Housing schemes across the country held up because of the recession could get a share of more than 900 million pounds of public money to get them back on track. The Government is stressing, however, that the move is not a handout to developers and that the help would come with tough terms attached.

Read more on PUBLIC MONEY WILL KICKSTART STALLED HOUSING PROJECTS…

Social services leaders have welcomed a new consultation on the future of mental health services. The Association of Directors of Adult Social Services said it would be ‘the launchpad for a national debate on mental health and wellbeing, and a vision for services in 2020 designed to promote a mentally healthier society, while supporting those people who need specialist care and treatment.’

Read more on DIRECTORS TO STRESS ROLE OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT IN MENTAL WELLBEING…

This Audit Commission review of how schools procure goods and services concluded that it can’t be sure whether the taxpayer is getting value for money. The Commission is critical of school inspectors, governors and local councils.

Read more on IMPROVING EFFICIENCY IN SCHOOLS…