Frequently asked questions about
shared services
Why is the Royal Borough looking at merging services with other
councils?
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Funding for local government was cut significantly in the
Comprehensive Spending Review. As a result of these difficult
times, the Council has been looking at ways to protect its high
quality public services, whilst spending less money.
On Friday 22 October 2010 it was announced that the Leaders of
Kensington and Chelsea, Hammersmith and Fulham and Westminster
Councils had accepted the proposition to look at merging some
public services. This would reduce duplication and enable all three
councils to reduce costs while preserving front-line services.
It is estimated that merging services will save each council at
least £10 million each year.
What services might be merged?
This has yet to be decided. Nothing has been ruled out but
initially this will focus on a few major areas where merging
services is viable and good for the public. There are a number of
areas where merging is less likely.
It will probably not be Housing Services, Development Control,
Policy, Electoral Services, Media and Communications, Licensing or
Governance Services. But no formal decisions have been made as
yet.
What about my ward Councillors?
These plans only address how public services are provided and
managed. The Council is determined that local priorities will still
be driven by local people and that the democratic mandate rested in
elected Councillors will be retained.
When will there be more information?
Work is now underway. Detailed plans with recommendations for
action will be delivered in February 2011. These will be considered
by all three councils, and will be discussed with staff, trade
unions and scrutiny committees
Can I comment on the plans?
At the moment there is only the idea. When the proposals are
ready the Council will discuss these widely.
Will terms and conditions change?
There is nothing inevitable about an effect on terms and
conditions though part of this exercise will be comparing and
contrasting as to how the three councils get jobs done. If this
throws up challenges as to different costs we should welcome the
opportunity to rethink how we do things. At a future point this
might include pay points, grades and other terms and conditions.
But that is all in the future at present.
I work for the Council. When will I know if my job is
affected?
Not for some months. Certainly nothing will be decided before
February 2011 and after that, if Councillors agree to go forward,
we will then enter a period of detailed planning. We will consult
with trade unions and individuals as plans get clearer next
year.
Will the councils merge to form one council?
No. These proposals do not threaten the sovereignty of the
individual councils.
Each will retain its own constitution, set its own council tax
and be answerable at election time to its own electorate.
All three councils are committed to continuing to represent the
needs of local people in their boroughs.
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