Discussion Group: Clearing the hurdles - challenges to overcome
James Hulme, Head of Communications, New Local Government Network

This discussion, facilitated by James Hulme of New Local Government Network, authors of 'The Politics of Shared Services' will assess the underlying barriers to a more successful shared service agenda. Issues for discussion will include:

- The lack of understanding around what shared services are
- The clarity and coherence of the long term strategy for shared services from Government and local government
- Political differences, worries over private sector involvement, job losses and the retention of local skills
- Putting in place the right incentives
- Roles for strategic organisations such as the LGA and Regional Centres of Excellence