Decision details

Andrea McCaskie, Head of Law, was present to introduce the report and answer questions from Members.

It was noted that the date under “Trend analysis” on page 101 (page 9 of Appendix 1) was incorrect and should be 2009/10.

The Head of Law explained that the Legal Team’s effectiveness, economy and efficiency had been measured via the external standard CIPFA questionnaire. Evidence of customer satisfaction was provided by Heads of Service and case officers and the team discussed ad hoc feedback at its quarterly meetings. In accord with Management Team’s steer, the Legal Team would be reviewing the effectiveness of working with the planning service in 2015/16 as detailed in the continuous improvement plan.

The officer showed how a “mixed economy” approach by the team facilitated flexibility in the delivery of its services, enabling a scaling up and down as needed in terms of using temporary and part-time staff and external contractors.

RESOLVED:

That the Legal Services ‘value for money’ continuous improvement plan set out in Appendix 1 is approved.