Four additions to Best Value indicators

In an unusual interpretation of “streamlining”, the Best Value
Performance Indicators 2003/2004 consultation paper published
last week announced the addition of four social services indicators
and the removal of just one old one.

The new indicators are waiting time for assessments, waiting time
for care packages, reducing teenage conception rates, and
participation in drug and treatment programmes. Social services
departments will no longer be required to measure the percentage of
adult clients receiving a review.

Local government minister Nick Raynsford said the government had
substantially reduced the number of Best Value indicators a year
ago and had decided not to make radical changes this year because
councils needed consistent data to make year-on-year
comparisons.

The government committed itself to reducing red-tape and
streamlining Best Value in the Strong Local Leadership –
Quality Public Services white paper, published in December.