Another route to reform?

摘要

As Transformation Director at Essex Council, back in 2015,I led a programme to deliver around £250m of desperately needed savings and helped the county council on its journey to become a commissioning organisation. This followed on from one of the proudest moments of my career - being part of the team that helped turn around the Children's Services in Essex from 'Inadequate' to 'Good' according to Ofsted. I was a small part of a much bigger (and brilliant) team and was privileged to work alongside inspirational leaders like Director of Children's Services Helen Lincoln - and to be guided by the energy and leadership of the late, great Dave Hill. However, what seemed like a mountain to climb for us back in 2015 is immeasurably harder six years later - especially following on from 18 months of national lockdown and a significant increase in demand. The costs for social care are steadily increasing and, despite the potential short-term relief provided by national insurance increases, funding reform remains the most talked about issue when I speak to colleagues in local authorities.