Agenda item

Executive Director of Community & Children’s Services to be heard. Presentation by Street Link.

The Sub Committee received a presentation from Home Connections on Street Link, and its new platform updates.

A query was raised regarding using the Street Link App to make referrals during the day. Members were informed that a notification will appear on the screen, but the alert will still be sent. It will be up to the individual local authorities to opt in or out for daytime alerts.  

A member raised concern over not being able to accurately complete the description of an induvial sleeping rough, and raised a question whether a picture could be uploaded instead. Members were informed that the technology is available; however, more research is required to ensure privacy protection is adhered to.

In response to a question, Members were informed that individuals are still able to self-refer. Those self-referring are prompted to go straight to their local councils, with details for out of office contacts provided.  

Members were informed that the FAQ page is currently under construction. It will be published in the next iteration on the system in mid-November and going live in early December.

In response to a question, Members were informed that even though there is no anti-social behaviour, if you suspect an individual to be under 18 years old, the procedure is to contact emergency services. Eighteen is the statutory cut off, and minors have the right to emergency care.

Concerns were raised over the requirement to enter the full postcode. Members were informed that this was a requirement of the current database, and will be changed when Street Link is on its own database. Future additional will also allow users to send a notification from a different location. In the meantime, users are able to use location service to auto populate. Following a request, a link to explain the What Three Words location service will be included.

Members were informed that Home Connections are looking to incorporate a chat bot to have in the back office to support the local authorities. They are also exploring ways to use AI to help pinpoint location once the user has moved from the area.

The Chair thanked Home Connections for their presentation and updates.

RESOLVED – That the presentation be noted.