Issue - meetings

To consider the attached report of the Head of Finance and Housing.

The Head of Finance and Housing presented the report on the Kent and Medway Medical School Student Support. The report proposed that the Council support a student at the Kent and Medway Medical School for 5 years from 2021-26.

Members welcomed the proposal, noting the urgent need for more trained medical professionals in the district due to shortfalls in provision. The question of whether the student to be supported should be from the district and how they could be encouraged to stay locally after training was discussed. The Head of Finance and Housing advised that the support would be promoted locally to encourage local applicants.

It was proposed by Councillor T A Bond, duly seconded by Councillor C A Vinson, that

“The medical school support should only be awarded to a resident of the Dover District.”

On being put to the vote, there was an equally of votes and the Chairman used her casting vote against the motion and it was LOST.

Members discussed the feasibility of a second student receiving support from the Council was raised and Members were advised that it would be dependant on the future budget position.

In response to a question from Councillor M Rose it was stated that a payback clause to ensure the Council’s financial support was not wasted if the course was not completed would be looked into further.

It was moved that

RESOLVED: That Cabinet Decision CAB168 be endorsed as follows:

(a)  That a student be supported at the Kent and Medway Medical School for five years.

(b)  That the sum of £5,000 per annum be included in the draft budget for 2021/2022 and the Medium-Term Financial Plan.

To consider the attached report of the Head of Finance and Housing

Responsibility: Leader of the Council

It was agreed:

(a)   That a student be supported at the Kent and Medway Medical School for five years.

(b)   That the sum of £5,000 per annum be included in the draft budget for 2021/2022 and the Medium-Term Financial Plan.