Best Value

What is Best Value?

The Government introduced Best Value in April 2000 as part of a wider commitment to modernise public services.  Under Best Value, all councils are required to demonstrate that their services are efficient, cost effective and meet the needs of the community. 

Best Value is about striving for continuous improvement in our services and performance.  We carry out scrutiny reviews which challenge our services, policies and performance and aim to keep us focussed on local priorities.  These reviews are carried out in accordance with the principles of best value and can involve consultation with key stakeholders, comparison with other similar service providers and investigating whether there are any realistic alternative options for delivering services in the future.  Further details of the review process can be found in the Scrutiny Review Toolkit.

For more information about Best Value or to find out about any of the reviews, please contact the Corporate Performance Officer on performance@lewes.gov.uk or go to our Scrutiny Committee information.

Reviews in 2003/04

Promoting the Local Economy

Considering the Council's role in supporting and promoting the local economy and how strategies and services can be improved and better co-ordinated.

Reviews in 2002/03

Housing

A review of the range of housing services provided by the Council including possible options for the future management of the Council's housing stock.

Emergency Planning

A joint review with East Sussex County Council and the other districts and boroughs in East Sussex on improving multi agency emergency planning arrangements and our own arrangements.

Reviews in 2001/02

Local Amenities

Looking at a range of local facilities and amenities including cap parks, public conveniences, parks and open spaces, allotments and cemeteries and Seaford Head Golf Course.  This review had been the subject of a Government Inspection report. 

The Democratic Process

Looking at the democratic process including elections and electoral registration, services provided to elected Members including their allowances and payments and the decision-making process, and the Council's press and public relations service.

Information Systems

Looking at the Council's IT operation in the development of the Council's approach to Electronic Government.

Corporate Purchasing

Looking at how the Council buys in goods and services and the development of the Council's strategy on procurement, including electronic procurement.

Reviews in 2000/01

The Building Maintenance Unit

The work and operation of the Council's in-house Building Maintenance Unit, which carries out a range of repairs and maintenance work, primarily to Council housing property.

Environmental Stewardship

The Council's approach to environmental stewardship focussing on its approach to recycling, Local Agenda 21 issues and its own internal Eco- Management and Audit Scheme.  This review has been the subject of a Government Inspection.

Community Development

The effectiveness of current joint working with local groups and the voluntary sector and the provision of services for youth and older people.

Electronic Service Delivery

The Council's capability for electronic service delivery within Government targets, looking at electronic communications, website services and Electronic Government.

The Public Health Function

Looking at a range of the Council's public health services such as food control, pollution, licensing, pest control and health & safety.