Friday 9 September

It was with great sadness yesterday that we received confirmation of the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and I'd like to join all those in offering my deep condolences. The Council is now following an agreed national plan which sets out what happens in relation to things like Proclamation events and arrangements we need to make so our residents can pay their respects. You can find details and updates in the news section on our website and on our social media feeds.

My working week began with a meeting of the North East Regional Employers' Organisation (NEREO) via Microsoft Teams. NEREO's function is to support local authorities and partner organisations in the fields of human resources, organisational development and employee relations. 

Then in the afternoon I joined fellow Cabinet members online for a briefing on items due to be discussed at next week's Cabinet, including a financial update and a Scrutiny Review of bonfires on public land.

On Tuesday I joined directors and other members for a pre-agenda meeting for the Stockton-on-Tees Health and Wellbeing Board, which is due to be held later this month.

I then travelled to Teesside International Airport for a meeting of the Tees Valley Combined Authority's (TVCA) Education, Employment and Skills Advisory Group (EESAG) which I chair. There were a number of items on the agenda including an economic update and the Local Skills Improvement Plan.

Wednesday saw me travel to London for a Local Government Association (LGA) event - Health and Wellbeing in the Integrated Care System: Political Leadership Masterclass. The one day development session provided an opportunity for delegates to share learning and work through leadership challenges with peers, as well as hear from some authoritative speakers.

Yesterday began with my regular Leader's Portfolio Briefing from senior officers.

Then in the afternoon I joined an informal meeting of Cabinet Members ahead of Full Cabinet.

Later today I'll visit Cleveland Police Headquarters for my regular update on crime and policing issues in the Borough with Cleveland Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Steve Turner.