When the CLG finally, finally, feels able to release the results of the ‘Place survey' data from last year, it will tell a salutary tale.
Despite considerable improvements in efficiency and effectiveness – as measured by inspectorates – overall ratings of local government will be down markedly, with average satisfaction levels likely to be around 46% – down on the 51% level of 2006, itself a fall from 2003.
The surveys took place at the tail end of 2008, with problems over children's social care hitting the deadlines, but the problem local government now faces is far more structural than that. Haringey is by no means the worse-rated London borough. What the Place surveys show is that there are some authorities which can buck the downward trend –Hackney and Hammersmith & Fulham both have seen rises.
Yet most are being dragged down by ongoing challenges over communications – ratings on this feature are not good – and even more importantly, on value for money.
Local government now effectively charges double what it did a decade ago for what, for many people, are similar services, with 100% council tax rises.
When the public are asked which services should be cut to help pay for our vast public debt, local council services come out top – not the NHS or education. After the general election, things will be worse, with council tax rises ruled out and cuts in more visible services.
We will then see more radical change, as politicians are forced to make difficult decisions about shared services to balance the books.
For me, the fact that strong leadership, effective communications and focus on key services for the public allows some councils to rise above the pack should be message enough for the rest of the sector, but the evidence seems to be that these are still in short supply.
