The South West Regional Improvement and Efficiency Partnership (SW RIEP) was set up by authorities in June 2006 as a “hub” to drive innovation and progress against regional priorities and to share information and knowledge in conjunction with other public sector bodies and support agencies. Previously known as “LIFT SW”, it has a good track record supporting authorities to deliver change in the region.
South West Priorities for the RIEP:
• Ageing well and receiving the right support
• Enthusiasm for locality as a place to live, work and bring up a family
• The opportunity to obtain skills and get a good job
• Ensuring that local views and participation matter
The national network of nine RIEPs work closely to minimise duplication and all are funded by central government, which means that much of the support available is provided free of charge. The SW RIEP will receive £23m over the next three years, subject to performance.
The SW RIEP supports authorities and other public bodies through an number of workstreams. These vary from bespoke support for authorities or services in difficulty, through regional programmes of support, to pump-priming for innovative or collaborative projects: key themes being CSR07 efficiency gains, LAA priority outcomes, community empowerment and economic leadership.
The programmes will improve regional performance and will support authorities to deliver up to £60m of efficiency gains, over half of which will come from the smarter procurement programme.
Authorities and other agencies are also invited to contact the SW RIEP as a “first port” of call about a wide range of improvement or efficiency subjects.
