the Lanarkshire Careers Partnership 
company as the vehicle for the Scottish Office funding of the Careers Service and Adult 
Guidance Network, the company declined to submit the bid for the Gateway concerned at the 
potential legal and insurance liabilities. 

At short notice South Lanarkshire Council agreed that it would be the lead agency for the 
Gateway for the whole o
                        f
                         Lanarkshire and submit the tender on behalf of this consortium. This 
balanced the role of North Lanarkshire Council in taking lead contractual responsibility 
                                                                                       for the 
ETF for Lanarkshire (see below). 

Detailed preparations are underway by the ES and the Adult Guidance Network to establish a 
support mechanism 
                   which ensures that the needs of participants engaged within the Gateway are 
able to be fully met. Through Careers, Community Education, Economic Development, Leisure 
Services (Open Learning) and potentially Social Work, North Lanarkshire Council 
                                                                               will be a 
significant player in what is seen as the key to the success of the New Deal initiative. 

## Jobs Option

A consortium has been established which will assist in the marketing of New Deal to employers in Lanarkshire. The Council's Economic Development Unit will support LDA, as lead agency, in promoting New Deal through its company contacts. A formal contract is not required for this Option, as ES itself will deal directly with companies who commit to employing clients referred by the Gateway. The consortium's role is therefore mainly to promote New Deal locally. 

As one of the largest employers in the area, clearly the Council itself can make a contribution by 
recruiting from this client group, encouraging private sector companies to become involved 
through its example. Local authorities 
                                  will also be eligible for the f60 
                                                              per week subsidy and f750 
to support training costs for New Deal employees. 

The Council's Personnel Services Division has been considering options which would allow 
participation 
            as an employer, which includes issues such as the range and nature of potential 
vacancies, the number of recruits, the role of departments, the geographical spread of jobs, and 
the co-ordination, oversight and monitoring systems required. 

Following detailed discussions with ES on the implications of New Deal regulations, two 
approaches are possible 

vacancies are advertised in the normal way, but a guarantee of an interview is given to New 
Deal clients who are referred by ES, and who meet the requirements of the job. This would 
mean New Deal clients being in direct competition with other applicants. Given that New Deal 
clients have been unemployed for some time, and may have required specialist support to 
improve their employability, this could result in no New Deal clients being employed by the 
Council. 

a number of vacancies are identified as potentially suitable for New Deal employees, and 
ringfenced as a positive action recruitment programme. It is currently estimated 
                                                                               that the 
numbers involved might range between 20 and 50 people per annum, but until the numbers 
entering the Jobs Option from the Gateway can be clarified, this will be difficult to determine. 
This approach 
              would result in New Deal employees being part of the permanent establishment 
and would clearly define the extent of Council support for the programme. 

A report from the Personnel Services Division outlining progress made and issues of concern is 
attached at Annex I to this report.The Committee may wish to indicate its preferred approach in 
principle and require a detailed report on the arrangements for implementation to be proposed 
                                                                                             for 
the consideration of the next meeting of the Personnel Services Committee. 

## Full Time Education And Training Option

A consortium has been established to manage this Option, on which the Council is represented by the Education Department. In view of its existing contracts for delivery of national training schemes, the lead contracting agency will be LDA. The consortium is currently undertaking an audit of potential education and vocational training providers including the Lanarkshire Further Education Colleges. Again a wide range of opportunities will require to be made available to participants who progress into this Option. 

## Voluntary Sector Option

A bid has been submitted for the management of the Voluntary Sector option by the national umbrella agency Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations on behalf of a consortium consisting of a number of small organisations in Lanarkshire. This was necessary as there was no Lanarkshire based voluntary agency in a position to take on the contract. 

The Council has no direct involvement in this Option, although given its role in supporting the voluntary sector, the Community Development Sub-Committee has approved a small contribution towards funding the development costs of the consortium in this area, in conjunction with South Lanarkshire Council and LDA. 

## Environment Task Force

The design guidelines suggest that local authorities are best placed to lead this New Deal Option 
in view of their role in environmental strategy and implementation. 
                                                                  Within the partnership context, 
it was proposed that the Council assume responsibility 
                                                      for the ETF contract delivery for the 
Lanarkshire area. A Section 56 Agreement under the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 
                                                                                             was 
signed between North and South Lanarkshire 
                                              Councils to formalise this arrangement. Tender 
documents were submitted by 20 February to the ES Scotland by the Planning and Development 
Department 
            which has the leading role in the management and delivery of the ETF. An extract of 
the main elements along with copy of the Section 56 Agreement are appended at Annex II to this 
report. 

The bid submitted to ES by the Council was qualified by a number of deletions and amendments 
to the standard contract clauses, which after detailed consideration by Legal Services were felt to 
be an essential to the protection of the Council's interests. It is expected that prior to any contract 
being finalised, tender negotiations will take place, and indeed ES suggest that even after this 
stage, the details of the contract will be open to negotiation by the Council. As yet, there has 
been no response to the bid. 

The Council has in the meantime established a Consortium, membership of which comprise key 
strategic/ funding organisations such as the local authorities, LDA and Scottish Homes, national 
and regional environmental policy development agencies such as Foward Scotland, Energy 
Action Scotland, CSV Environment, and finally representation from delivery agencies such as 
Wisestart and Central Scotland Countryside 
                                         Trust. It is proposed 
                                                            that a conference is held in 
April/ May to which all the potential delivery agencies will be invited to discuss the development of 
appropriate projects and placements. 
                                   Whilst the Gateway needs to be in place by the beginning, 
of April, because of the four month period which participants will experience, it is not anticipated 
that ETF placements will be required until July/ August. 

A series of internal practical issues are in the process of being investigated 
                                                                              by the Planning and 
Development Department including the management and administration of the ETF within the 
Council, and the involvement 
                               and co-ordination of departments' input into the process. This will 
be the subject of a separate report to the Planning Committee in due course. 

## Conclusion

Although the commencement date for New Deal is imminent and much remains to be done by the partnership to ensure the delivery arrangements are complete, significant progress has already been made, and it is anticipated that the deadline will be met. 

## Recommendations

It is recommended that the Committee 

1) note the content of the report 

2) homologate 
                 the submission of a tender for the Environment Task Force in Lanarkshire and the 
signing of the related Section 56 Agreement with South Lanarkshire 
                                                                               Council 

3) homologate 
                 the Section 56 agreement in which South Lanarkshire 
                                                                                  Council agrees to assume 
contractual responsibility for the delivery of the Gateway in both North and South Lanarkshire 
Council areas 

4) agree in principle to the Council becoming a direct employer for New Deal clients and instruct 
that a full report on the numbers and implementation 
                                                             arrangements is made to the next meeting 
o
 f
  
  the Personnel Services Committee 

For further information contact Simon Carey in the Policy Unit on extension 2362. 

## New Deal Employer Option Introduction

Under the Government's New Deal Initiative, 4 options are provided for clients. 
                                                                                 The 
Employer Option, as previously reported to Committee, is one in which the Council has 
agreed to participate as an employer. 

The provisions for this Option relate to:- 

18 - 24 year olds who have been unemployed for 6 months or more 
25 year olds and over who have been unemployed for 2 or more years 

The Council, as employer, would attract a f60 per week subsidy for the 18 - 24 year old 
group; a 275 per week subsidy for the 25 year old and over group; the duration of the 
subsidy being 6 months. In addition, the employer would receive a 2750 fee to enable clients 
to undertake a vocational qualification. 

The obligation as employer is to provide a permanent job, accompanied by 1 day off-the-job 
training, such training for 6 months. 

## Issues As Emdover

1. 
Range and nature of vacancies 
2. 
Volume of vacancies available 
3. 
Matching of clients to available vacancies 
4. 
Reconciling legal obligations of the employer with quota approach 
5 .  
Role of Council Departments 
6. 
Geographical spread of vacancies 
7. 
Co-ordination, oversight and monitoring 

## Range And Nature Of Vacancies

Commitment as employer to the Government's New Deal Initiative is set against budgetary restraints on the Council, such constraint including the potential for a recruitment embargo. 

The Volume and range of vacancies may thus be curtailed compared with previous years, providing reduced scope for New Deal clients. 

Available vacancies may not be relevant to New Deal clients if the specific job requirements in regard to qualifications andor experience exceed those of clients. 

There is thus a potential for available vacancies to be limited to manual, unskilled posts. 

## Reconcilinp The Council'S Legal Oblifations With A Quota Approach

The Council is unlikely to create specific new jobs to cater for the New Deal Scheme and would rely on vacancies as the means of take up of New Deal clients. 

As employer, however, the Council is, at law, required to appoint on merit, making it difficult to effect positive discrimination in favour of New Deal clients, compared with other job applicants. 

Designating vacancies solely for New Deal clients and appointing clients directly - as a policy of positive action - could lead to - challenge under equal opportunities legislation by non New Deal job applicants. 

The Council could take two approaches to address this problem:- 

1. 
Advertise its vacancies in the normal way but guarantee an interview to New Deal clients who 
meet the requirements of the job. This approach is similar to the arrangements for job 
applicants with a disability. 
2. 
The second approach would rest on the assumption that New Deal clients require further 
assistance in the acquisition of qualifications, skills and experience, resulting in the 
identification of vacancies suitable to New Deal clients and recruitment from that category 
exclusively, on a time dated, temporary basis of 6 months. With training and support, New 
Deal clients would then assimilate into the job on a permanent basis after this 6 months 
training period. The contractual and remuneration provision, if this approach is endorsed, 
~ 
would require to be acceptable to the Employment Service. 

## Role Of Council Departments

The Council's Service and Central Departments would require to identify available vacancies suitable for New Deal clients and to allocate posts consistent with the 6 months training component. A total of some 30 - 40 posts would require to be so allocated. 

The geographical spread of the Council's operations - and vacancies at any one time - will influence the distribution of New Deal clients and require careful co-ordination as well as forward planning. It would be essential to establish the home base of clients, for implications for travel to work, and the location of vacancies. to effect assimilation of clients to vacancies. 

## Co-Ordination

The Employer Option has been channelled via the Council's Department of Administration and it is expected that the Department's Personnel Services Division would co-ordinate the details of vacancies and matching arrangements of clients. In addition, the Division would co-ordinate the initial training programme, induction, and day release programme for college attendance of clients and the arrangements for reclamation of grants and fees. 

The Council, under the Employer Option provisions, requires to determine if- 

1. 
It wishes to advertise its vacancies in the normal way and provide guaranteed interviews to 
New Deal clients, on a competitive basis with non New Deal applicants 
or 

2. 
Recruit to vacancies from the New Deal Client Group on a temporary basis of 6 months, as a 
positive action programme, subject to agreement with the Employment Service. 

## Contracts With Employment Services : Reciprocal Sectioy 56 Agreemest

North Lanarkshire Council (XLC) and South Lanarkshire Council (SLC). local authorities incorporated under and in terms of the Local Government etc (Scotland) Act 1994 whose principal offices are at Civic centre. Mothenveli ML 1 1TW and at Council Buildings. Almada Street. Hamilton ML3 OAA respectively hereby agree under and in terms of section 56 of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 that: 
(1) XLC shall act on behalf of SLC for the purpose of submitting a tender, entering into and subsequently operating an "Environment Task Force" contract with the Employment Service under the government's S e w  
Deal programme, to operate as the lead authority in a consortium being established for the purposes of performing th;t contract in Xorth and South Lanarkshire; 
( 2 )  
SLC shall participate in the aforesaid consortium: 
(3) SLC shall act on behalf of NLC for the purpose of submitting a tender, entering into and subsequently operating a " 
Gateway" contract with the Employment Service under the government's S e w  Deal programme. 10 
operate as the lead authority in a consortium being established for the purposes of performing that contract in North and South Lanarkshire; 
(4) NLC shall participate in the aforesaid consortium: 
(5) Each authority may appoint such representatives or delegate responsibiiity to such persons as each may deem appropriate from time to time for any purpose connected with or arising from the aforesaid tenders and proposed contracts; 
(6) Notwithstanding the date or dates of signature hereof, this agreement shall take effect as from 9am on Friday 
20 February 199s and 
(6) This agreement may be varied by written agreement of the Councils. or terminated by either of them upon three months notice in writing to the other. 

I
s
  
 WImESS KHEREOF these presents typewritten upon this page are sealed with the common seal of Konh 
Lanarkshire Council and signed by one of their proper officers. Ronald Thomson. Chief Solicitor ((Propem and 
Commercial) at Mothenvell upon the Twentieth day of Febiuary 1998. and sealed with the common seal of Sourh 
Lanarkshire Council and signed by one of their proper officers. k z e l  Lahzon, Contrzcts,/Litigation S b g e r  
at Hamilton 
       upon the 
             Twentieth 
                   day of F e b w  
                             1
                             %
                              8
                                

## Delivering The Environment Declaration By Tenderer

declare I am returning the following documents: 

1 
1 1 
1 
D 
New Deal Tender Proposal Form Part 1 
New Deal Tender Proposal Part 2A/B/C/D/E (delete as appropriate) 
Equal Opportunities Policy (or statement of arrangements that demonstrates compliance with the 
legislation and contract) 
Health & Safety Policy (or statement of arrangements that demonstrates compliance with the 
legislation and contract) 
Financial & Legal Information (as requested) 
D 
Price Schedule(s) 
1 
Qualifications of tender documents 
UME OF SIGNATORY ........... 
.,..!.%? 
.... 
*
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!
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.. .!eb?.w... 
... 
POSITION 
ORGANISATION ...................................................................................... 
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# QuWrjWc, ~ w W S - m = m b s 3  
SIGNATURE .............................. 
............................................... 
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DATE ....................................... 
.............................................. 
1
9
 
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## 7 Nt T D Nt

On behalf of and as authorised by North Lanarkshire Council, I hereby qualify and amend the various contract documents issued on behalf of the Employment Service (herein "the ES") by letter dated 21 December **1997** to the Director of Planning and Development of North Lanarkshire Council (herein "NLC") 
; 
the duly completed tender documents submitted hereP-iL, and the contract conditions referred to herein are subject to and qualified by the following terms and conditions, namely- 

## Document 2 - New Deal Notice To Tenderers - Cont Ract Reference Lanetf

1. In Paragraph 14 after "Unless otherwise stated by the tenderer, tenders shall remain valid for three months from t,he 
closing date 
              ..." 
                  insert "( However, both post-tender negotiation to improve upon the terms of the proposed contract, as veil 
as post-contract negotiations, shall be undertaken at the request of either the ES or NLC; and NLC may seek to either V
                                                                                                                                                  L
                                                                                                                                                   ?
                                                                                                                                                    
the contract by agreement with the ES , a 
                                                    NLC may terminate the contract if at any time NLC should deem it impossible 
to recover the costs arising from operating the contract.)" 

2. In Paragraph 24 one criterion refers in effect to NLC's "previous relevant experience and reliability in providing this t)'p 
of service". Since the "service" will comprise the management of, and lead role in a consortium on behalf of the ES, and 
that such a "service" is entirely new, that criterion shall be deleted and it is understood that NLC's tender must not be 
evaluated by reference to that particular criterion, 
                                                                                                                   - 

3. In Paragraph 27 it says "All information supplied by the ES 
                                                                              to you should be treated as commercial in confidence and 
should not be disclosed to third parties 
                                                ....." That restriction shall be held to be deleted insofar as it is referable to the 
discussion of the documentation which has been and will be taking place between officers of the ES, COSLA, Councils ark 
various other bodies which are or may be involved in providing services. 

4. The information as submitted on the New Deal Tender Proposal Forms with the tender may be up-dated by or on behalf 
of NLC at any time after the closing date for submission of tenders and/or after the contract has been awarded. 

## Document 8 - Financial Provisions

5. In respect of Paragraph 3 : 
ES shall specify which charges they approve in relation to New Deal participants for discussion in post-tender negotiations and before awarding the contract. 

6. In respect of Paragraph 4 : it is understood that the "fixed prices" in the tender may be described as set percentages of different types of projects. 

7. In Paragraph **7.1** in line 2, after "claims" there shall be inserted "within not more than six months". 

8. Both sub-paragraphs 7.4 
and **7.5** shall be deleted. 

9. In Paragraph **8.2** , delete "ES's funds", substitute "funds transferred to them by the ES". 

10. Paragraph 9 shall be deleted. 

11. In Paragraph **12,** add at the end of the sentence "(but recognising that, if an interruption is due to the act or omission of the ES, then the ES 
shall be liable for payment of fees despite that interruption)." 

12. Add at the end of Paragraph 14 : 
                                         Notwithstanding the foregoing, NLC shall be entitled to payment by the ES in 
respect of partial achiev'ement of outputs Dro rata 
                                                             to the proportion of such partial completion as may be 
demonstrated by NLC. 

## Document 10 - Pricing Schedule

13. This document may be updated or amended by NLC by agreement with the ES at any time after the date for submissior. 

of the tender and after the contract has been awarded: declaring that if NLC considers that a satisfactory agreement in thz: 
regard cannot be reached, then NLC may terminate the contract upon three months' notice. 

## Document 12 - Legal And Financial Information

13A. It must be noted that, as most of this document is inapplicable to local authorities, it has been completed only in part. 

14. At page 5, line 13 after "plans already agreed with ES" insert "and which are appended as a scheule to the contrx: 
documents agreed between the ES and NLC". 

15. At pages 4 and 5 at appropriate parts of the interpretation clause, in alphabetical order, insert :- 

""notice, notification , 
direction'' communications must be effected in writing: in an emergency, any notice, notification 
or direction may be transmitted by any appropriate means, but must be confirmed as 
soon as possible afterwards in writing" 
""Partner" /"Contractor" /"NLC" 
North Lanarkshire Council, Civic Centre, Motherwell ML1 ITW" 
""region" 
North Lanarkshire together with such other areas in respect of which the Partner from 
time to time may enter into agreement with any other local authority in furtherance of 
the purposes of this contract under and in terms of section 56 of the Local Government 
etc. (Scotland ) Act 1973" 
""Sub-contractor'' 
any person, body or organisation with whom the Contractor has concluded a contract 
for the provision of services in furtherance of the purposes of this contract" 

15A. In respect of paragraph 2.2 after "expire" add "notwithstanding the foregoing, the Partner may refuse to accept an extension of the contract and by virtue of such refusal, the contract shall then expire at the date originally set for its termination." 
16. In respect of paragraph 3.2, if the guidance to be produced by the ES is deemed unacceptable by NLC then KLC may terminate the contract upon 28 days' notice. 

17. In respect of paragraph 3.4, the ES must consult NLC before seeking to change the "general and specific targets set by ES from time to time" and if any such change should be deemed unacceptable by NLC then NLC may terminate the contract upon 28 days' notice. 

18. Before the commencement of the contract and at the same time in each succeeding year for the duration of the contract the ES shall provide their best estimate to NLCof the likely maximum number of participants in respect of the year to come. 

19. Paragraph 4.2 shall be deleted. 

20. In paragraph 5.1 at line 3, insert "reasonable" before the word "satisfaction". At the end of paragraph 5.1, insert "It is declared that if NLC should consiider it impractical to recover its costs in respect of the operation of this contract, then NLC 
may terminate it upon 28 days' notice." 
21. In paragraphs 6.1, 6.2 and 6.3, in the last sentence of each sub-paragraph delete "reasonable": after "endeavours" insert 
"which the Partner deems reasonable". 

22. In paragraph **6.2** after the first sentence insert "The ES shall consult the Partner regarding any proposed changes to such rules and regulations."; after the final sentence insert "Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the Partner should deem such changes to be unacceptable, then the Partner may terminate the contract upon 28 days' notice." 
23. In paragraph **7.2,** delete the second sentence. 

24. In paragraph **7.4** in the first line, delete "promptly", after "comply" insert "appropriately"; and after "reasonable" insen 
"written". In the second line, after "Manager" insert :- "insofar as competently based upon and necessarily related 10 
performance of this contract". 

25. In paragraph **7.5** in the last sentence, after "Partner" insert :- 
"insofar as it reasonably can,". 

26. In paragraph 8, the first form of wording should be used, but the final sentence thereof shall be deleted. 

27. Paragraph **9.1** shall be deleted. 28. Paragraph **9.3** shall be deleted. 

- 

29. Paragraph 11 
                   should be entitled "Exchange of information". In the second-last line after "which" insert :- 
                                                                                                                      "either of them 
reasonably considers". 

30. Paragraph 12.1 shall be deleted. 

31. Paragraph 12.2 shall be deleted. 

32. In paragraph 12.3, delete "pay the utmost regard to the principles of fair and open competition" and substitute :- 
                                                                                                                              "comply 
with any relevant legislation as well as the Partner's own financial regulations and standing orders on contracts". 

33. In paragraph 13.1, in the third line, delete "high". Delete the whole of the final sentence. 

34. In paragraph 13.2.1. after "Partner", delete "promptly" and substitute :- "not less than 28 days after receipt of written 
notice in this regard". At the end, add :- 
                                           "and any dispute may be referred to arbitration by either party." 

34A. Paragraph 13.2.2. 
                     shall be deleted. 

35. Paragraph 14 shall be deleted. 

36. Paragraph 15 shall be deleted. 

37. In paragraph 16.3 in the last line, after "cancelled" add ", providing the Partner has prior knowledge of any potential 
alteration or cancellation." 

38. Paragraph 17 shall be deleted. 

39. In paragraph 18.3 in line 1, delete "immediately" and substitute "on being notified". 

40. In paragraph 19.1 in line 2, delete "as ES considers necessary" and substitute :- 
                                                                                          "which the Partner possesses". 

41. Paragraph 19.4 shall be deleted. 

42. Paragraph **20.1** shall be deleted. 

43. In paragraph **21.2** in line 1, after "returns", insert :- 
"in respect of the Programme and". 

44. Paragraph **22.1** shall be deleted. 

45. Paragraph **23.2** shall be deleted. 

46. Paragraph **23.3** shall be deleted. 

47. Paragraphs 24.2 
and **24.3** shall be deleted. 

48. Paragraph **25.1** shall be deleted. 

49. In paragraph **25.2** in line 1, delete "ES", substitute "either party".; in lines 2 and 3, delete *I ' . . .*  without the need to give any reason for the termination." and delete the second sentence. 

50. Delete paragraph 25.4 and substitute therefor " In the event of a material breach of this Agreement by either party, the 
other party shall notify the party in breach, giving reasonable opportunity to remedy such breach. If such breach is nor 
remedied within a reasonable period, either party may refer the matter to a mutually agreed independent arbiter. If 
                                                                                                                       such 
arbitration should fail to resolve the issue, then either party may terminate the contract upon one month's 
                                                                                                              notice 
                                                                                                                        in 
                                                                                                                             t h x  
regard." 
                                                                                                      - 

51. In paragraph 26.2 in line '1, 
                                   delete "no cost to", substitute "the expense of". In line 4, delete "all reasonable 
endeavours", substitute "such endeavours as the Partner deems reasonable". 

52. In paragraph 26.3 i
                       n
                         line 1, delete "(without limitation)". 

53. In paragraph 26.4 in line 1, after "which" insert "insofar as the Partner understands any relevant facts and 
circumstances," 

54. Paragraphs 27.1, 27.2 
                           and 27.3 shall be deleted. 

55. Paragraph 27.4 
                    shall be deleted. 

56. In paragraph 28 in line 3, delete "either". In lines 3 and 4 delete "or under any other contract with ES or with 
any other department or agency of Her Majesty's Government." 

57. At the end of paragraph 29 add "The aforesaid charters are appended hereto for ease of reference." 

58. Paragraph 31 shall be deleted. 

59. In paragraph 34 in line 2, after "Partner" insert "and ES".In line 3, after "ES" insert "and the Partner 
respectively". 

60. In paragraph 36 in line 1, after "ES", insert "or the Partner". 

61. Paragraph 37 shall be deleted. 

62. It is understood that each of the foregoing qualifications may be the subject of negotiation with ES prior to the conclusion of a contract with NLC. 

63. For the avoidance of doubt, it is hereby expressly declared that this bid is being submitted by North Lanarkshire 
Council, with the agreement of South Lanarkshire Council, for the performance of the proposed contract in both 
North and South Lanarkshire. 
(Date) 
      ......... 
            L
             9
              
               .... 
                 Wa?way.\35& 
                                    ...... 
                                        . 
(Signed) 
        .... 
           1
              c
                .
                 -
                   
                            .......... ...... 
                                         Director of Planning and Development, North Lanarkshire Council 

## New Deal Tender Proposal Form - Part 1

PO Box 14 
Motherwell Planning and Development Department 

## Location(S) Covered By Proposal

The unit o f delivery for Lanarkshire, which has been agreed by partners, follows the boundary of rhe Local Enterprise Company (Lanarkshire Development Agency) and coincides with the boundaries o f the two Local Authorities (North and South Lanarkshire). Lanarkshire is a the core o f Central Scotland, located mia'way between Glasgow and Edinburgh. 

It is an extensive area stretchingfrom Cumbernauld to Douglas, an area o f
 225,000 hectares. A map ofthe area is attached. 

0 Please answer **all** questions. 
0 All tenders to be completed in typescript, or using capital letters. 
If there is not enough room for your answer, please continue on a separate sheet and attach it to 
this form. 
0 Where there are tick boxes, please tick the one that applies. 
0 You may reproduce this form on your own systems, however the format, sequence and wording 
must not be altered - any changes may render the form invalid. 
Please ensure that you attach all information requested by the ES - incomplete proposals may 
not be evaluated. 

New Deal: 
         Delivering 
                   the Environment 
                                    Taskforce in 
                                                Lanarkshire 
Map showing location 
                     of Lanarkshire 
                                   in 
                                      Scotlandl 

## A. Organisation 1. Please Provide A Pen Picture Of Your Organisation

i.e. 
Type of organisation, details of relevant experience (where possible you should 
include information on the level of performance achieved) and an outline of the 
organisational structure that will apply to the delivery of New Deal. If delivery is 
through a Consortium or a Joint Venture Partnership please show how the links will + 
exist. 

## I) Consortium Membership, Structure And Communication Proposals For Placement Providers

The Environment Task Force contract for Lanarkshire will be held by North Lanarkshire Council on behalf o f a consortium o f relevant organisations. A separate minute of agreement will be developed between North and South Lanarkshire Councils to enable a single contract o f delivery for the Lanarkshire New Deal area. 

The consortium is anticipated to include:- 
Public sector agencies - North Lanarkshire Council, South Lanarkshire Council, the Lanarkshire Development Agency and Scottish Homes Key voluntary/environmental sector organisations - Central Scotland Countryside Trust, Forward Scotland, C W  
Environment and IViseStart. 

Private sector organisations - Scottish Power Learning and the Lanarkshire Environmental Business Forum. 

This consortium has been constructed to provide a range of key advice including:- 

0 
specialist knowledge of environmental issues 
0 
project development and delivery 
0 
leverage funding 
0 
linkage to local strategies 
The consortium will meet on a regular basis to review all aspects ofthe delivery and development o f the ETF in Lanarkshire. It will report, via North Lanarkshire Council, to the Lanarkshire New Deal Strategic Partnership as detailed in the agreed District Delivery Plan. 

The consortium will establish a framework to enable organisations who meet the quality standards detailed to bid to provide individual ETFplacements. A range o f mechanisms will ensure that all interested organisations will have the opportunity to become involved in project delivery. To date, the consortium has circulated a briefing note to all organisations which have expressed a general interest in the New Deal. 

This provided an update on developments, and invited organisations to nominate whether they wish to be included on the specific ETF mailing list. It is also intended to hold a semintrr in AprilMay 1998 to consider overall progress, further network development and the longer term strategic direction ofthe Lanarkshire ETF. 

## Ii) Pen Picture O F Consortium Members

North Lanarkshire Council (Contract holder) - is the statutory local authorih, for hlorth Lanarkshire as established by the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1994. It provides a range of statutory and discretionary services and functions relevant to ETF deliven, including - Plnnning, Economic Developnient, 

## A. Organisation (Cont)

Housing, Vocational and Pre- Vocational Training, Community Development, Education, Leisure and Recreation Provision, Social Work Services, Roads and Transportation, etc. 

South Lanarkshire Council - is the sister local authority to North Lanarkshire which provides a similar range of services in the southern part o f Lanarkshire. 

Appendix A contains pen pictures o f some o f the organisations who have supplied information to complete this tender. These are only some o f the bodies who would be involved in the overall delivery o f the Environment Task Force. It is the aim o f the Strategic Partnership in Lanarkshire to be as inclusive as possible and therefore many other organisations will contribute a range of high quality placements. 

Further information on the structure for delivery is outlined in Section B Contract Management. 

## 2. Quality Standards -

Has your organisation or any of the Consortium organisations achieved, or is working towards, a nationally recognised Quality Standard? 

YES TJI 
If YES please give details of the organisation and the Quality Standard involved. 

Vorth Larrarkshire Council is working towards its Best YaluePlan. Investigations are underway to determine the most zppropriate quality standard to be adopted, probably EFQM North Lanarkshire Council, on behayof the Environment Task Force, is participating in the Quality Standards Task Group set up to investigate and develop quality standards icross the delivery o f all the Options o f the **New** Deal. 

Fooutlr Lanarkshire Council has a wide range of relevant qwalih, standards related to the range o f services and irnctions detailed **iri** Q.AI. The Council i s also working towards achieving Investors in People status across all Services. The pilot service to introduce this (Personneo is currently being assessed and, if-this is successjiitl, a rollout z-ogramme will be developed to achieve IIP throughout the authority. The Council is also currently investigation the 
*elative merits o f complementing IIP with either SQMS or EFQM. A decision on the preferred standard will be made 
:hortly. In addition, the Council has considerable experience in developing multi agency fiinding packages relevant to 
?TFprojects, and has worked closely with voluntary sector organisations to deliver employment and training projects 
.elated to environmental improvements. The authority also has a **key** local strategic role, with relevant strategies elated to economic, social and environmental development, and the lead role in the production ofbcal Agenda 21. 

## B. Contract Management

1. 
State who will have overall management responsibility for each of the options 
and show their position within the organisation or the Consortium. 
North Lanarkshire Council will be the lead organisation in the delivery of the Environment Task Force in Lanarkshire. The Director o f Planning and Development Ptanley C. Cook) will be responsible for the daib management o f the Option. The expertise for the management o f a placement is spread across the Department. The Economic Development Unit Manager : 
Maureen McConachie) is involved in all aspects o f New Deal and has expertise in managing and monitoring induction training; training programmes; 
personal and social development support; 
jobsearch and European Funding. 

The Planning and Transportation Division (Head o f
 *Service* : 
Grahame Lawson) has expertise in monitoring projects and sourcing funding through the Performance Monitoring section Manager : 
Jim Kerr) and identifiing suitable environment projects through the Planning section Manager : 
Phi1 Gaunt). The Department has existing contact with many o f the other organisations who will be involved in the implementation of ETF and is, therefore, well placed to co-ordinate information. For the purposesof this tender the co-ordinating officer has been Cathy Johnston, Assistant Service Manager in the Planning section. It is anticipated that asteering Group o f officers fYom North Lanarkshire, South Lanarkshire, other delivery organisations and funding partners will be established to report to the Strategic Partnership and develop the implementation o f the ETF in Lanarkshire. 

2. 
Fully describe the management role and activities undertaken to monitor and 
manage the quality of the service which will be provided. 
North Lanarkshire Council, by working through an Environment Task Force Steering Group, will:- 

0 
0 
Promote the New Deal programme and the Environment Task Force in particular 
Seek bids 
from organisations who can offer ETFplacenient 
- - 
evaluate delivery organisations and manage sub-contract agreements 
evaluate projects and placements, monitoring o
f
 induction, 
jobsearch, personal and social 
development support, training 
provision, work experience, administrative and 
financial systems 
0 0 
0 
Establish afvamework for quality assurance in conjunction with other New Deal Options through the 
Quality Standards Task Force set up in Lanarkshire 
Co-operate with other organisations in increasing general opportunities 
for the Environment Task 
Force 
Seek support 
from 
possible funding sources and help others do the same 
Evaluate progress on the Environment Task Force and aa'vise the Strategic Partnership o
f
 developments 

## 3 . How Much Time Will Be Allocated To The Management Of The Contract?

hitialb, by necessity, existing staff resources will be diverted into setting up procedures, processes and ystems to manage, monitor and deliver the Environment Task Force. As these systems develop less time will be required to maintain them nt an appropriate level. Some systems are likely to be jointly developed with other options as time progresses to avoid duplication o f stafftinie in particular administrative and financial systems. 

## B. Contract Management (Cont) Quality Plan

Please complete the Quality Plan on the following page(s). 

The Quality Plan should identify those aspects which you consider critical to the successful performance of all the elements and should explain the way in which your organisation intend to manage and monitor them. 

Your plan should, as a minimum, show systems for checking the performance of the Contract in the following areas: 

client referral and induction processes; 
0 
administration - to include provision of management information; 
0 
Performance - achievement of outputs; 
0 
compliance with specification(s) - to include arrangements to gather and react to client 
feedback; 
0 
health and safety - including arrangements for sub-contracted provision if appropriate; 
jobsearch; 
0 
staffing - to include absence management. 
We have a strong commitment to performance and quality in New Deal and we expect the same from our partners. If your tender is successfU1, the information given in the Quality Plan will form part of your Contract with the Employment Service. 

## Restricted Commercial Quality Plan

Monitoring Frequency 
Monitoring Process 
Critical Siiccess Factor 
Monitored By 
Remedial Action (if 
required) 
Each sub-contractor monitored 
ratrdonily and by wriiteti reports 
NLC - provider will ntoriiior sribcotilraclor 
Clietri **refinal** and indticiion 
process - it 
f o n d  
pariicipatit 
Provider nroriiiors sribconiractor in 
relatioti io each participant. 
I<arrdonr 
visiis 10 sub-coniracior, 
wvitierr reports by sub-cotiiractor 
Sub-contractor evahated. I f  
required alienraiive indrtction 
provider established. Sirbcoritracior 
nray **lose** ETF stairis 
As above 
As **ubove** and **011** application by 
srtb-corrtractor 
If 
snb-corrtracior 
fails to niaitrtain 
or establislr **eflcieril** aclnrin 
procedrrre. NLC nray wiilrdraw 
HTFstaiiu 
Each sub-coniracior will be 
rcqnired 10 **clenioirsiratc** systenrs us 
onilined by NLC prior io receiving 
BTF status 
/Is ab0\4? 
As artcl **wltcri** relevartt, i
.
e
.
 at **errd** of 
each **siage** and at oritput 
Each participant will be nroriitored 
at **erid** of each stage and ai oritpui. 
U'riiicir **reporis** to be provided 
Orifpiit 
restilts will be collated and 
evalriated. Poor petfomnrance will 
a 
be acceptablefionr srib- 
Conipliatice 
with specificutioti 
I contractor 
I 
Serioiis non-conrpliance 
will resttit 
As above 
in loss of sub-contract B'IFstuirrs 
~~ 
Rarrdonily (at **least** once per 
cotrtract). Reactively - to client 
fieclljack 
Coniplete 
a
r
i
d
 **ihoroitglt** nroniioririg 
will be carried orit **011** eaclr subcotrtracior 
Sub-cotrtracior will be nrotiiiored 
Ratidoml~~ 
arid reuctively 
cls above 
Serious H&S brcaclres will result 
in loss 
o
f
 ETF sintrrsJor sribconiractors 
10 etrs~rre 
conrpliance with 
regrrlcriiorrs 
Rarrclonrly **atid** reactively (also ai 
orrt~?lit) 
NLC (provider) 
will motiiior subcolltractor 
Qiraliw **cirrrl** qriatriiiy offircilities 
and nroterials 
clrecked 
Alientative facilities iderit 
fled 
for 
participarris. Sub-contraciors nruy 
lose ETF siatris 
As above 
At applicaiioti stage and rurrdonrly 
As above 
I 
Adeqriaie **siafitig** in ternis of 
project mnst be denrotisirated. 
Possible siaflabsetrce **mrisi** be 
addressed 

## C. Recruitment And Staffing

1. 
Detail the organisations recruitment systems, the criteria used in the selection of staff and 
the general timescales for recruitment. (If you have a Recruitment Policy please enclose) 
A copy of North Lanarkshire Council 's recruitment Policy is attached in Appendix B. 

Details o f recruitment policies submitted by other organisations are to be found in Appendix B . In the initial stages of New Deal existing staffwill be assigned to the administration and management o f the Environment Task Force. Selection of staffis likely to be linked to their involvement with other options of New Deal to ensure that Best Value is achieved. 

2. 
How will the staff involved in the delivery of New Deal be inducted, trained and developed 
within the organisation? 
Current training programmes for staffwill be adapted to provide appropriate training for New Deal as the initiative develops. 

This will be incorporated as a requirement for sub-contractors in any agreement. 

## D. Administration Please Detail The Processes And Systems Which Will Be Used To Maintain Effective Records 1. And Supply Management Information.

There will be two types of organisations sub-contracted to NLC 
- those able to deliver all elements ofETF and those able to deliver only some elements. NLC will, in conjunction with Steering Group members, devise an application form to be completed by an organisation wishing to be a delivery agent for ETF. The applications will be strictly evaluated based on the following criteria:- 

0 
Sustainable development objectives 
0 
Project Quality 
0 
Project Viability 
Delivery mechanism 
Outcomes 
costs Cornmunip Priority 
All forms will be input onto a database and updated as required. 

All delivery organisations will be actively monitored as required by ES detailed in the speclfication. 

## Administration - Manapement Information Svstems

Delivery organisations will be computer literate and experienced in this area. A database will be set up using appropriate software for the purpose of tracking and logging participants. Comprehensive spreadsheets will be devised and set **up.** These systems will allow accurate and timeous reports to be produced. 

## E. Mandatory Elements 1. Health A H 3  Safety

It is a requirement of this Contract that the successhl Contractor has a Health and Safety Policy. Please enclose a copy with your Tender. 

Health and Safety Policy enclosed 

## Accidents

What facilities will be provided for first aid and for the investigation recording and 
reporting of accidents? 

The provider will report accidents to the Lanarkshire District Office of Employment Services in accordance with the requirements of the Specification (schedule 5 para 10.3). 

## Equal Opportunities

It is a requirement of this Contract that the successfbl Contractor has an Equal Opportunities Policy. Please enclose a copy with your Tender. 

Equal Opportunities Policy enclosed. 

## 3. Disability Discrimination Act 1995 (Dda)

It is a requirement of this Contract that the successfbl Contractor carries out their responsibilities under the DDA. Please tick the box if you agree to this requirement. 

Contract will meet the requirements of the DDA. 

## E. Mandatory Elements (Cont) 4. Insurance

You will be required by this contract to obtain appropriate Insurance cover, to display a copy of certificates at the locatiods and to provide the Employment Service with details of the Policy on request. 

Do you agree to this requirement? 
YES 
L
l
 

## 5. Jobseekers Charter

You will be required to display a copy of the Jobseekers Charter poster, have Jobseekers Charter leaflets on display, acknowledge and answer complaints from clients within the required time limits and use name badgedplates for all staff. 

Do you agree with this requirement? 
YES 

## 6. Es Smoking Policy

In the interests of health and comfort, the ES has a Smoking Policy which requires Contractors to ensure that: 

unrestricted smoking is not allowed; 
wherever possible, designated areas are available at specified times for smokers; and where it is not possible to provide a smoking area, then a timetable of breaks where 
people can leave the building may be agreed with participants. 
Do you agree to this requirement? 
YES 

## E. Mandatory Elements (Cont) I 7. Data Protection Act 1984

It is a requirement of this contract that the successfbl contractor shall meet their obligations under the Data Protection Act, specifically being mindfd that it is unlawful to collect data for one purpose and then use it for another (unregistered) purpose. 

Do you agree to this requirement? 
YES 
- 

## 8. Fire Protection

If appropriate, you will be required to ensure that there is a current fire certificate for the premises and to provide the Employment Service with a copy on request. 

I 
n 
Do you agree to this requirement? 
YES 
p
J
 

## 9. Please Complete If This Is A Consortium Proposal.

Please detail the action you have taken to ensure that all interested organisations have had the opportunity to become involved with your Consortium. 

## New Deal Tender Proposal Form - Part 2C/D Part 2 B Opemtion Of The Option

This section requires details on how you will fulfil your role as a Provider as described in the key roles section of the specification. 

## Placementsfrojects

1. Describe the process you will use to identifjr 
work placements/projects and the criteria 
against which you will assess their suitability. 
The process o f identifiing potential placements/projects is underway. Potential contributors have beer contacted with an update ofprogress on the delivery o f the Environment Task Force and asked to registei interest (see Appendix E). These contributors will be invited to submit application forms giving details o d
 
their organisation and details of potential placements and projects. Both the organisation intending tc contribute and the potential placement will be assessed by criteria notifjed to the contributor. A $OM 
chart describing these processes is attached in Appendix G. An organisation will be judged on thc following criteria which have been developed in consultation with potential contributors and will link tc other options of New Deal, a) track record; b) financial stability; c) possession o f or commitment tc recognised quality standards; d/ ability to satisfi mandatory requirements (Health & Safety etc): e) abilio to meet monitoring criteria specifjed in the ES contract documentation. A placement/project will be evaluated by considering a) sustainable development objectives: b) Project/placement Quality; c, Project/placement viability: 
Delivery mechanism; e) outcomes; fl *costs;* g) 
community priority. These criteria are detailed in Appendix G. 

In collating information from many organisations for the purposes of completing this tender it has become apparent that some placements will be delivered through partnership working. Systems will need to be developed to assist potential providers to network and match needs. This will require co-ordination with other New Deal Options. Examples of current practice in existing organisations have been used as models to in form the emerging Environment Task Force, however, all organisations wishing to participate in the ETF will have an equal opportunity to apply to be approvedproviders. 

2. What types of placements/projects are you able to offer and how will they cater for the 
full range of participant needs identified in the Local New Deal Plan? 
A wide range of placements/projects is required which will be suitable for able-bodied, disabled, those with special needs and will be equally beneficial to either gender. 

Suitable programmes would include all aspects of the environment, particularly those which intprove quality of li$e and are locally based. This will include energy efficiency programmes, refurbishment programmes, community programmes, economic development programmes, as well as traditional environmental improvement programmes. 

Given that the link between areas with multiple deprivation and environmental decline are so strong, locally basedprojects are likely to assist the process to meet the needs of local clients. In this respect any local& based programmes operating under the auspices o f the ETF could have multiple objectives. These may include:- 

* improve housing conditions 
raise awareness and develop local knowledge of environmental matters such as energy conservation, local natural heritage, recycling, improved health and 
fitness 
record local assets 
involve the local community in decision making, building **upon** existing local knowledge 
improve the local environment by managing greenspace, planting woodland, building 
footpaths 
involve local clients i
n
 their area 

## Restricted Commercial

link to environmental education and existing volunteer action in the area The overall impact would be an improvement in the quality of life in communities through the provision 0
;
 
quality opportunities for local clients. 

All o f the selected projects should be compatible with sustainable development and fit with the aims ana objectives o f Local Agenda **21,** and could provide a substantial focus to delivering a Local Agenda 21 
Strategv. It would be appropriate to target known areas of need for example, North ibfothenvell, Orbiston, Cambusiang, etc, which will engender ownership ofprojects because they are carried out in the local area with, by and for local people. This will help to stimulate interest and overcome the barriers clients Inay encounter. 

I
t is important that a high qual@ work programme is developed where a close harmonious relationship can zxist between work providers and clients. 

r n addition to variety i n type o f progra??u?te consideration needs to be given to the range of skill levels fa 
?ach programme. Clients skill level may range front low skill through SVQ level 4 to graduate level. Abilitie nay range **from** those with special needs to able bodied clients. Programmes therefore need to be able t iccommodate a wide variety of individuals. 

- 
jee next page for a table o f potential programmes 

## Restricted Commercial

Potential Programmes:- 
Energy lmprovement 
- house insulation 
- energy conservation information - energy education 
Housing Refurbishment 
- back court improvements 
- common areas - grounds and,fionta,qes 
Transportation 
- cycling/cycle networks 
-footpath workw'rights 
of way 
- signposting 
- access survey 
- leaflet production - bridleways/multiuse 
paths 
Central Scotland Forest and countryside management 
- woodland planting and management 
- environmental maintenance fences, drainage, paths etc) 
- access 
- community projects (nature parh, residential 
gardens, town and village access areasj 
- 
practical conservation 
- Nature Reserves (plans & works) - School projects (wildlife, 
gardens etcj 
- Intervetation of preenmaces 
local Agenda 21 
- awareness raising/publicity - community 
participation/participatory 
appraisal 
- 
pilot projects 
- local sustainability indicators 
- Planning for Real 
Siodiversity 
- wildlife transect surveys 
- local recording, entering data on RECORDER - awareness raising/publicity - report production 
. , 
- habitat survevs 
Vaste Recovery 
- local recycling schemes 
- local composting 
pilot 
projects 
- awareness raising projects 
- waste minimisation 
. 
1
.
 
Environmental Education 
, .  
- ,  
- education packs 
. .  
-promotion'-'. 
- 
- local nature areas,,? - school grounds development 
Greening of vacant and derelict land 
Millennium Link Ravenscraig 
Environmental 
Apprenticeship 
PPA Q RPA projects 
Priority 
for Partnership Areas projects 
Regeneration Priori& 
Area nrojects 
Counttyside 
Access Initintives 

## Restricted Commercial 3, Describe How You Will Ensure That The Placements/Projects Make A Positive Contribution To Equal Opportunities Outlined In The Specification

North Lanarkshire Council, as one of the two lead organisations within the emerging ETF Consortium for Lanarkshire has developed a formal Equal Opportunities policy. The promotion of equality and the elimination of discrimination are legal requirements for every local author@ in the planning and delivery of their services. 

The Councils core policy statement is as follows: 
"North Lanarkshire Council is committed to ensure that every individual has the right to be treated wit1 
respect and fairness. 

The Council will not tolerate any discrimination in any form in breach of these principles and will takt positive action to counter discrimination both as an employer and provider of services. '' 
The Council's policy includes specific aims and intentions affecting both employment and service delivery The key element recognises the fact that the Council as the largest employer in the area intends to be a mode, D
f best practice. At its core, it will ensure that no service **user** or employee **should** receive less favourable beafment on any **grouna3** *including* s e x
,
 
race, **colour,** n&*onal&v, disabilily, age, **smualily,** marital status! 

religion, or political belief. 

- 
h order to implement the Council's Equal Opportunities objectives, it undertakes to develop a series of Code> 
3f Practice and related operational procedures. 

Specifically, as a Service Provider and amongst a range of other aspects of its implementation, the Councii 
,vill:- 
share good practice and distribute information amongst those with whom we work in partnership to helF 
eliminate discrimination I ensure that this policy is understood by organisations, groups and those seeking contracts I encourage all organisations funded by the Council to develop an Equal Opportunities policy. 

'n signing the contract as lead organisation within the proposed Lanarkshire Environment Task Force Zonsortiurn, North Lanarkshire Council will undertake to ensure that all agencies participating in the deliveo 
,f the Option will either provide proof of existing policy documents which demonstrate a similar level oj 
:ommitment, or will be willing to be a signatory to the Council's Equal Opportunities Policy produced tc nefect the requirements of the Environment Task Force specification. 7opies of the respective Equal Opportunities policy documents front North and South Lanarkshire Councils ilong with examples from other consortium members are attached at Appendix D. 

## Restricted Commercial Training

Describe how worthwhile Training towards an approved qualification will be 
4. 

Facilitated. 

4s broad a range of training as possible will be provided to participants from the approved list o J
 
pialifications (Scotthh version) asper Section 2 of the Further and Higher Education Act 1992 
4 number ofproviders will be engaged to offer the broadest selection of SVQs or 'units' 
o f SVQs from this zpproved l i s t
)
 operated on a pro-rata basis where the length of a placement is insufficient to allolt 
:omplefion of a full qualification. 

4 full potifolio o f potential providers will be made available to the Gateway following a thorough analysis S
y the Consortium leading the Full Time Education and Training Option. The Environment Task Force ieliverers will source this comprehensive 'directory' 
from which providers will be required to develop a laible menu of day release or block release approved training. 

rndividual training programmes will be based upon the Personal Action Plans developed by Personal ddvisers, and be agreed in conjunction with PAS and specialist support workers **from** Gateway irganisations where relevant.. 

## Restricted Commercial 5. Who Will Be Involved In The Delivery Or Accreditation Of Training?

As noted above, a list or directory of approvedproviders is in the process of development. 

All deliverers of training within the Environment Task Force will require to be SQMS *accredited* (c accreditation through a relevant awarding body such as City and Guilds where appropriate), or workin towards achievement of SQMS within 12 months. 

## 5. Describe The Arrangements That Are Already In Place.

Vorth Lanarkshire Council currently operates as an employer under the Skillseekers Programme. Its rraining Section within the Personnel function has established a Vs&em o f day release and block release 
7ocational training to support placement training and job experience. 

'n addition, a range of organisations anticipated to provide ETFplaces are already in a position to deliver iccredited training tvithin the parameters noted in Questions 4 and 5. 

Zurrent goodpractice to be found within the network of consortium and delivery agencies will be drawn ipon to assist in the preparation of a quality process through which participants tvill secure a positive and productive vocational element from the Environment Task Force. 

## Jobsearch 7. Describe The Support, Guidance And Resources That Will Be Available To Enable Participants To Carry Out Effective Jobsearch.

Jobsearch will be carried out as an integral part o f the placement. A number o f organisations will provide this element, two approaches are described below:- 
Existing locally based employment training initiatives amtisors will take on a support role and encouragr clients to build confidence and gain necessav skills required to secure employment. Working on a one-to-onr basis will allow Advisor and Client to form a trusting partnership, crucial in order to achieve targets. Tht programme will be easily adaptable, giving scope for use with clients of differing backgrounds. Element; 
shall include:- 

1. Creating a CV 
2. Accessing VacanciesJiurther training opportunities 
3. 
Letter writing 
4. Interview techniques 
5. Conjidence/Assertiveness 
Please refer to Appendix F 
for details. 

Currently MseStart trainees attend an in-house job club one dayhonth. Access to counsellors is available a, all times. This guidance is provided by one o f our sister companies through a programme of activity designec to develop skills and motivations in trainees that will allow them to compete in the jobs market when the) 
complete their training with WueStart. In a survey o f trainees carried out in August 1997, 61% of trainee2 
indicated they were completely or mostly satisjied with guidance programmes on offer. 

## 7A. How Will You Assess The Individual Jobsearch Needs Of Each Participant?

rhe individual needs w i l l
 
be assessed in conjunction with the client:- 
?xisting locally based employment initiatives offers a one-to-one counselling/interview session to enable a jackground of clients previous working experience/skills levels/personal skills and attributes to be assessed. 

This would enable a Training Needs Analysis **(TNA)** to be compiled in order that participant receives training 
'elevant to needs. Initially a participant will go through a Pre-Induction Assessment followed by the hduction leading onto the Personal **Action** Plan incorporating the TNA. 

## 3. How Will Links With Employers Be Developed?

Tmployment/In formation and Advice Officer at existing locally Sased employment initiatives will utilise 
?xisting company database to identifi and target prospective employers. The search will be specific an0 
ailored to each participant. Target employers will be informed that participants may be eligible for a varieQ 
fgrants, e.g. Employment Grant Scheme as well as the Training Assistance Grant Scheme. 

n addition to trainees' own approaches, providers will be expected to forge links with ernployers and the Tmploymen t Service. 

Jose links will be developed and maintained with other New Deal Options, particularly the Emplo~ver Option. 

## 9. Environmental And Community Benefit

Describe how environmental benefit on the Environment Task Force or community benefit on the Voluntary Sector Option will be identified, measured and monitored in placements and projects. 

Each project must have measurable outputs. A wide array o f realistic, quantifiable and achievable benefit will be agreed. These will be along the following lines dependent upon the nature of the project. 

Physical outcomes:- 
number of community 
facilities improve#established 
number of community groups supported 
numbers o
f
 households contactedlahised 
number of public meetings held 
square metres o
f
 
premises provided/refurbished 
number of households insulated 
hectares o
f
 woodland created 
hectares o
f
 land providedkenewed 
number of units create#refurbished 
length o
f
 walkwaykycleway created 
number o
f
 visitor attractions expanded 
number of energy audits completed 
number of eventshonferences organised 
f 
o
f
 investment in local economy 

etc., etc., 

Training outcomes:- 
number ofpositive outcomes in training 
number ofparticipants with disabilities 
number ofparticipants with special needs 
number ofparticipants from ethnic minorities 
number o
f
 participants demonstrating 
progress towards achieving targets 
Positive outcomesnumber ofparticipants into employment 
number ofparticipants with 
job offer 
number ofparticipants in employment after 6 months 
number ofparticipants into self-employment 
number ofparticipants into 
full time or 
further education 
number ofparticipants into voluntary (not 
paid) sector 

Monitoring of the project is integral to the process outlined in Appendix G, which demonstrates that regular reporting will be necessary. 

## (For Environment Task Force Option Only) 10. How Do These Benefits Complement And Fit The Environmental Objectives In Annex A Of The Environment Task Force Specification?

The benefits have been identified by closely relating them to the Government's Environmental Objectives for the hrew Deal in Scotland (Annex C o f the Specification). The application process identifjedfor the delivety O
J
 
the Environment Task Force in Lanarkshire requires the environmental beneft of a project to be clearly described. 

## Restricted Commercial

(For 
Voluntary Sector Option Only) 
1 1. Describe how you will ensure the involvement of Ethnic Minority Organisations as 
placement providers. 

## Health And Safety

12. Please outline how you will meet health and safety standards on placements and projects 
including:- 
a) your procedures for undertaking risk assessments; 
b) monitoring arrangements; 
c) supply of protective clothing; 
d) health and safety induction for Participants. 
North Lanarkshire Council has established a detailed Health and Safety Policy which has been designed t c
 
ensure that the authority takes all reasonably practicable steps to secure the health, safety and weIfare a work o f all its employees. The Council also acknowIedges its responsibilities in respect ofpersons other thai its own employees. It is from this fundamental position o f responsibility that the Council as one of the contrac holders within the Environment Task Force Consortium, will approach this important aspect o f ET1 
implementation. 

The Council will require all delivery agencies operating elements o f this Option to submit copies o f existins Health and Safety policies which will be appraised to ensure they meet current standards. 

- 
a) 
Risk Assessment Procedures Risk assessments will form an integral part o f the formal sub-contract arrangements established for delivery 4 
the Lanarkshire ETF. As part o f the formal contract documentation, providers will be required to complete c Health and Safety pro-forma which indicates how they will comply with the Councils requirements. Deliveq agencies will need to undertake risk assessments which identifi potential hazards, evaliinte the risks anc implement control measures to minimise these. 

The appraisal process **for** this aspect o f sub-contracting arrangements will be co-ordinated by the Council 
'2 
Health and Safe& Unit which will provide professional advice, guidance and recommendations. Detailed rid management procedures currently operated by the Council are attached at Appendix C (a) 
b) 
Monitoring Arrangements A s  contract holders and lead Consortium members, the Council where necessary will monitor projects an6 
placements to ensure that implementation meets the claims made in contract pro-formas and that the higlies, standards are achieved, and that appropriate action is taken to improve practice i f required. Appropriate arrangements will be made with individual projects reflecting nature of activity, length o f project and type oj placements. 

c) 
Supply of Protective Clothing Where protective clothing is ident$ed as a control measure, this will be provided by the delivery agencies in accordance with the Personal Protective Equipment Regulations 1992. 

## Health And Safety Induction For Participants

d) 
In addition to specific areas o f training, general induction training will be provided by the delivery agencies immediately on commencement o f a placement, and it should cover the basic health and safety needs of the participant including first aid procedures fire evacuation/entergency procedures risk assessment introduction/mvareness and where appropriate 

- control of substances hazardous to henlth (COSHH) assessments - manual handling assessments 
- display screen equipment assessments - noise at work assessments 

accident reporting procedures relevant control measures identgfied by the above assessments duties within Health and Safety legislation It is proposed that this process is facilitated by the development o f a specific Health and Safety element of a r
 
induction pack provided to all participants in the Environmental Task Force. 

Example information supplied by Wisestart:- 

## A Procedures For Undertaking Risk Assessment An Extract From The Company'S Health & Safely Policy Is Attached.

Risk assessments are prepared at the start o f each project by planning supervisor or qualified health anc safety **advisor** as appropriate. Contracts department staff prepares any additional assessments required a! 

projectsprogress. All assessments are held in site safety files on location under the control o f site supervisors, Attached is a copy o f
 "Principles o f Risk Assessment" and the Risk Assessment procedure employed it WseStarf. 

b Monitoring Arrangements In a survey carried out in August 1997, 86% of trainees were completely/most& satisfied that they were informed about the relevant Health and Safety information and 83% were completely/most& satis$ed with the effectiveness o f the procedures. 

In a staffsurvey carried out in September 1997, 86% 
o f staffsaid they were completely or mostly satisfied with availability o f Health and Safty information and that procedures are outlined to staffas required. 

Accident books are maintained for all sites, and the ofices, and are reviewed on a regular basis, Records oj reportable accidents and dangerous occurrences are reported in monthly MIS returnees for Personnel held bj HRO. 

Winutes front management meetings, contracts meetings and personnel meetings all contain details o f review 
3n health and safity as appropriate. The Health and Safev PoIicy and procedures are reviewed annually as G 
requirement of maintaining accreditation under SQMS. 

C 
Supply of protective clothing 
4t induction all **new** entrants are issued with hard hat, boilersuit,, waterproofs and boots. No charge is made Gr these items. 

## Health & Safety Induction For Participants

d. 

The induction for trainees includes, an introduction to The Wise Group and WseStarf outlining our goals ana zchievements; a breakdown o f the programme they wiII be put through; an explanation o f their contract oj 
5mployment; 
details o f KseStart's quality, health and safe& and equal opportunities policies; distribution oj 
"Be Safe '' booklet. Induction also includes a one day Health and Safety training course for learners providea 
5
y Henly Boot Training. The induction is completed by a visit to a typical WiseStarf environmental improvement site. 

## Support

13. Explain how you will ensure that Participants receive the necessary and appropriate 
support in all elements of participation: 
a) how many people will be involved in the delivery of each element? 
b) what procedures will be used for the recruitment, Training, induction and appraisal 
of personnel? 
c) how many of these people will you directly employ? 
d) how will you manage personnel you do not directly employ? 
4s part o f the process established to organise delivey, the Council will develop formal subcontraci irrangements which will clearly set out the expectations o f the Council in all aspects of placements including 
'he support element. As part o f its monitoring role, the Council will undertake to ensure that subcontracting rganisations provide high quality support services to participants, and that suitably experienced personnel ire engaged to deliver this aspect of the initiative where required. 

The following information from WseStart will act as a guide. 

- 
Vithin the **WseStart** we aim to have a stafltrainee ratio of 1.3. For off the job training, one trainer woula iormally have a group of 12 trainees. On the job, a supervisor would nontially manage 10 trainees. A 
:ampany organisation chart is attached. 

'ermanent staff are normally recruited in the open market (see ad7ertisement attached) although priority is riven to internal candidates. Trainees are all recruited through the Employment Service. Training toward 
;VQ level 2 is as outlined in sections **4-6** above. In addition, customised (specialised) training is sourced as 
*equired e.g. use of mini-excavators. Trainee progress is reviewed evely 12 weeks and for permanent stafJ 
'erforntance Appraisals are carried out in January each year, reviewed in July ofthe same year. At these rppraisals, duties and targets, including quality issues are clearly defined Ve employ 17permanent staff; average of 70 traineesheek, I40 
beneficiaries in the year, 

## What Steps Will You Take To Facilitate The Provision Of Additional Personal Siipport (Eg 13A 'Buddying') Where Appropriate?

North Lanarkshire Council has had sign flcant experience of running innovative approaches to reconnecting disengaged young people through its successful Youthstart programme in the Monklands area. The project ha> 
provided young unemployed people with mentoring, guidance, and initial training to assist 1
1
1
 -se particularl) 
disadvantaged to gain access to vocational training and qualijications, and to employment. 

The mentoring or 'buddying 
' support has played a large part in the success o f this project. I 
;?c evaluation O
j
 
the project has indicated that this aspect has proved particularly positive, and had a signifcc:?t effect on the motivation o f participants. Experience has suggested that the mentors, who were mature adiilts, establishea close bonds, and assisted the young people involved to identifL and **work** towards overcomirg problems thej experienced. 

The full outcome of this formal evaluation will be drawn on to help develop this aspect o f the pl-ogramme, 
;Mentors will be identified in partnership with Lanarkshire's existing volunteering bureau,. infrastructure, which includes the following agencies - *North Lanarkshire* S 
Local Volunteer Development Agency, Hamilton Veighbourhood Volunteer Project, Hamilton Volunteer Group, Blantyre Volunteer Group Stapgap (East Kilbride). Any opportunities to link mentoring and the proposed new 'iMillennium Volunteers initiative will dso be explored. 

Wisestart has recently introduced a mentoring programme whereby a member of staff (not :!le trainees line nanager) takes on the responsibility of mentoring 5-6 trainees. 

'n a trainee survey carried out in August 1997, 95% o f trainees indicated that they were conipletely or mostly iatisjied with the availability of additional support when required. 

1
4
 .
  
  Please provide person specifications for the posts where staff will have direct contact 
with Participants. 

?xamples ofperson specijications are attached in Appendix H. 

## Restricted Commercial Administration

15. Describe the processes and systems that will be in place to ensure the accuracy of recording of attendance, changes in Participant circumstances, fares payments, statistical returns, payment of participant's travel costs (allowance based participants only) and the prompt submission of appropriate information to the Employment Service. 

The processes cnd systems required to deliver the Environment Task Force will be kept under review as th( 
Option develop. 

Delivering organisations shall co-ordinate all administrative and record keeping systems for recording participant circumstances, They shall use a model similar to that which was recently used in a Pre-Vocationa, Social Care Course. The systems will include:- 

1. Trainee Registration Form 
2. 
Trainee Training Record 
3. Daily Time Sheet 
4. 
Travel Paywents Record 
5. Childcare Payment Record 
6. Work Placement Time Sheet 
7. Childcare Agreement Form 
Please re fer to Appendix 1
,
 
for examples of forms. 

The informatioii collected above will be collated and submitted to Employment Services, on the forms provided by them, in accordance with the Speclfication. 

## Restricted Commercial Wage Payments

16. If appropriate describe the processes that will be in place to ensure the accurate and 
prompt payment of Participant wages. 
Experience on existing projects demonstrates that different approaches may be required in differeni zircumstances. 

4n analysis of existing circumstances is given below: 
1. Cambuslang and Rutherglen Prospects for Employment Wendance records are passed to a local firm of accountants who process these and run the payroll. 

payment is made by cheque, issued and signed for at a weekly meeting. 

## Tomm Ents

The payroll system works well with the accountants, however, the payment by cheque is inconvenient for stafl 
'ime consuming etc. but other options explored (eg. bank transfer) were not viable because the client group iidn 't have bank accounts, raised real issues in relation to partners having access to earnings etc. 

- 
2. East Kilbride Youth Challenge Project lttendance records are processed and the payroll is run through the Glasgow Council for Voluntaw Service. 

payment is made by cheque evety Friday morning, issued through the local Community Education Service. 

This arrangement has caused problems at the local bank who are now fourth year of running this project) 
misting that individuals open bank accounts (as opposed to having cheques issued to "cash 
'7. 

The organisers are currently processing requests for National Insurance Number Cards (this particular client 
;roup includes people who are homeless or who have no permanent residence, live in emergency rccommodation etc. which means the bank requires further proof of identification to allow them to open an rccount as they have no permanent address). 

L Wisestart EseStart pay all wages by BACS direct to the participants bank account. 

+%en a particbant starts the programme: 
;tart forms are required -filled in and signed by participants detailing name, address, bank details etc. 

1 
form signed by personnel and detailing wages, job title etc. is also required. 

'45/P46. 

3n a weekly basis: 
"imesheets are required - these are signed daily by participant and authorised by Supervisor. Details of rolidays, sick, unauthorised absence etc are shown on the timesheet. 

'ersonnel department provides pa-vroll department with: 
:opies of all timesheets leductions ;sP Toliday pay I dditional Payments Iny change in circumstances 
3c. 

I 
I1 
participants work one weeks **lie** time. 

J
o cash payments are made. 

'ayments by cheque are only made for bonuses or weeks lie time pa-vment on leaving the company 

## Restricted Commercial Comments

Despite the apparent smooth running o f this payroll (direct payment into bank account) there have been difficulties including people who have no bank account etc, as outlined above. Payment has been made to a bank account named by the recipient, although it is not their own but an agreement has been signed requesting payment. 

4. **DNU** St Brides Cafe Details o f amount to be paid to each worker are given to he payroll operator, Clanspay, three clear working days before payment is due. 

Payment is then made by bank transfer directly in to workers own bank account. 

## Comments

There has only been one instance ofthe worker not having a bank account, this was resolved by their bein> 
zsked to open an account. 

## General Observations

The preferred option is to set up a payroll and have wages paid directly into a bank acconnt. 

Many of this client group have other problems which prevent this 
(eg previous debts, therefore, they fail bank credit checks). 

"Municipal 
'' banks allow people to open an account on the basis o f
 *appropriate identification and* c minimum of one pound, not everywhere has a municipal bank. 

The feasibility of setting up giro payments needs to be investigated 

## Restricted Commercial Sub-Contractors

17. Describe how you will ensure that your sub-contractors understand the aims of the New 
Deal and their role in it and work to the same quality standards. *Also* indicate 
arrangements for ensuring appropriate levels of financial support to them. 
All placements approved as eligible for support as part o f the Lanarkshire ETF will require to meet the qualio standards detailed in section F: The standards required, and the overall aims of the New Deal, will bt detailed in a comprehensive briefing note which will accompany the documentation issued to all potentia placement providers. 

Organisations successfully applying to operate placements in the first stage of the ETF, will be required tc attend a workshop to reinforce all aspects of delivery prior to the commencement of the ETF in summer 1998 
This workshop will circulate and consider a Comprehensive "Delivery Guidance Pack" - a reference manua on all aspects o f placement provision. This will also detail the management arrangements as outlined ir Q.AI. 

In the first year o f operation, further seminars will be held to review progress, share good practice anc consider future developments. 

- 
All relevant events and circulars will be available to organisations seeking to join the delivery network. Thi! 

will ensure that new organisations have the opportunity to enhance delive4y options as the ETF develops. 

The range o f communications, information provision and ongoing network development will be adequatelj resourced from within the management fee applied for in this tender, and through additional support providec by individual consortium members. Maximum use will be made of the existing range of expertise and communication processes within the consortium. 

Sub-contracting delivery agents will be resourced in line with the level of resources applied for within thir tender. Additional support will be provided as appropriate for individual placements, where these cafi complement and enhance existing related project activih;. Ongoing support will also be available t G
 
placement providers to access further leverage funding. 

## Working With Others 1 18. Describe How You Will Work With The Employment Service And Others Involved In The New Deal, For Example, Es New Deal Personal Advisers, And Those Involved In The Delivery Of The Gateway And The Follow Through.

As demonstrated with the Lanarkshire New Deal Plan, the key to successful delivery will be dependent or genuine and effective partnership arrangements, both at a strategic and operational level. 

The underpinning principles, within which the Lanarkshire Strategic Partnership will operate, will establisk the context **for** the activity o f the Environment Task Force Consortium, and **form** the basis **for** an efficieni participant centred service by delivery agencies within the Environment Task Force Option. 

As main contractor, North Lanarkshire Council will undertake to ensure that all subcontracting agencieJ 
offering placements develop efficient systems for communication with all relevant contacts supporting NeH 
Deal clients, but most importantly with Employment Service Personal Advisors and specialist counsellors in Gateway agencies. 

Speclfic measures will include:- 
- 
input from ETF supewisory/support staff in case conferencing 

providing regular updates using approved monitoring systems on development of participants and ETF 
projects 
ongoing meetings with Personal Advisors to ensure feedback on client progress allowing early 
amendments to personal development plans and the provision o
f
 additional support should this be 
required 
regular and frequent communication with training organisations engaged to provide the training element 
of ETF activity 
ongoing dialogue between North Lanarkshire Council and approved subcontractors to develop new and 
innovative placements 
ongoing communication and feedback with Personal Advisors regarding the tracking o
f
 individuals 
following completion of the ETFplacement 

r n general terms, North Lanarkshire Council will undertake to develop and maintain regular reporting on sehalfof the Environment Task Force Consortium to the Lanarkshire Strategic Partnership, through which the werall monitoring of New Deal implementation will be achieved. 

## Participant'S Rights And Responsibilities

19. Describe how you will ensure that Participants understand and fulfil their rights and responsibilities as described in the core elements section of the specification. 

A number of measures will be undertaken in accordance with the Specifications:- 

We will ensure that ES have meaningful and accurate information. Taster periods will bt 
welcome. 
A structured induction 
programme will be delivered 
Each trainee will have a personal development 
plan regularly reviewed 
Work experience will involve the 
full range of work disciplines required 
All trainees will have the opportunity to receive training 
Equal Opportunities Policy requirements will apply (see Question 3) 
Health & Safety procedures will apply (se Question 12) 
New Deal Personal Advisors and other supporting personnel will have continued contac 
wherever 
possible 
New Deal clients will be allocated a mentor as appropriate 
Jobsearch requirements will be tailored to clients needs 
Suitable grievance and disciplinary 
procedures will be in place 
Allowances will be paid timeously 
Any travel costs above f4 
incurred by the trainee will be reimbursed or transport will bt 
provided, wherever 
possible 
Trainees leaving the programme will receive a Record of Achievement developed ifi 
conjunction with other New Deal Options. This is likely to be the successor of the Nationai 
Record of Achievement 
A Follow Through Strategy will be developed in conjunction with Employment Services am 
Consortium members 

## Examples Of Placement And Projects C

Bidders should include a few examples (6-10) of placements or projects which could be offered early in the life of any contract. Examples should illustrate the range and quality of provision to be offered throughout the period of any contract. 

(N.B. The information provided is to help the assessment of bids only. Further information 
may be needed before a placement or project is authorised e.g. specific 
                                                                  health and safety 
arrangements). 

A stencil is attached for bidders to complete and you should provide information on the areas outlined below 

(See attached examples) 
Project 
Title 

## C Examples Of Placement And Projects

Attached are some examples of placement and projects submitted by organisations who would be involved in the delivery of the Environment Task Force in Lanarkshire. These demonstrate that a range of placements could be provided, based on experience in running similar projects. 

It is proposed that a seminar/conference will be held which will fulfil a number of functions:- 
. 
demonstrate the Environment Task Force role in delivering sustainable development 
inform organisations in Lanarkshire of the opportunities 
they **have** to contribute to the 
Environment Task Force 
demonstrate the range of opportunities available 
to participants 
provide opportunities for organisations to network to create partnerships 
- 
The conference will draw on contributions from a wide spectrum and will provide exhibition space for delivery organisations and funding organisations to demonstrate to participants and Personal Advisers the range of opportunities available. A small working party with representatives from the local authorities, Fonvard Scotland, CSV Environment, Wisestart will develop a proposal to be agreed by the Strategic Partnershlp. 

## Environment Task Force And Voluntary Sector Option Placements And Projects

Project 
Centre 2I/CSV Environment 
-------------------------------------------------------------------
The Placement 

Sustainability Audit o f local community. This could take many forms according to the community concerned - 
urbadrural, its demographic and other characteristics and the pam'cipant 's skills and abilities. The participant could choose to focus on one particular aspect o f sustainability such as walking and cycling routes, biodiversity or recycling or alternatively could do a more sophisticated mapping exercise including some work devising community indicators of sustainability. The more sophisticated the audit, the greater the necessity of a vely supportive framework within which it could be taken forward, groupdorganisations who would be willing to participate etc. Another advantage o f this approach is that it could idem& specific projects for future Environment Task Force participants in that area. 

## (1 Suitability

This would be particularly suitable for someone wanting tofind out about the opportunities and implications of sustainable development in their own community. It would be ideal for someone interested in action research or community development. As it could take many fornis it could be adapted to some extent to fit the aptitude of the individual concerned but would probably require someone with a certain amount of confidence and formal education. Good communication skills, the ability to grasp the concept of sustainable development and writing skills would be required; as would the ability to *work on one's* **own** with a limited amount of direction. 

## ..................................................................................................... Environmental Priorities (Etf Only)

The audit could be an importantfirst step in raising local awareness o f sustainable development and starting to plaii action points. lfsuccessful it would leave a number of groups willing to take the work forward. 

## Support And Supervision

This placement would require quite intensive **support** preferably from both a local person and the project coordinator. The initial action plan would need to be reviewed at least evely 3 weeks in the light ofprogress made Option of tailor-made personal development plan on a group or individual basis as appropriate. 

~~ 
~~ 

## 11 Training And Jobsearch

Choice o f VQ includes IT, Community Work, Customer Services and Business Administration at levels 2 and 3. 

Knfonnal Jobsearch **session** one day a week with access to newspapers, photocopying, word processing and phones as well as peer suppofl. Help is also available with C
K
s
,
 
careers guidance. and mock interviaos if desired. 

## Environment Task Force And Voluntary Sector Option Placements And Projects Suitability

Good organisational, administrative and communication skills. Self-starting; comfortable with a degree o f
 
autonomy and confident about communicating with people in various positions. ProbabIy a graduate or someone relatively well educated. Cyclist with a commitment to sustainable transport would be ideal. No mandatory referrals. 

- 
..................................................................................................... 
Participant Benefits. 

Placement would offer a wide range o f skills and experience in networking, publicity and marketing, organisation and administration as well as the satisfaction of a tangible 'product' at the end. The participant would have the opportunity to ntake contact with a wide range ofpotential employers and many o f the skills acquired would be transferable to other fields. 

..................................................................................................... 
Community Benefit 
..................................................................................................... 
Environmental Priorities (ETF only) 

The conference would create and strengthen networks for the promotion o f sustainable transport and exchange models o f
 
good practice in that regard. It would also recruit new members to the cycling campaign and raise its profile. Ultimately it would increase access to more sustainable forms of transport, e.g. safe routes to schools, car pooling, cycle paths etc. 

## ..................................................................................................... Support And Supervision

Initial action plan reviewed six weekly. Tailor-made personal development plan delivered on a group or individual basis as appropriate. Liaison between cot ference steering group and project supervisor to ensure that demands on participants are not excessive and commensurate with their skills, confidence and experience. 

..................................................................................................... 

Training and Jobsearch Choice o f VQ currently includes Business Administration, I
T
?

 
Community Work and Customer Services at levels 
2 and 3. Informal jobsearch session one dqv a week with access to national newspapers, photocopying, word processing and phones as well as peer support. Help is also available with CVs, careers guidance, and mock interviews where appropriate. 

## Environment Task Force And Voluntary Sector Option Placements And Projects

Project 
Central Scotland Counbyside Trust - Cambusnethan Woods 
..................................................................................................... 
The Placement 
Survty Work - usage by local 
people and visitors to the area. 
S u r v q  Work - habitat and vegetation survey, 
biodiversity audit. 
Litter and Scrub Clearance in advance o
f
 
footpath construction. 

## Suitability

| Preference                                             | for candidates with training in    |
|--------------------------------------------------------|------------------------------------|
| environmenUbotany/ecology                              |                                    |
| to                                                     |                                    |
| undertake                                              |                                    |
| survey                                                 |                                    |
| work. Young                                            | people                             |
| who enjoy working out                                  |                                    |
| o                                                      | f                                  |
| doors to undertake the physical works.                 |                                    |
| -                                                      |                                    |
| Unsuitable                                             | for the disabled.                  |
|                                                        |                                    |
| Participant Benefits                                   |                                    |
| Opportunity to develop                                 |                                    |
| survey                                                 |                                    |
| skills                                                 |                                    |
| and woodland management                                |                                    |
| skills.                                                |                                    |
| Opportunity to work out                                |                                    |
| o                                                      | f                                  |
| doors and to engage with local people using the woods. |                                    |
|                                                        |                                    |
| Community Benefit                                      |                                    |

## Environmental Priorities (Etf Only)

This project will contribute to protecting and enhancing our natural heritage. 

..................................................................................................... 

Support and Supervision Participants would be supervised by permanent members of staff 
..................................................................................................... 

Training and Jobsearch Training in surveying skills. 

Training in woodland management and use o f
 
relevant tools. 

Induction into the aims and benefits of Central Scotland Forest. 

A partnership arrangement is being investigated to provide training andjobsearch support potentially through Scottish Power 
(Zearning) 
or Summeriee Training Resource Unit. 

## Support And Supervision

Participants would be supervised by permanent members of staff 

## Training And Jobsearch

Training in footpath work and woodland management and use of relevant tools. 

Induction into the aims and benefits of Central Scotland Forest. 

A partnership arrangement is being investigated to provide training and jobsearch support, potentially through Scottish Power (Learning) 
or Summerlee Training Resource Unit. 

## Environment Task Force And Voluntary Sector Option Placements And Projects 11 The Placement

Placements, currently based in Motherwell, will provide opportunities to be involved in this project which involves canying out emironmental conservation work at locations throughout North Lanarkrhire. This activity is formally supported by Scom'sh Natural Heritage and contributes to key tasks for achieving a range o f
 
Council and Government environmental objectives in particular on biodiversity, sustainable development and community action. 

The project is managed and delivered by Scottish Wildlife Trust and will entail planned work cam'ed out in conjunction with other voluntary organisations, community groups and North Lanarkshire Council. These include:- 

* 
Managing urban nature reserves and woodland parks 
Improving 
public access to the countryside 
- 
0 
0 
Helping community groups and schools to cany out projects, e.g. create wildlife gardens 
Protecting and enhancing important wildlife sites 
Caving out environmental **surveys** to identifi and assess local wildlife sites 

Sconish Wildlife Trust has full SQMS status and is an approved Scottish Qualifications Authority centre and City and Guilds centre. 

..................................................................................................... 

## Suit Ability

Project placements for practical work, which involves tasks such as tree planting, fencing, woodland management, footpath consmction, soft landscaping and habitat creation, would be ideal for any young person who enjoys working outdoors. There are no restrictions and these placements **would** be suitable for mandatory re femals. 

For placements undertaking **survty** work, participants should be able to demonstrate a genuine interest in the environment and be keen to learn more about wildlife. Areas o f work activity include identtfiing and recording wild plants and animals, computerising information, ideiitifiing conservation work to be cam'ed out on wildlife sites, and report writing. 

..................................................................................................... 

Participant Benefits Participants will benefit by gaining:- 

* 
A wide range of transfirable skills such as working as a part of a team, 
planning their own 
work activities, 
and maintaining working relationships with other 
people 
Vocational 
skills which enhance employability in the growth sector o
f
 environmental work 
Contact with potential employers through project work cam'ed out on 
their behalf 
A current 
job reference and cem$cation ofperson achievements 
..................................................................................................... 
Community Benefit 

## ..................................................................................................... Environmental Priorities (Etf Only)

..................................................................................................... 
Support and Supervision 

This will be provided by full-time qualijied Scottish Wildlfe trust supervisors according to the requirements o f
 
individual parricipants. 

Support and supervision will cover all aspects ofthe Action Plan and involve regular revim ami guidance on progress towards meeting project work, training, job search, and employment goals. 

## ..................................................................................................... Training And Jobsearch

Training leading to an approved qualification will be offered, tailored to suit individual needs. Training an be delivered in-house by Scottish Wildlfe Trust supervisors qualified as trainers and assessors to TDLB standard leading to achievement o f a Scottish Vocational Qualification or Higher National Certijkate which includes accreditation o f core, transferable skills. 

Supervisors will also deliver formal jobsearch training including helping participants to produce a CV and fill in application fonns and provide practice with interview techniques. Access to word processing facilities and stationery will also be provided. 

## Environment Task Force And Voluntary Sector Option Placements And Projects

| Project:    |
|-------------|
|             |

The Placement: This would consist of 26 weeks work experience with 26 days training towards a VQ in Amenity Horticulture, General Building or Energy Efficiency. The projects would include: Housing Estate Improvements at Westburn, Petersbum, Old Monklands. Woodland walkways at North Calder Heritage Trail, Bothwell and Blantyre Woods, Clyde Walkway. Community Leisure Facilities at Caldercruix. Town Centre Initiatives throughout central Scotland. Conservation Village Improvements at New Lanark, Crawford John and Energy Efficiency throughout central Scotland. 

WiseStart would carry out these works in partnership with Local Authorities, Local Enterprise Companies, Clyde 
Calders Project, Central Scotland Countryside Trust, Community Initiatives, Employment Services and the Private 
Sector i.e. Scottish Homes, Landfill T
                                  a
                                   x
                                     
                                     Operators etc. 

Other sources of funding would be required fiom the partners involved in each individual project, 

Suitability: 
                The placement would be suitable for 18-24 year olds. WiseStart has in place an Equal Opportunities 
policy which is designed and promoted on the basis that no member of staff or trainee is excluded ~ o m  
                                                                                                 any opportunity 
arising within the organisation - 
                                training, employment, promotion etc - 
                                                                       on the grounds of their race, sex, colour, 
religion, marital status, sexual orientation, disability or offender background. Regarding disabled people working on 
sites we will make provision as necessary to accommodate people who have difficulties, however, the places of work 
De not suitable for anything but those people close to being fully abled bodied. 

Mandatory referrals would not be ruled out however the recruitment and selection procedures currently in place at 
WiseStart would be maintained. 

__---_-----------__-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 

A typical Wisestart New Deal participant will be entitled to the following terms: 

## Participant Benefits:

D 
D 
D 
26 week contract of employment 
First 4 
weeks on benefit + €10, thereafter E3.33hour for 35 hourdweek 
Transport to sites outwith district of residence 
10 days paid holiday plus public holidays 
26 days Directed training working towards a VQ All protective clothing and footwear 
Opportunity of fully paid work trial 
D 
Bonus payments 
Participants will be working on real projects providing a benefit to the community. They will also take part in our Vocational Guidance and Counselling programme where they will receive help in interview techniques, be provided 
#ith a professional CV, as well a s being made aware of soft indicators such as confidence, motivation, attitude etc. 

WiseStart have also introduced a mentoring system where each member of staff acts as a mentor to approximately 5 
iarticipants. The staff make themselves available for advice and guidance, help with application forms etc. The staff neet with their mentor approximately once a month to provide encouragement and support. 

The community would benefit in a number of ways from the projects. Much of the proposed Community Benefit: 
activity falls within areas seen as disadvantaged within Lanarkshire. 

Waged full time jobs are provided that are only available to the target group ofyoung unemployedpeopie for a limited period o f up to 26 week where the product o f their work has either a direct social purpose or is trading for a social purpose where that work would not normaily be undertaken. 

The projects will be tackling the problems faced in the areas targeted, namely unemployment, lack of current skills, lack of opportunity and decay from the run down in traditional industries. 

The general welfare and economic activity of the areas is improved through:- 

0 
Providing training and employment opportunities that would otherwise not be available giving the first step in a 
move to greater economic prosperity. 
0 
Providing local residents with a "rate for the job" wage for 22 weeks of the programme gives people, many of 
whom have had many years of unemployment, money in their pocket. 
0 
Raising the hopes of people in the disadvantaged areas that in the future there is a realistic goal of entering full time 
employment. 
0 
Working in partnership with local authorities, local development agencies, local Employment Service and the 
community offices allows an integrated approach to be taken to tackling the problems faced by the community. 
- 
As a result of these problems there is a need for interventions to help in tackling the unemployment and related issues - 
lack of skills and opportunity, lack of access to jobs. By providing skills and experience combined with access to vacancies and opportunities that would otherwise not be available this project can assist in tackling the problems that exist. 

In the event that participants are successful in securing employment sooner than expected then additional participants will be recruited thereby increasing the absolute number of people who can benefit from the intervention 
....................................................................................................................................... 

Environmental Priorities (ETF only): The project activities support Scotland's Environmental Priorities by:- 
Contributing to the promotion of sustainable development. 

Contributing to improvement in the economic, social and environmental condition of areas where there are concentrations of deprivation. Helping to get young people back into work and providing a useful service to the community. Helping to make deprived areas in Lanarkshire a more pleasant place to live. 

Working in partnership with local agencies and the community to bring about sustainable regeneration of deprived areas. Providing value for money Effecting remedial work which will improve the energy efficiency of the housing stock. 

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During the work experience element of the programme participants are supervised Support and Supewison: 
on site by permanent members of staff, site supervisors, who in turn report to a contracts agent and contracts manager. 

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Training and Jobsearch: 
This consists of vocational training in Amenity Horticulture, General Building or Energy Efficiency towards a VQ and the equivalent of 21 weeks work experience on environmental improvement sites in the areas targeted by the programme allowing participants the opportunity to implement skills learned in their training towards a VQ. 

Intensive vocational, counselling and guidance is used to provide the skills. abilities and motivation to compete in the open jobs market on completion of their participation on the programme. 

Access is provided to full time Employer Liaison Officers responsible for identifying and filling employment and training vacancies for participants. 

In addition participants will have achieved soft outcomes in the shape of increased motivation, confidence, job search skills and being better able to present themselves for interviews. Our aim when participants leave is for them to be "job ready" for an employer, preferably taking up employment when they leave. 

Skills and experience gained on this programme should equip participants to be work ready initially in a light civil engineering/construction and horticulture background. However the general skills of being in work and gaining a proper work ethic and having general employability skills results in participants being suitable for a wide range of employment outwith those directly related to the skills of the programme. 

Training and Job Search (Continued): 
GENERAL BUILDING OPERATIONS COVERS THE FOLLOWING MODULES: 
Lifting and handling, construction materials, scaffolding safety, hand and power tools, small construction plant, mix 
place and compact concrete, servicing wood trades, servicing trowel trades, excavating trenching 1 
                                                                                           Sm, underground 
drainage, kerb laying, paths and paving. 
AMENITY HORTICULTURE COVERS THE FOLLOWING MODULES: 
Establishing ornamental planting and t
                                     u
                                      r
                                      f
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                                         Maintaining ornamental planting and turf, Maintaining turf, Erecting 
structures and maintaining equipment, Maintaining safe and healthy work practices, Maintaining a safe and healthy 
working environment, Create hard landscaping aredfeatures and Working with people. 
ENERGY EFFICIENCY COVERS THE FOLLOWING MODULES: 
Establish and maintain working relationships, contribute to safety in the work place, contribute to maintenance of 
energy installation equipment, prepare to install thermal insulation, install loft insulation, draught proofing, cavity wall 
insulation. 

Participants will take part in the programme for 26 weeks for 35 hours per week covering: 

0 Accredited training towards a VQ as 
above.. 
0 
Work experience on environmental improvement and energy efficiency sites in Lanarkshire. 
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0 
SVQ training is provided by a local provider based in Netherton, Henry Boot Training, and by other Wise Group 
companies, Heatwise and Landwise. Training is delivered in a block release format. 
0 During the programme participants receive on going vocational guidance and counselling equivalent to one day per 
month broken into smaller more intensive parcels of activity. This activity covers job search, motivation, interview 
preparation (mock interviews), action planning etc. 
0 
Participants will be identified through the Gateway. Recruitment will be done on an interview basis with applicants 
measured against a set of criteria. 
0 Once recruited participants are registered for Environmental Task Force, receiving benefit plus €10 for the first four 
weeks. Thereafter participants receive a wage of €1 16.55, augmented by bonuses for achievement. 
Work experience constitutes the majority of the programme after the initial training period. Participants have a training plan included within their contracts of employment supplemented with action plans prepared during vocational guidance and counselling sessions.