Council Plan Our vision and themes

Working together to promote fairness and opportunity for people and communities

Enabling theme

1. working together to create a more efficient, effective and accessible council

This theme builds on the council’s Improvement Plan (published June 2022) to ensure there is a continuous programme of improvement and service transformation. Back-office services from across the council will be redesigned into centralised models to ensure these services are as efficient as possible. All Directorates will be reviewed and restructured to support the outcomes of the Council Plan. The council will accelerate its digital transformation to improve automation of processes and improved customer accessibility. The council’s properties and assets will be rationalised to reduce unnecessary overheads and support the council's net zero commitments.

Outcomes

  • council finances stabilised
  • services are cost-effective and deliver value for money
  • council services are efficient, accessible and inclusive
  • assets and property support our vision and priorities

What we will do

  • council delivers within budget
  • reserves replenished
  • council secures and enhances its revenue where possible
  • all back-office services reviewed and centralised
  • council transformation programme delivered
  • identify and appoint a digital transformation partner
  • universal services will be delivered to the best possible standard
  • implement People Strategy
  • implement Customer Experience Strategy
  • review of customer access channels
  • corporate landlord model implemented
  • review and enhance Corporate Equality & Inclusion including the Armed Forces Covenant
  • implement Assets Strategy including programme of disposals for surplus buildings

How it will be measured

  • Annual Budget and performance
  • reserves at 5% of Council budget by 2027
  • savings delivery targets achieved
  • services bench marked with comparator authorities and/or externally recognised for good practice
  • improved street and environment cleanliness
  • Improved waste and recycling performance
  • Equality Impact Assessments
  • call centre response times
  • qualitative feedback for face-to-face services
  • reduction in the council’s office estate
  • Capital receipts delivered to schedule
  • overall service efficiencies delivered
  • improved customer service performance

Delivery themes

2. early help for children and families

3. promoting independence and healthier lives

4. people focused regeneration

5. protect our environment

6. safe, resilient and engaged communities