Agenda item

To seek Policy Development Panel’s views on the proposed HR policies prior to report to Council (report of the Assistant Director – Corporate enclosed).

Consideration was given to the report of the Assistant Director – Corporate, which sought the Policy Development Panel’s views on the proposed HR policies prior to report to Council.

The Group Manager – Organisational Development and the HR Manager – Operations (PSPS) attended in person for this item, and the Assistant Director – Corporate attended virtually. 

The Group Manager – Organisation Development introduced the report to members and highlighted that:

• The policies covered within the report were outlined at point 2.4;
• In respect of new policies:
  • The Drugs and Alcohol Policy was at Appendix A;
  • The Menopause Policy was at Appendix B;
  • The Shared Officer Job Evaluation Scheme was at Appendix C;
  • The Family Leave Policy was at Appendix D;
• In respect of existing policies:
  • The Disciplinary Policy was at Appendix E;
  • The Adverse Weather Policy was at Appendix F; and
  • The Volunteer Policy was at Appendix G.

Members considered the report and made the following comments:

• Members queried that drug and alcohol testing could only be undertaken with the written consent of the employee.
  • The Group Manager – Organisation Development responded that consent was necessary however any resistance to engage could result in further action available to the council as an employer.

• Members referred to the Menopause Policy and were unclear who the policy referred to.
  • The Group Manager – Organisation Development agreed to include a glossary of terms.

AGREED:

a)    That the review of HR Policies be noted; and

b)    That a glossary of terms be added in respect of the Menopause Policy.