Make local services count
The government is proposing major changes to local services that will affect almost all UNISON members.

While aiming to increase participation and improve the co-ordination of local services, the 2006 white paper also signals a rapid acceleration in the marketisation of council services and in efficiency cuts.

UNISON is campaigning to strengthen local democracy, support high quality, publicly-provided services, and defend our members' interests.
Documents: Making local services count
Using the public sector equality duties
Date published:
A straightforward short activists guide to using equality to defend pay, jobs and services
Link to a PDF document on this siteAcrobat PDF version
A guide to local involvement networks (LINks)
Date published: 28 March 2008
A guide on LINks has been prepared for UNISON by the Democratic Health Network. This briefing equips activists with the knowledge to ensure the new system functions and that health and social care providers are held to account.
Link to a PDF document on this siteAcrobat PDF version
Make Local Services Count briefing
Date published:
Branch guide outlining the basics of Local Strategic Partnerships, Local Area Agreements and Comprehensive Area Assessments.

Link to a document on this siteAcrobat PDF version
New MLSC Briefing Powerpoint Presentation
Date published:
Powerpoint on local service reform – UNISON presentation on the government’s proposals to change the structure of local public service.

Microsoft PowerPoint may be necessary to run this slide.
Link to a PPS document on this sitePowerPoint Slide
Councillors Commission submission
Date published: 27 July 2007
A government’s 'Councillors' Commission' is looking into the incentives and barriers to serving on councils.And will report by November 2007. UNISON has responded
Link to a PDF document on this siteAcrobat PDF version
Local Government White Paper
Date published: 9 July 2007
Councillors briefing on local democratic changes
Link to a PDF document on this siteAcrobat PDF version
Making local services count briefing
Date published: 30 April 2007
Two versions of the briefing on the effects of the White Papers on UNISON with summary.
Link to a document on this siteLong version of the briefing [PDF]
Link to a document on this siteShort version of the briefing [PDF]
Timetable for Implementation
Date published: 20 February 2007
Link to a document on this siteAcrobat PDF version
New Unitary Authorities
Date published: January 2007
Link to a document on this siteAcrobat PDF version
Impact on Civil Society
Date published: 21 November 2006
Link to a document on this siteAcrobat PDF version
Contact details
• Email: localservices@unison.co.uk
• Write to: Make local services count, 1 Mabledon Place, London WC1H 9AJ
Strong and prosperous communities - The local government white paper
Local Government White paper
This new settlement between central government, local government and citizens aims to put in place the incentives and opportunities for local government and its partners to improve radically the services we receive and the places where we live. We want to make it easier for local government to focus on improvement and respond to rapidly changing circumstances. Councils must demonstrate that they can deliver better and more efficient services. They must also show that they are ready to make a fundamental change in attitudes and culture, engaging with citizens and working with their partners in new ways.

Rt Hon Ruth Kelly MP
Secretary of State for Communities & Local Government