Friday 22 May 2009

On Monday, as the CLT lead and Corporate Sponsor, I chaired the first meeting of the Workplace Transformation Programme Board. I am really excited about this following the approval at the IE on Wednesday of last week for this programme. As you will all be aware, 2008/09 was one of transition for all staff and services and we have always highlighted that the coming year would represent the beginning of transformation of our services as we develop to deliver improved customer outcomes and adapt to ensure we maximise the opportunities of the area working agenda and join our delivery up locally. Personally, I have already witnessed and heard from many of you about your desire to move forward with this.

A large part of the Workplace Transformation Programme will be focused on ensuring that we build on the exciting plans many services are already considering, such as the FOCUS Programme in adult social care and the development of enhanced approaches to Ways of Working to maximise the benefits and opportunities of flexible and mobile working. Now that members have confirmed that we should move forward based on a four hub model, which will ensure we are able to deliver high quality cost effective office accommodation that meets our future needs whilst delivering cashable savings for the council, I recognise the considerable engagement and involvement that will be required of staff across the council as this programme of activity will affect us all. As part of this, I and the other Corporate Directors have already identified a lead senior manager to represent our departments within the Programme. The Programme will run for five or more years with the initial phase, which is focused on Bourne Hill and the Salisbury area due to be fully competed by September 2010 and the Trowbridge hub by early 2014.

Now that members have approved the approach and we can be confident that funding is available I am keen that we launch the programme properly and this will include some large scale 'events' for staff over the next two or three months, starting with one for staff in Salisbury area that I hope will be held towards the end of June. This will be additional to the usual communication channels such as a regular series of briefing notes, DLT discussions and staff workshops. I am sure that as the programme develops we will not only improve the working environment and opportunities for all our staff, but will also be better placed to deliver in the ways that best meet the needs of our customers and allow us to respond positively to opportunities and challenges over the coming years.

Have a great bank holiday weekend and speak again next week.

Carlton