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. The SW RIEP sits within the officer support structure of South West Councils.

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 between 2008/09 and 20010/11, subject to performance.

The SW RIEP supports authorities and other public bodies through fifteen workstreams. These programmes vary from bespoke support for authorities or services in difficulty, through regional programmes of support, to pump-priming for innovative or collaborative projects.