CPSP@LGiU Director John Tizard calls for a “reality check” in The Guardian Public:
Grants and new contracts are going to be offered on lower levels of payment – that much is certain. In their hearts, trustees and staff will want to continue existing service levels for beneficiaries.
Being candid, however, those in charge must also engage ‘heads’ and be very clear about their organisations sustainability and what can be delivered for the available money. Now is the time for the sector as a whole and organisations in it to seek to influence the decisions of commissioners and the political and managerial leaders in local government and other local agencies.
At the same time, the sector must explain to users and members why any service reductions have to be made – and to clients, the consequences of its financial position. Truthfully, if the funding is unrealistic, organisations will have to be prepared to stop delivering a service.
