Open Public Services in the UK 2013

* Policy paper: Open Public Services 2013 - executive summary. Cabinet Office, 2013

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Summary

"We believe that more open public services can benefit everybody in the UK and that finding ways to deliver better services for less money is a challenge that is common to all four nations of the UK. The scope of this paper is UK wide, but in devolved areas of policy it is for the devolved administrations to determine their own approach to public service reform. The three devolution settlements in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are all different although, in general, services such as health, education and those provided by local government are under devolved control. If you live or work in any of the devolved territories and are in any doubt as to which of these reforms would apply there, the relevant territorial office will be able to advise you.

We are committed to working in partnership with the devolved administrations to share good practice and to explore whether our approach would suit their particular circumstances and need.

When the Coalition first came to power, the state was still the default provider of most public services. From poor performing schools to widening health inequalities, there were clear signs that the old centralised model of public service delivery was unable to meet the complex needs of the 21st century.

The landscape in which public services operate is shifting rapidly. Fiscal pressures and demographic changes are making new demands on public services. At the same time, people’s expectations for more reliable and personalised public services are higher than ever. If we are to meet these challenges, we need innovation - fostered by an open environment - in which service provision is contestable and accountable so those providing the service have the scope and incentive to be imaginative and effective. Through the Open Public Services programme, we are releasing the grip of state control and putting power into people’s hands."

More Information

• the Open Public Services programme, https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/open-public-services-2013-update/open-public-services-2013-executive-summary