Barnet Council has begun a review of its relationship with technology and business services company Capita, indicating there could be a “realignment” involving some services being taken in-house.
Its policy and resources committee has approved the review, which is expected to lead to the development of a business case during the autumn. This will test all the options in a report submitted to the committee.
The council has two major contracts with Capita, to deliver back office services and development and regulatory services. It said these have delivered significant financial savings since their commencement in 2013, as well as efficiencies and improvements across a range of services. But it added that improvements in performance are needed for other services.
Services earmarked for a potential return to the council include finance, strategic HR, management of land and property, highways, regeneration, strategic planning and cemeteries and crematoriums.
Barnet indicated that others are likely to stay with Capita, including revenues and benefits, planning applications, IT and customer services.
Service priorities
Leader of Barnet Council Richard Cornelius said: “Our priority is to deliver good quality, value for money services to our residents. Many things are working well and it’s right that we build on them. Where this is not the case, changes are needed.
"The committee has agreed the proposed review to realign services delivered under the Capita contracts. The review will develop more detailed proposals that will be brought back to committee in the autumn.
"It’s important to stress that any changes will only be recommended on the basis that they provide a good deal for the Barnet taxpayer.”
Jonathan Prew, managing director, local public services for Capita, said: “The review is an opportunity to respond to changing circumstances and needs that have evolved over the last five years to ensure that a future partnership is focused on providing services that will deliver best value for residents and all stakeholders.
“Our partnership has achieved significant financial benefits and we continue to be focused on strengthening our performance where we need to and delivering quality services across the borough.”
Image by Grim23, CC BY-SA 3.0 from Wikimedia Commons
