March 2009 - Statement on 2009 Comprehensive Performance Assessment results for councils

Commenting on the 2009 Comprehensive Performance Assessment results released by the Audit Commission today, Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government Hazel Blears said:

"People rightly expect the best from their council, particularly in these tough times.

"The challenge ahead is for councils and the rest of the public sector to do all they can, working together, to help their communities through the downturn, building on councils' role as community leaders. And despite overall progress, resolute work is needed to tackle areas which are not performing as well and where we are determined to see further improvements.

"We want to see the improvements in local performance mirrored in public satisfaction with the places people live and work in, and councils need to do more to ensure this. Giving residents a stronger voice by involving them in decision making and actively listening to them is fundamental, and can help councils find the best solutions for important local issues. It is also crucial today more than ever that local councils deliver better value for money. The new assessment regime will help drive this by looking at the way councils use their resources, work with other organisations to improve local services, and plan for the future, and will report in a way that makes sense to citizens and helps them get more involved."

Local Government Minister John Healey said:

"These assessments highlight the improvements councils have made in recent years and the action they need to take now. Councils and the rest of the public sector all need to deliver top class services for their residents who are relying on them more than ever in today's economic climate. We expect councils and their partners to meet the challenge to make taxpayers' money go further through better working and cutting out red tape. And keeping council tax down is a priority. What's clear is that public services pulling together can make a real difference, and the new assessment regime we are introducing from April will both encourage agencies to do more together and keep track of their progress."

Article from: http://www.communities.gov.uk/news/corporate/1165062