Shared Services examples fail to fulfil promise

UNISON has warned the Scottish Government that unless 'shared services' are part of a strategy to improve public services rather than cut costs, they risk wasting public money.

The union points to international examples to back up its case. It has published a newsletter - Revitalise - as part of the campaign for better public services.

It points out that two much quoted international examples of shared services - in Wisconsin, USA and Western Australia - have suffered from a huge list of problems.

Dave Watson, UNISON Scotland's Organiser (Policy) said "There is now clear evidence that Shared Services need to be properly planned and have clear and achievable goals if they are to deliver the efficiencies that are often claimed for them.

"These examples highlight the risks that politicians can take when they fall for the spin and blandishments of salespeople with their own agenda."

The newsletter is being sent to all branches and is available on the website www.unison-scotland.org.uk/revitalise. Our response to the consultation on Shared Services is also on the website, click on Responses.

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