Discussion paper on future assessment of Local Authority services
04 September 2006
The Audit Commission has recently (4th August) published a Corporate Discussion Paper on the Assessment of Local Services Beyond 2008.
Building on experience with the current CPA process, and taking the opportunity of the introduction of a more streamlined, ‘joined-up’ inspection regime from 2008, this paper sets out key areas for discussion. These include:
Encouraging a balance between national priorities and the needs of local communities
Recognising the need for a more area based approach, taking account of the increase in partnership working and not focussing solely on the Local Authority (with links to Local Area Agreements and Local Strategic Partnerships)
Shifting the emphasis towards self and peer assessment, especially for stronger performing Authorities, whilst ensuring robust protection for vulnerable groups