The past few years have presented unprecedented challenges for local councils. Reduced funding from central government, increasing demands on them and rising costs has meant councils have to do more, with less.
Alongside these budgetary and demand challenges, Dudley Council has faced scrutiny reports from external bodies (the Local Government Association, the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy, and external auditors) which all identified a need for improvements. Areas pinpointed included the use of resources, the culture of the council, governance arrangements and the way services are delivered.
The council has responded to these challenges with a determination to make radical changes to the structure of the council, how it operates and the way in which services are provided to local people. It also has an urgent need to address the budgetary challenges and to create a balanced budget.
The first improvement phase during 2024 – badged as 'Fit for the Future' – resulted in some swift, significant and much needed savings across the council. The groundwork was also laid for the longer-term transformation of the council into a leaner, more cost effective, financially sustainable and efficient establishment, able to face future challenges. This work included the design of a new operating model which has community focus at the centre.
From early 2025, the council has moved to the next phase of its improvement journey, with the implementation of the formal Dudley Council Improvement Plan. Ratified by the council's Cabinet and Full Council meetings in late January 2025, the plan provides a clear vision on where the council is, where it wants to be and how it is going to get there, with solid actions and accountabilities. The needs of local people and businesses are at the heart of the plan.
The long-term plan will take time to put into place but there is a strong commitment within the organisation, and from elected members. It involves working closely with residents and organisations to make sure Dudley Council becomes a council that is working well and that everyone can rely on.
Key themes of the plan
The plan follows a co-design principle, meaning cross-council working (services all working together jointly – rather than in isolation), collaborative working, as well as joint working with other organisations (such as health, police, voluntary and community groups) and communities is at the heart of the plan.
It is based around the government's 'Best value standards for local authorities' and follows seven themes of good practice. These are:
- culture
- leadership
- governance
- service delivery
- use of resources
- continuous improvement
- partnerships and community engagement
Each of the seven themes has a number of core areas of work sitting under it, and each has its own clear action plan with key performance indictors which are monitored and tracked.
You can read the full Dudley Council Improvement Plan below, or the shorter summary document.