The implications of the local government white paper

Virtually every section of the Local Government White Paper (October 2006) refers to the role and contribution of the third sector and empowered citizens. The paper and the Local Government and Public Involvement in Health Bill have significant implications for third-sector organisations and public agencies. 

Local councils will have a new duty to secure participatio’ of local people or their representatives. Voluntary and community sector (VCS) representatives will be full partners in decision making and delivery. There is a strong theme of localism and empowering communities and neighbourhood governance.

For many councils, these changes will be huge. It will take time to change the procedures. Some councils have made good progress on some elements of the agenda. The extent of the changes means every council will have to think strategically and prioritise according to local circumstances. There are implications for councils and the third sector in terms of resources, roles, attitudes and skills. 
 
Four key themes of the white paper are: 

• accountable, transparent and responsive leadership
• strengthened partnerships and strategic decision making
• strengthened user voice and choice
• council responsibility for fostering civic pride and building cohesion

Further reading

The LGA's Closer to People report – on the Local Government Association website.