Budget Q and A social media session

Developing our Workforce

Developing our Workforce Budget Q and A session with Cllr Michael Cook

On 6 December Councillor Michael Cook was live on Facebook and Twitter between 6-7pm for a question and answer session relating to developing our workforce. Below are the questions, and answers, that were discussed.

You asked

Assuming a workload is manageable in a given time, the number of competent people required to complete the goal is usually determined by an experienced team leader. Contingency plans will be in place for the unexpected, i.e. Sick leave, injury, or otherwise. Do you operate such a system?

We said

We do plan workloads and staffing levels taking account of factors such as fluctuating demand and peak holiday times. Departments have business continuity plans in place to ensure any critical services are protected in case of a significant event that impacts on the Scottish Borders.

You asked

Should we not be worried about the amount of staff that are being paid off in the council? Is this actually saving money and how do you make sure you don't lose the relevant expertise?

We said

We are committed to minimising the impact of job losses on staff but in the current climate this is not always possible. We use a number of processes such as redeployment and retraining to offer options to staff. There is a rigorous process followed to ensure any staff leaving under the Early Retirement/Voluntary Severance programme, are affordable both financially and in terms of handover of experience and skills.

You asked

Will there be any more cuts to learning support staff in schools?

We said

This question came in after the session had closed. A response will be provided as soon as possible.