Decision details

RESOLVED:

That a programme of staff engagement and the development of the Transformation Strategy to deliver change, improve outcomes and contribute to resolve the MTFP gap by delivering savings of at least £1M by Financial Year 26/27 be supported.

REASONS FOR DECISION:

As set out in the report.

KEY DECISION:

Yes.

PORTFOLIO:

Leader/All.

ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS CONSIDERED/REJECTED:

As set out in the report.

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST:

None.

DISCUSSION:

The Leader of the Council introduced the report, highlighting that significant opportunities had been identified on ways in which the Council could better engage and serve its residents. The Transformation Programme would provide a platform for the Council to deliver efficiencies, modern business practices, sustainable delivery of services and a skilled and motivated workforce. The Leader hoped that, through these different enhancements, the New Forest District Council would be an employer of choice in the region.

The Assistant Director of Transformation explained that over the coming months, the Council would be setting their Transformation Strategy, how the strategy would be governed and the performance measures that would support the delivery of the programme.

Cabinet Members expressed their support to the programme update and it was emphasised that whilst all of these improvements were being undertaken, the core principle of those residents who needed to be able to directly meet and talk with Council staff and members would remain. It was acknowledged that the programme would save the Council on certain costs and that services may be delivered in different ways, but the Cabinet were clear that the level of quality for all services would be maintained. Key Performance Indicators would continue to be utilised in order to monitor the progress of the transformation programme.