Applying Outcomes Based Accountability

A regional approach to applying Outcome Based Accountability in Children's Services Departments across the North East

This project involves one local authority learning from the expertise developed in another. Some local authorities in the North East have very positive experiences of Outcome Based Accountability (OBA) models and this project seeks to cascade these positive experiences so colleagues in other local authorities can also derive business benefits.
This project is part of the learning and sharing work-stream and has been produced by officers from Hartlepool Borough Council and Sunderland City Council.

The objectives of this project are to:

• Audit which local authorities have implemented an Outcome Based Accountability (OBA) model and those who have not;
• Undertake a benefits realisation study;
• Share the benefits identified from this study by designing a regional toolkit for dissemination;
• Encourage the principles of learning and mentoring amongst peer-groups
• Evaluate the business benefits derived from the project and any lessons learnt

The Department for Children, Schools & Families (DCSF) believe that local authorities can generate cashable and non-cashable savings as a result of making improvements in commissioning and procurement practice. The model of Outcomes Based Accountability is a mechanism for helping to deliver this objective. DCSF have produced examples of good practice in this field and this project seeks to build on the good work already undertaken by local authorities and cascade these benefits across the North East. It is argued that enhancing the knowledge base and expertise of local authorities in this field will better position local authorities to develop outcome based models and make (cashable and non-cashable) savings as a result. This project can deliver a number of business benefits.

Further detailed information regarding the project is available using the links below:

• OBA Key Facts
• OBA Project Initiation Document
• OBA Project Highlight Report - February 2009

Project Launch Event - 17 March 2009

A very successful project launch event took place on Tuesday 17 March at Hartlepool Historic Quay. The presentations and other supporting materials provided on the day is available to download using the links below:

• OBA Launch Event Programme
• OBA Project Brief
• OBA Project Template
• OBA Launch Opening Presentation
• OBA Launch Presentation 1 - Dr Andy Gill
• OBA Launch Presentation 2 - Coventry City Council

Project Evaluation

Following the completion of this project, Outcomes UK have produced an evaluation of the project including key recommendations for moving forward with outcomes based accountability in the region. A copy of the evaluation report is available to download here.