Laura Sharman 20 May 2014

Councils 'firefighting' way through tough times, says report

Many local authorities are 'firefighting' their way through cuts and focusing too heavily on reducing staff, according to a new report.

The Skills for Local Government report found workforce planning is becoming increasingly difficult for local authorities as budget cuts are forcing them to focus on a basic head count and workplace reductions instead.

According to the report, workplace planning is also becoming more complicated as local authorities outsource services, take part in shared services arrangements, and develop new service delivery models.

Written in partnership with Birmingham City Council and the Local Government Association, the report said that old workplace planning methods are 'not irrelevant' but must operate in three dimensions – strategic and business vision, workforce planning and HR implementation skills.

Skills for Local Government Employer relationship manager, Bob Ross, said: 'Workforce planning is not a new concept. It has been applied in all sectors of the economy in one form or another for many years.

'But like many aspects of local government, it has become more complicated in recent years due to the operational environment in which it has to take place.'

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Head of Democratic Services, Elections & Monitoring Officer

Harborough District Council
Grade 12 £67,236 – £71,223 plus £3000pa Statutory Officer Allowance
We are looking for an accomplished and proactive leader for our vacant post of Head of Democratic Services & Elections Market Harborough, Leicestershire
Recuriter: Harborough District Council

Social Worker- Family Support and Safeguarding - Witney

Oxfordshire County Council
£37035 - £47754
You will manage a caseload tailored to your experience, ensuring that children’s and their families’ voices are heard, and their needs are met. You will work with families using the Family Support and Safeguarding Workbook modules, and a strengths-bas Witney
Recuriter: Oxfordshire County Council

Social Worker - Family Support and Safeguarding - Bicester Banbury

Oxfordshire County Council
£37035 - £47754
You will manage a caseload tailored to your experience, ensuring that children’s and their families’ voices are heard, and their needs are met. You will work with families using the FSP Workbook modules, and a strengths-based approach, ensuring the As Bicester
Recuriter: Oxfordshire County Council

Executive Director of Resources & Governance (S151 Officer)

Basildon Borough Council
Up to £146,245
Together, we lead. Together, we deliver. Together, we transform. Basildon, Essex
Recuriter: Basildon Borough Council

Executive Director of Homes, Communities & Environment

Basildon Borough Council
Up to £146,245
Together, we lead. Together, we deliver. Together, we transform. Basildon, Essex
Recuriter: Basildon Borough Council
Linkedin Banner