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Why have a Local Strategic Partnership (LSP)
The Government’s modernisation agenda wants to see public organisations that are more accountable, listen to the public and are more effective in providing Best Value services to the community. To achieve this, different organisations need to work better together. They need to set common objectives for the area and plan together to ensure better co-ordination and effectiveness of what’s delivered on the ground. But most importantly they need to involve the community, voluntary and private sector.
The Government therefore promoted the establishment of LSPs in every local authority area to ensure a joint approach in addressing key issues like education, health, crime, employment, housing and the environment.
What is an LSP?
- A co-operative partnership of equals who work to a shared purpose and priorities
- A forum for debate and discussion on key issues for the area
- A strategic framework for the co-ordination and delivery of services
- Not a statutory body and does not have any executive powers
- Allows individual providers to retain responsibility and accountability for decisions on their own services and use of their resources
The Derwentside Partnership
Our LSP was established in November 2001. It has 36 representatives from the public, community, voluntary and business sector. Its strength lies in the strong representation of the community/voluntary sector. The 34% of community/voluntary representatives on the LSP is one of the highest amongst North East LSPs.
The Derwentside Partnership has a number of functions:
- Preparation and implementation of a community strategy, based on the views of the community, to improve the economic, social and environmental well-being of Derwentside;
- Bringing together other local plans, partnerships and initiatives to ensure co-ordination, effectiveness and efficiency;
- Working with local authorities to help meet government set targets for main services;
- Developing and delivering strategies to secure a better future through employment opportunities, better education, reduction of crime, improvement of health, better housing and a sustainable environment
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