Innovation ‘is key to improved services’

23 May 2007
 
Innovation is the key ingredient to help local authorities meet growing public expectations and financial pressures, according to a new report by the Audit Commission.
The Seeing the light: Innovation in local public services report says successful innovation helps councils cope with pressure to improve efficiency, boost overall performance and gives residents better value for money. Although it says most councils and fire authorities at all levels of assessed performance are engaged in some form of innovation, the study argues that there is still scope for bigger gains.
The commission identifies four key stages of innovation which authorities should follow: identify opportunities; embed creativity; take well-managed risks; and share innovative practice. A series of case studies which demonstrate the successful implementation of these innovative processes across a range of services has been published alongside the report at www.audit-commission.gov.uk
New Forest and Test Valley district councils are commended for their partnership to jointly deliver a range of services. Woking Borough Council is commended for being at the forefront of local action to address climate change. In 2002, the council adopted a climate change strategy, including plans to adopt a carbon-neutral approach to future activities. Using innovative approaches to funding, technology and partnership working, the council has established itself as a leader in this field and has reduced emissions from its own property by 82%.
Audit Commission chairman, Michael O’Higgins said: ‘Local authorities are seldom portrayed as hotbeds of innovation, but our report shows many are innovating to deliver better services. ‘Innovative authorities realise that greater efficiency is not always about working harder. It’s about being smarter.’

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