Shared services and collaborative working in a Welsh context: Applying theory to practice

New research in response to the Simpson review of public services in Wales has found that for shared services to work successfully it is critical that collaboration reflects local circumstances. ‘Shared services and collaborative working in a Welsh context: Applying theory to practice’ has been published today by the Association for Public Service Excellence (APSE) in partnership with De Montfort University. The research also found that Welsh councils would achieve better outcomes using existing powers to work on a shared basis, which would avoid costly and complex contractual arrangements. 

Commenting on the research APSE Wales chair Cllr Arwyn Woolcock, said “This research will act as a good source of guidance for Welsh local authorities who are struggling to determine the best way forward to achieve better outcomes for local communities within Wales. He added

“What is clear from the research is that there is  no ‘one size fits all’ answer and in many cases good outcomes can be found by avoiding risk and costly contractual arrangements and instead concentrating on what works best at a local level”.

Ends

Notes to editor

• APSE is the Association for Public Service Excellence and APSE Wales works with all Welsh local authorities

• The research was conducted by Debbie Johns of APSE and Adele Reynolds who is joint research associate of APSE and  De Montfort University as part of the European Knowledge Transfer Programme

• Printed copies of the research are available from APSE. Please contact [email protected] .

• For media enquiries or to arrange for interview please contact Mo Baines on [email protected]

• Press passes are available for the launch event which will be held on Friday 22 June at the Metropole Hotel, Llandrindod Wells. To apply please email [email protected]