Blog Posts

  • Localism – Harston

    It was my pleasure to speak at a localism event in Harston yesterday. Much has been talked about localism. I think we can boil it down to devolving power and resources to the lowest APPROPRIATE level. I am keen that localism does not become another political mantra. It should be seen as a factor whenmaking Read more

  • Andy Harper show – an hour on radio – yesterday 1100hrs

    I had an enjoyable hour on the Andy Harper show yesterday. We discussed a range of issues with some probing questions from Andy. This show allows for a more conversational approach rather than the much short 5 mins on “Breakfast Time” radio. It is good to be challenged but can be slightly daunting when being Read more

  • Group Leaders meeting

    I had a regular meeting with the chief exec and the opposition group leaders. This is a good opportunity to get cross party agreement on non political matters. Generally, it is easier to take decisions with the leader of the Labour group as he and I are empowered by our groups to make decisions. It Read more

  • Data and research – valuable resource. Do we all understand its value?

    A challenging meeting today with a senior member of our research team. We forget how important to a large organisation data and information is. I guess we are used to searching google and expect to see it. The trouble is when we are trying to workout the most effective intervention point in say, reducing time Read more

  • Cambridgeshire Community Services – visit to unplanned care team

    A  really good look at CCS today. I spent some very valuable time discussing re-ablement with the team, in Cambridge, before going on to visit a service user. The lady we visited lived in sheltered accommodation, in Cambridge. At 91 this lady  would put a few people I know, who are a lot younger, to Read more

  • Busy day

    Today has been tied up with the recruitment process for the vacant Executive Director post in Communities and Adult Services directorate. Lots of interviews, presentations, tests etc etc for the candidates. A really thorough two day selection process put together by HR. Day one ran like clockwork despite me throwing curved balls into the process. Read more