South Derbyshire District Council - Award winning partnership prompts nationwide rollout

24 January 2012

A successful partnership between South Derbyshire District Council and Northgate Public Services has resulted in the addition of South Bucks District Council to Northgate’s Midlands Regional Business Centre. South Bucks will now receive Revenues and Benefits Services through Northgate – bringing a host of benefits to the local community and building efficiencies into the service for the long term.

Northgate’s Midlands Regional Business Centre in Swadlincote, South Derbyshire, was set up to provide business transformation services for both public and not-for-profit organisations throughout the Midlands and nationally. As well as providing Corporate Services for South Derbyshire District Council, it is now delivering Revenues and Benefits services to South Bucks District Council residents over the next seven years.

The service, which has already created 13 jobs and is valued at £5.5 million, is expected to create a host of benefits for South Bucks – already a high performing authority that aims to offer an increased personalised service for its residents. The service will enable the Council to make significant efficiency savings – essential in meeting the challenges of the future – achieved through a range of improvements designed to enhance the customer experience. Improved enquiry-handling and fast track benefit claims are just two of the benefits local residents can expect to see.

This will be achieved through a partnership bringing together the experienced Client Team at South Bucks and the transformation expertise from Northgate Public Services.

Dave Meaden, CEO Northgate Public Services comments: “These are difficult times for councils across the UK as they face increased demand and pressure on resources. Northgate Public Services is dedicated to transforming the way that services relate to people and their needs, while reaching out to the most disadvantaged. We are proud that South Bucks District Council shares our values and our vision to deliver more with less by becoming part of our Midlands Regional Business Centre in South Derbyshire, which is going from strength to strength.”

Jim Burness, Director of Resources at South Bucks District Council, said: “We are always looking to deliver the best service to our residents by being open to partnerships that deliver efficiency and economy. The Council is also not afraid to embrace proven new ways of working, adopting innovative practices and new approaches.”

“Our working relationship with Northgate Public Services is built upon trust and a commitment to meet the increased needs and expectations of local communities. This will allow us to offer strong value for money, high performing revenues and benefits services and puts us in a good position to deal with forthcoming changes to these services.”

Cllr Bob Wheeler, Leader of South Derbyshire District Council, said: “We fully support our partners in bringing their knowledge and expertise to the area to achieve benefits for our residents. The Council is delighted to be creating local jobs and economic opportunities through this innovative venture with Northgate Public Services. Other organisations are standing up and taking notice of the District’s blossoming reputation.”

Building on South Derbyshire District Council’s Success

Northgate Public Services already provides Corporate Services to South Derbyshire in a partnership that has already created 27 new jobs in the District in the first year alone, with more to come, and will save SDDC £2.1m in cashable savings over the lifetime of the seven year contract, significant savings for a local Council.

In February 2011, the Northgate / SDDC partnership was recognised for its significant achievements in improving service delivery and reducing costs to the taxpayer by receiving the Government Business Outsourcing Award 2011. Northgate is now keen to see this recognition replicated in other areas of the UK, including South Bucks.

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