News Update

Week Ending 12th May 2006

High Cost Placements – Launch Event – 10^th May 2006

The above event took place this week and was very well attended.  The event was vital in terms of taking this project forward and gauging the priorities of local authorities in our region.  We would like to thank everyone who attended, and would encourage your feedback – please click here for feedback form.

A number of key issues were raised by participants in respect of links with other social care initiatives running throughout the North West.   We have been in discussion with the project sponsors in respect of these work programmes to finalise our assessment and ensure work is coordinated.  We will provide further information in a future edition of our update.

Presentations and documentation from this event will be available on our website from early next week.  In the meantime if you would like further information please contact Bev at NWCE.

Good Practice Case Studies

This directory of case studies provides downloads or signposts to case study material, either published by the Regional Centres themselves or other sources, relating to more efficient and effective ways of working in local authorities.

Showcasing Good Practice - an anthology of case studies - a selection of good practice from around the country that councils have introduced in a bid to improve efficiency and service outcomes.

Experian – Credit Reference Agency – Council Tax

Wyre Borough Council like all council’s responsible for the collection of council tax are keen to maximise collection rates. As part of this continued drive for improvement the council is considering establishing an agreement with Experian (credit reference agency) to provide information to assist in the recovery of council tax arrears etc.

They would be interested to learn if other council’s utilise the services of Experian or any other company on a regular basis and their experience as to the value of information provided.

In addition, they would be interested to hear from any council who might be interested in joining them in negotiating a preferential deal with Experian. This can be any council within the northwest and needn’t be limited to Lancashire.

For further information please contact Peter Lightbown, Head of Customer Services at Wyre BC; Tel: 01253 887504 or email: plightbown@wyrebc.gov.uk

Shared Services Bulletin – May 2006

The May 2006 issue of the Shared Services bulletin has been published by the Cabinet Office Shared Services Team.  To view please click here.

Transforming Local Government – Construction

The East Midlands Centre of Excellence, who lead nationally on Construction, jhave commissioned a new publication showcasing examples of successful local authority construction frameworks covering housing, general building and highways.  In highlighting key characteristics and the efficiencies they are delivering, it is hoped to encourage and inspire others to adopt similar principles to assist in meeting efficiency targets.  Hard copies of the document are being distributed to each of the North West local authorities.  It can also be viewed by clicking here.

Care Services Efficiency Delivery Newsletter – May 2006

The May 2006 edition of the Care Services Efficiency Delivery newsletter is available, and can be downloaded by clicking here.

Vendor Management and Procurement Forum

15 June 2006, Copthorne Hotel, Manchester

As you may be aware there are a number of initiatives in the North West around the procurement of agency staff.  Comensura have agreed to host a session to look at a number of options.

If you are interested in attending this event please contact Comensura at enquiries@comensura.co.uk before Friday 2^nd June 2006.

Corporate/Collaborative Services Workstream Meeting – 14 June 2006  

The next meeting of the Corporate/Collaborative Services workstream will take place on 14 June 2006 at Manchester Town Hall Conference room.  Lunch will be provided from 12.30pm, with the meeting to commence at 1pm. 

The agenda for this meeting will be distributed nearer the time.  In the meantime if you would like further information please contact Bev at the NWCE.

Framework Agreements Workstream Meeting - 15 May 2006

The draft agenda for this meeting is now available.  If you would like a copy or would like further information please contact Rebecca at NWCE.

Regional Procurement Card User Group and Forum, Manchester, 16 May 2006

THIS EVENT IS FULLY BOOKED. 

If you are interested in attending but have not booked a place please contact NWCE and your name will be placed on a waiting list.