Can we get better services despite cuts in spending? 'Radical Efficiency' says... yes

21/06/2010

'We'll only be able to make radical approaches the norm if we support more public service professionals, communities and citizens to lead the efforts to save money and make services better.'

A new report published today by Innovation Unit and the National Endowment for Science, Technology and the Arts (NESTA) shows how it is possible to deliver better services whilst making savings of up to 60% in costs, but only by doing things differently.

'Radical Efficiency' outlines practical ways to deliver better and cheaper public services. This major research project has investigated hundreds of international examples - some of which are noted below - where groundbreaking innovation has solved age-old problems, at a much lower cost. From these, the report draws lessons for policymakers and practitioners for how we can make services radically better, rather than starting with what to cut. 

The report cites many examples of innovations that successfully achieve 'more for less', often by using new suppliers and  new resources and by allowing committed and passionate leaders to come from anywhere - including from the frontline of public services. It also argues that achieving long term service transformation will only be done by generating new insights and by re-evaluating who the customers really are.

Dr Michael Harris, leading the work for NESTA, says: 'We'll only be able to make these radical approaches the norm if we support more public service professionals, communities and citizens to lead the efforts to save money and make services better.'

Sarah Gillinson, the lead on the project adds, 'Let's take three examples of Radical Efficiency in action, one in health, one in crime, and one in unemployment. Applying these three single examples to the UK gives an estimated saving of £7.5 billion. All with added benefits for citizens. Imagine if we could apply it right across the board?'

Radical Efficiency is the basis for a new programme for NESTA's Public Services Lab, working with six Local Authorities to transform services for families with very young children. The programme will combine research with practice to support local innovators to save money and deliver better services.  

Notes to editors

For more information, please contact Catherine Anderson at NESTA on 020 7438 2609 or on email Catherine.Anderson@nesta.org.uk  or Katherine Tyler at Innovation Unit on 07581 186 504 or on email ktyler@tavi-port.nhs.uk

About Innovation Unit
Innovation Unit is a not-for-profit innovation organisation. We have a strong track record, built up over eight years, of supporting innovation in the third sector, education, children's services, and local government. Our job is to enable the people working in public services to innovate, helping them find new solutions to old problems.

About NESTA
NESTA is an independent body with a mission to make the UK more innovative to drive economic recovery and solve some of the UK's major social challenges. Our endowment status means we operate at no cost to the UK taxpayer.

NESTA is a world leader in its field and is in a unique position to support innovation through a blend of practical programmes, policy and research and investment in early-stage companies.