Local Strategic Partnerships (LSPs) are single non-statutory bodies that bring together local public, private, community and voluntary organisations, generally at the level of District, County and Unitary councils. They work with the local community to identify and tackle key issues such as crime, unemployment, education, health and housing in a more co-ordinated manner than has happened before.
More information on the national picture
The aim of an LSP is to improve the quality of life of the local population by working together and co-ordinating activities. In this way, public services will be delivered more in accordance with local need, and people will be more able to influence decision-making to improve their neighbourhoods.
Another aim is to help members of the LSP cut down on bureaucracy and waste, and to introduce new ways of working such as sharing information and budgets. There are 45 Local Strategic Partnerships in the South West, including one in each of the areas receiving neighbourhood renewal funding (Bristol, Plymouth, Kerrier and Penwith).
Community Strategies
The Local Government Act 2000 also places local authorities under a duty to prepare a Community Strategy. A Community Strategy should enhance the quality of life of local communities through action to improve the economic, social and environmental well being of an area and its inhabitants. It provides a means of joining-up services and tackling cross-cutting issues in a coherent and integrated way. The Local Strategic Partnership plays a significant role in developing the Community Strategy. The LSP is also instrumental in the negotiation of Local Area Agreements (where they exist).
Government Office role
We work with LSPs by:
- providing general advice and guidance and facilitating access to more specialist advice
- reviewing and challenging performance against local targets and national PSA targets
- facilitating and supporting networks, seminars and other events
- working with local agencies to promote the LSP and its work
- providing links with regional bodies and
- providing links to central government and ensuring Government policies are considered.
Information on the community strategies for local authorities can be found on the individual authorities' websites below.
