PF blog

A problem shared: co-production in practice

Community co-production might seem like a touchy-feely 1970s concept – but in austerity Britain parts of the public sector are making it work Read more

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Facing up to future costs

Politicians often propose policies without any proper review of their costs. When any new measure is introduced into Parliament, the Office for Budget Responsibility should audit its future financial burden Read more

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London Finance Commission: this time it’s different

The London Finance Commission’s recommendations are a sensible blueprint for local government finance in the capital and beyond. They could help stoke a formidable movement for change Read more

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Joined-up care: the next step

Integrating health and social care has long been a goal of governments. But the latest proposals are unlikely to go far enough and more radical measures may be needed Read more

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A capital idea on tax retention

Today’s call for devolved tax-raising powers for London could herald similar moves in cities right across the nation. It’s a development that is long overdue Read more

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What, no new education bills?

The absence of any new education legislation in the Queen’s Speech was no bad thing. Michael Gove has introduced more than enough radical changes that need time and support to bed in Read more

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Don’t forget the last-time buyers

Most discussion about kick-starting housing focuses on first-time buyers. But local authorities could do much more to help older people live in homes that are suitable for their needs later in life Read more

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A ‘singleton’ tax? Not exactly

The LGA’s measured submission on local government finance in advance of the Spending Review sparked a spate of misleading stories claiming ‘Labour town halls’ were plotting to impose ‘Bridget Jones taxes’ Read more

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How to be successful with shared services

Attempts to share or outsource public services often end in tears. So how can councils avoid negative headlines and ensure that their projects deliver the projected savings and objectives? Read more...

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Probation reform: doing it all?

Justice Secretary Chris Grayling’s probation reforms are ambitious and complex. How should the Ministry of Justice attempt to reduce the risks that accompany changing everything at once? Read more

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