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Voluntary Sector North West
St. Thomas Centre
Manchester
M12 6FZ
Tel: 0161 276 9300
Fax: 0161 276 9301
Email: info@vsnw.org.uk
Audit Commission: nothing but the truth?
16 November 2009
The high-profile failure of public authorities to both safeguard Baby Peter in Haringey, and prevent the high number of deaths in Mid-Staffordshire NHS Foundation Trust, has directed attention to the accuracy and reliability of the data underpinning local service delivery.
It is not a matter of quantity; there is more data about services than can realistically be used. Yet the public lacks trust in the institutions that govern and serve it - and this mistrust extends to the information they provide.
The Audit Commission exists to reassure the public that local public bodies are spending their money well and achieving positive outcomes in local communities. The Commission has a role in assessing the quality of data in local public services.
This paper sets out important issues as the basis for discussion on how to ensure data about local public services is fit for purpose. It asks if citizens, along with frontline staff, managers, politicians, central government and local public service regulators, can have confidence in the data they rely on. And if not, what needs to be done about it?
To read and respond to the discussion paper visit: http://www.audit-commission.gov.uk/communitysafety/nationalstudies/Pages/nothingbutthetruth_copy.aspx
Featured Event
Influencing Parliament with the Communities and Local Government Select Committee
As part of the Parliamentary Outreach and VSNW 'Get Involved' series of events, this event will explore:
►What Parliament is and what it does
►How groups can effectively engage with Parliament
►Insights from a Specialist Clerk from the House of Commons Communities and Local Government Select Committee
Featured News
Listen Value Invest campaign is launched at the Houses of Parliament
The Listen Value Invest campaign was launched in a special event at the Houses of Parliament last week.
Demonstrating the local economic and social value of grant-making with the VCS
This new 'think piece' from the Centre for Local Economic Strategies, commissioned by VSNW, explores the shift from grants to contracts, and the value of grant-making within the voluntary and community sector.
North West Mental Wellbeing Survey
North West Mental Wellbeing Survey - a major new survey of 18,500 residents in the North West has been published.
Events & Trainings
VSNW’s list of events & training opportunities for VCS groups in the North West
