The impact of devolution upon frontline services

The latest research developed by APSE and the Centre for Local Economic Strategies (CLES) explores the impact that devolution in England is having upon the provision and delivery of frontline services in local government.

The report, The impact of devolution upon frontline services, highlights that as devolution has evolved over the last few years and deals have been agreed between localities and Government, the debate has been remiss of any conversation about frontline services. We explore how frontline service provision has been and could further be affected by devolution now and in the future and why frontline services should be considered as a core component of the debate as it moves forward.

Whilst the range of powers devolved is broad, this research found that frontline services have largely been omitted from the devolution debate. Conversations taking place at a strategic level have had little engagement or consideration of on-the-ground services. This is despite the potentially wide-ranging implications for frontline services.

Using current conversations around devolution, a survey of APSE’s membership, and desk-based research, this report draws together the key reasons why frontline services and the impact upon them should be considered in future devolution deals. We argue that developing a better relationship between frontline services and strategic policy makers at the local level is integral to the success of devolution. Strategists and frontline managers must close the communication gap, working with policy makers and Central Government to design progressive devolution deals that empower local places.

The full report is available to download for free. To purchase a hard copy, please complete the form below.

For further information, please contact Mo Baines at APSE on 0161 772 1810 or email [email protected].

Download Research (pdf)