Efficiency Statements
We are very encouraged by the recent Annual Efficiency Statement submissions. The 2007/08 Forward Look returns forecast delivery by local authorities that will exceed the target set by Gershon.
Care Services Efficiency Delivery (CSED) and its specific sustainable efficiency workstreams are cited in over two thirds of the Forward Looking Annual Efficiency Statements submitted by councils as being the key drivers of efficiencies within their councils.
Much progress has been made. Through the CSED Programme, DH is working with many councils, to further develop and implement initiatives that were created in collaboration with councils to embed sustainable efficiencies in the delivery of social care, while maintaining or improving the quality of those services.
Background
CSED is encouraged that councils achieved efficiency savings of £111 million in 2004-05, which builds on the declared efficiencies of £202 million identified by councils for 2005-06. The Forward Looking Annual Efficiency Statements for 2006-07 (£213 million) & 2007-08 (£232 Million) forecast the Gershon target to be exceeded. This will be futher confirmed by the publication of the 2006-07 Backward Look (Actuals) Annual Efficiency Statements during the 3rd week in September, 2007.
Annual Efficiency Statements belong to councils and councils. Government Departments do not have the authority to amend them. We would also refer you to the disclaimer published on DCLG's web site, as follows: 'the documents and figures published are unedited by DCLG and results are not subject to endorsement by DCLG'.
While considerable progress has been made, the Department of Health (DH) recognises the challenge for many councils in achieving sustainable efficiencies which drive quality improvements for people who need care.
In relation to any cash releasing efficiencies, we would emphasise that it is important to ensure that quality of service to people receiving care is not compromised in the process. Through the Care Services Efficiency Delivery (CSED) Programme, DH has worked collaboratively with many councils, completing an extensive programme to identify areas where councils can make sustainable efficiencies while maintaining or improving the quality of social care delivery..