Given that 90% of the UK’s population lives on 10% of the land, it is extremely easy to forget that this is still a very rural country. However, there are many regions where remote living and the associated hazards of extreme weather conditions are a fact of ordinary life. In such areas, the need to deal with emergency situations occurs frequently and involves types of response that are seldom required in the more temperate heartlands of the country. 

By Richard Randall. Change can always be a little uncomfortable, even when the changes are for the greater good. On 15th November 2004, royal assent was secured on the updated Childrens Act and the legislative spine that would bring about whole-scale reform in the delivery of services to children was agreed. Social services and education departments were brought together under the banner of children’s services and would be required to work together, sharing information to secure better outcomes for children.

By David M Allen. Management theories come and go. Some achieve ‘flavour of the month’ status, but they too become history. The author offers thoughts about practical issues of management which have an immortal quality. His reflections on the replacement of traffic bollards expose common failures in organizational learning.

By David Page Regenerating a neighbourhood is a complex business and social issues can get less attention than physical regeneration. The author looks at the soft issues in regeneration programmes where there were concentrations of poverty and worklessness. Against a background of persistent social exclusion he suggests ways forward.

Research shows that schools perform to a higher standard when working in partnership with other organizations. Self governing Trust schools have equal status with Foundation schools but in addition they work with partners ranging from small local companies to public bodies such as local authorities or higher education establishments. This feature describes the benefits Trust schools bring to pupils and to the community.

By Rob Baggott The Alcohol Harm Reduction Strategy published in 2004 included the drinks industry as a key partner in tackling alcohol problems, but many professionals and agencies dealing with the consequences of alcohol misuse are skeptical. This feature charts the progress of the strategy. It describes how the drinks industry is seeking to meet its social responsibilities as well as protecting brand names and remaining competitive.

The Internet poses many risks for pupils using school technology. Issues such as cyberbullying, predator grooming and racism are a real and growing concern. Schools need to be vigilant about protecting pupils and preventing them from accessing unsuitable material. This feature describes how Norfolk County Council tackled the problem.

By David Hunter The third sector is set to play an increasing role in the delivery of public services particularly in employment training, children’s services, correctional services and education. The author examines the benefits and barriers of third sector involvement and describes how the trend is progressing. This article was first published in Public Management and Policy and is reproduced by permission of the Association. http://www.cipfa.org.uk/pmpa/index.cfm

By Jamie Bodley-Scott No longer do public bodies carry out their functions within an area defined by bricks and mortar. Partnership working means operating within other sets of walls. Mobile working means that staff use office facilities from many locations. Electronic walls have had to change to meet the developing situation and the data fence has had to move. The author describes how Watford Borough Council has successfully moved their data fence.

By Frances Crook Some 6500 children pass through various forms of custody each year and half of them require support. Their disadvantages range from mental health problems, drug use, violence at home and sexual abuse. Although legislation requires that support plans be in place before release, frequently the requirement is not met. The author presents the disturbing picture as it is seen by the Howard League for Penal Reform. This article was first published in Public Management and Policy and is reproduced by permission of the Association. http://www.cipfa.org.uk/pmpa/index.cfm