Developing ‘Fit for the future’ organisations


As authorities consider the organisation they require to deliver public services in the future, we have assisted their planning with direct support to planning, comparative information and research. Expertise in job evaluation, grading and pay review processes appropriate for all levels of the organisation means that we have been able to supplement capacity within organisations at peak periods to establish robust and fair frameworks for new structures.


What we’ve done: • facilitated the development of reorganisation proposals


• established links with the health sector to plan the transfer of public health staff and service responsibilities


• advised three authorities in developing shared management arrangement between partner authorities


What next:


The sector’s learning in developing new organisational models is being shared across the regions to reduce the research burden.


Sharing excellence in developing skills


Whilst there are significant workforce changes and challenges, the North West remains committed to investing in the skills of their workforce to improve flexibility, individual opportunities, service delivery and capacity within the wider local economy.


What we’ve done:


• 90% North West councils have signed up to the North West Skills / national pledge


• 60% North West councils have achieved the NW Skills Award (‘Excellence’ level for national Get On award)


• North West Skills Award has successfully helped councils evaluate skills strategies and share good practice


• run ‘masterclass’ events providing skill development solutions and learning champions


What next: Linking skills audits to shared talent pools to enhance mobility during significant organisational change.


Graham Burgess Chief Executive, Blackburn with Darwen BC


Improving productivity and cost efficiency


Helping to secure efficiency improvements through joint development work, facilities that improve service delivery and reduce costs and web based access to good practice information and assistance. We have successfully invested in developing or procuring resources that all authorities can access at no cost. Most facilities are available on line to enable local access that fits your particular needs.


What we’ve done:


• Created access to an e-recruitment and talent management portal for all North West councils with no procurement costs


• Created web based self assessment tools for skills and workforce strategies


What next: Improve information transfer and opportunities for collaborative working through an ‘employer zone’ on our website and the North West Connex platform.


Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council, in the very recent past, greatly valued the expert and constructive advice given by North West Employers to us during sensitive senior management restructurings. This advice contributes greatly to the successful outcome of this process.


The North West Skills Award has been an effective vehicle for us to restate our commitment to skills development and skills for life during a time of transformational change and uncertainty. We have valued the ongoing support of North West Employers in enabling us to achieve such a positive outcome in this, our first assessment.


Charlie Parker Chief Executive, Oldham Council


Our year at a glance 9


...I feel Oldham, through the Skills Award, are more focused on preparing for the recovery and working smarter with a more educated and versatile workforce.


Stephen Hewitt unionlearn Co-ordinator


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