Meeting documents

            Meeting: Corporate Scrutiny Sub-Committee (County Hall, Durham - Committee Room 1a - 24/05/2004 10:00:00 AM)

                  Item: A4 Best Value Review-Business Support Services

         

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Scrutiny Committee for Corporate Management Issues 24 May 2004 Business Support Services: Best Value Review

Report of Head of Overview and Scrutiny

Purpose of Report

1. To explain the presentation which will be given to the Sub-Committee about the current position relating to the Best Value Review of Business Support Services.

Background

2. A small number of Best Value Reviews targeted on specific areas are under way. One of those Best Value Reviews is looking at Business Support Services. This is very much part of the Embracing Change Initiative following the Comprehensive Performance Assessment for the authority.

3. The Review broadly covers the following areas:-

· Property

· Finance and Administration

· People Management

· Design and Print.

4. The Terms of Reference of the Review are:

‘To Develop Business Support Services in a co-ordinated and coherent way to ensure a joined up approach in delivering the organisation and cultural changes that are required. To consider the value of entering into partnerships in this area’.

5. This Best Value Review raises a number of issues which were identified by the Scrutiny Budget Working Group in considering the budget last year. In particular, the need to

· improve a corporate approach focused on the priorities of the Council,

· seek Best Value through a thorough examination of current practices to maximise the effectiveness of business support services across the Council with regard to cost, performance and quality.

· consider possible savings and ‘Spend to Save’ initiatives.

6. A presentation will be given at the Sub-Committee about the current stage of this Review. This will provide the opportunity for the Sub-Committee to make any comments about the Review.

Recommendation

7. You are recommended to consider the presentation about this Best Value Review and comment as appropriate.

Contact: Ian Mackenzie Tel: 0191 383 3506

Attachments

 Item 4.dot