Strategic Engagement Officer, Herts CVS
For those who may have not heard of the Comprehensive Spending Review (CSR), a quick definition: A Spending Review is the government’s allocation of money to government departments, based on government priorities. The departments are then free to distribute the money as they see fit. The 20th of October 2010 is the date that has been set for the next CSR which is going to cover the four years from 2011/12 to 2014/15.
Given the recessionary environment and austerity measures, the 20th of October is being anticipated with a certain air of dread. While this is completely understandable, the optimist in me would like to believe that it may not spell the doom that it is expected to – if we maintain a sense of perspective, that is. This may not be a popular view however someone has to look on the bright side. Call me delusional if it helps.
Despite the optimism, I can’t help noticing that a lot of activity on the Funding/ Public Sector/ Contract renewal front seems to have ground to a halt with most keeping their cards very close to their chests. I suppose this too, is understandable given that nobody really knows what to expect. We may have broad ideas but the devil is truly in the detail. The words ‘calm before the storm’ come to mind. However, experts say that the centre (eye?) of the storm is the calmest place. I would like to suggest that a good strategy would be to move to the centre of the ‘ storm’ and become more involved with the bigger picture – partnerships (in whatever form) will become increasingly important and the strength that numbers can bring should not be underestimated. ‘Consortium’ is the new buzz word. ‘Vacuums’ have no place here – and I’m not referring to the Hoover!
Earlier this week, I heard someone say “we live in a world where opportunities are cunningly disguised as insoluble problems”. Priceless articulation of a well-known, but often forgotten fact. Hard times and times of change will inevitably throw up a number of opportunities. For example: Some Public sector organisations will be outsourcing elements of their services. Are there any services that your organisation (regardless of sector) would be able to provide better and most importantly, more efficiently? Cheaper doesn’t necessarily mean better. Credibility is key.
The Spending Review will also examine non-departmental spending that cannot be firmly fixed over a number of years, for instance: social security, tax credits, some elements of local authority spending and Lottery funding. Policy relating to some of these areas is already shrouded in controversy. The 20th will, hopefully, reveal all.
Sneak peek: As a result of a consultation, The Chancellor has announced three of the suggestions submitted by members of the public that will be taken forward:
- a more common sense approach to Criminal Record Bureau (CRB) checks for junior doctors thereby reducing the costs incurred by the NHS when a junior doctor moves position as part of their training;
- piloting an online auction site for surplus and second hand Government equipment, with the money made reinvested in public services; and
- replacing the plastic National Insurance number card with a letter reducing costs.
