It’s good that the public sector is now required by law to take into account social benefit when commissioning services. But the strength of the legislation derives from its ethos and ability to change behaviour rather than the legal content Read more
Successful strategic commissioning by public sector bodies is a complex process, more akin to making music than a purely technical exercise. Ministers should take note Read more
News that the Treasury is looking for even bigger cuts from unprotected Whitehall departments is adding to the public sector gloom. So what is to be done? Read more...
The role of boards and their chairs is crucial to the successful performance of organisations in the public sector and beyond. Boards must demonstrate both good governance and good leadership Read more
The public has still not grasped the implications of 25-35% spending cuts for public services. It’s time for councils to open the books and launch local information campaigns that engage local citizens Read more
The LGA is correct in calling for a greater role for councils in tackling youth unemployment. But why stop there? Town halls should make the case for assuming responsibility for the increasingly discredited Work Programme Read more
There has been a lack of mature and open conversations between local authorities and the voluntary and community sector. As the cuts start to bite, they need to discuss shared goals as well as individual concerns Read more
The Local Government Secretary’s festive suggestions of ‘50 ways to save’ might have been amusing if councils did not face funding cuts of more than 28% and potentially further bad news in this week’s settlement Read more
Public bodies seem to be pursuing the use of payment by results with the vigour of a drunk in search of the next bottle of alcohol. Disaster looms unless there’s some sober consideration of where and when such an approach can work Read more
The LGA’s bleak financial forecast for councils poses some very tough choices for local leaders. The first job is to face up to the options ahead Read more
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