Avoid outsourcing services unless there ’s a clear public benefit, says UNISON

A future Labour government should do all it can to bring outsourced contracts in health, education, police and councils back in-house, says a new report from UNISON today (Friday).Any decisions by public bodies to privatise essential services should have to pass a key public interest test, according to the research. This means the running of important local services should only be offered up to private contractors if there is deemed genuinely to be a public benefit.The test that contracts should have to pass would include the following points: Value for money The quality of the service that would be delivered The effects on workers’ job conditions such as pay and holiday entitlements Any implications for other public services and their budgets The impact on the local economy and its job market The ability of the contractor to meet climate targets and equality considerations. UNISON general secretary Christina McAnea said: “Local services are always best provided by publicly accountable organisations that are based in the local communities they serve.“But central government has put the squeeze on health, care and school budgets, causing local councils and hospitals to put key contracts out to tender to reduce costs.“This isn’t good for anyone. Essential public services should be run for the public, not to make a profit for shareholders.”Notes to editors:– The report was presented at a fringe event at UNISON’s national conference, whic...
Source: UNISON Health care news - Category: UK Health Authors: Tags: News Press release outsourcing public services Source Type: news