Agenda item

Western Bay APB Annual Report 23/24

Following scrutiny, the report was noted.

The Head of Housing and Communities provided a brief overview of the report contained within the agenda pack.  The report outlines the activities and achievements of the Area Planning Board (APB) for the financial year 2023-2024, alongside areas of future focus. It was noted that 2023-2024 was a period in which a significant programme of transformation was undertaken, there has been an improvement in a number of areas, further improvements are anticipated as the APB continues to drive forward the transformation programme to improve services and outcomes for people.

Officers provided an overview of some of the achievements outlined in the report and areas of ongoing work.

Members enquired whether naloxone medication would be available for use within communities or whether specialist training was required to administer the medication.

Officers confirmed that this has been considered but there are difficulties due to the national circuits for defibrillator containers. Consideration is being given to including boxes next to defibrillator containers, however, financial constraints are an issue. There is an awareness of hot spot areas for overdoses and staff working in these areas are trained and carry naloxone. It was noted that individuals at risk of overdose would be unable to administer the naloxone themselves but were encouraged to carry the kits to assist with other individuals who may overdose.

Officers advised members that there has been a 22% decrease in blood-borne virus screening; this has been as a result of positive work. Neath Port Talbot are the only authority in Wales to have services achieving micro elimination of Hepatitis C in line with World Health Organisation objectives. In relation to drug-related deaths, there has been a 23% decrease in Neath Port Talbot for the current year. However, the APB remains vigilant about emerging threats in the drug market, such as potent synthetic opioids such as nitazines and xylazine. The APB continues to monitor these trends and collaborate with partners to address the challenges.

Members questioned whether the crime rate could rise due to an increased cost for some drugs.

Officers stated that they would be unable to answer this question, and this was a question for colleagues in policing. Officers confirmed that in police custody suites, there is potential for drug testing which is matched across the typology of offending. Support is available in police custody suites to assess and triage people in relation to their drug or alcohol use, so there is an ability to look at how offending and drug markets are influencing behaviours in the population.

Members asked for clarification regarding the data, and whether one person was recorded in a number of services.

The APB is committed to improving services and outcomes for people, working collaboratively to ensure support for all. The report highlights the importance of understanding the wider picture behind performance indicators to respond effectively to changing needs. The APB aims to streamline services with a single entry point and provider for clinical and non-clinical services by the end of the year. Officers confirmed that there was a first point of contact in current services, with a freephone number, online referral form or drop in service.

Members asked for clarification regarding people being refused residential rehabilitation if their condition deteriorates.

Officers confirmed that if a person’s health deteriorates during the application process, this is taken into consideration before a person commences a residential rehabilitation, as it could affect their ability to complete the rehabilitation successfully.

Members expressed concern regarding the different death rates between males and females and the high death rates in Neath Port Talbot. The Chair requested sight of statistics in relation to drug use with links to people with neurodiverse conditions.

Officers confirmed that the statistics for male/female death rates reflect the national picture with more males taking drugs and females less likely to come forward for support. Work was undertaken on this topic and a suite of recommendations were implemented within the Harm Reduction Subgroup; one area is for gender specific support. In relation to neurodiversity, there is limited data available. It was acknowledged that this needed to be addressed within new services so that there is full understanding of the demographic and how they can be supported.

The Cabinet Member for Housing and Community Safety thanked the team for their contribution. This is a complex field, and many residents will be unaware of the work conducted by the council to protect people from the harmful effects of substance use. It was noted that tackling issues is complex due to the changes in new drugs available. Gratitude was expressed for the staff who have developed the Alliance model, which was hoped would better coordinate services across agencies. There is a need to publicise the role that the council undertakes and how important the work is.

Members commented on the reasons that young people were using substances and questioned how substance use could be prevented.

Officers agreed that this was a challenging area and partnership working was important, particularly with Public Health to change the narrative around substance use.

Following scrutiny, the report was noted.