Reshaping the provision of public services as a response to the damaging cuts by Government was a hot topic at the Local Government Conference recently. The prospect of any windfall of funding any time soon is highly unlikely. Demand on public services are increasing particularly in the field of health and social care. I returned from the Conference loaded with material that highlighted the radical changes that are taking place in local government across the country.
Simply reducing council budgets still further without making structural changes is not possible. Our residents are crying out for more services not less . The challenge is how best we can all rise to that challenge. Interest in local politics is at its lowest point. How can we begin to win hearts and minds. This is not a discussion that can only be held behind closed doors in the Towns Hall cross the country. We need to reconnect with those who have placed their trust and confidence in those they elected for public office.
To regain trust we need to become more accountable, more relevant and more outward focused. Devolving more power and decision making to local communities is achieving success in many local authorities. Live streaming via webcam and encouraging Twitter interaction saw Oldham Council receiving more questions at their last meeting than they had in the last five years. Engaging young people must be a key priority. When changes are suggested the Council Constitution does not enable us to make such changes. Of course we have the opportunity to change it to meet resident engagement.
How do we begin to address the contempt that many people have for politicians. Living like fat cats suggests the Tax Alliance but the reality is a far cry from they hype they create. Local Government will have lost something like 43% of revenue income. Here in Greenwich we have made considerable advances but the journey continues, nothing stands still.
What are your ambitions for Greenwich. I would love to hear your views. What could be better. What do you like or dislike. Lets have a constructive discussion about the future of the area we love.