The Beacon Scheme was set up to disseminate best practice in service delivery across local government. Each year, the Government selects themes for the beacon scheme. Themes are chosen because of their importance in the day-to-day lives of the public and are key to improving the quality of life in all our communities.
All best value authorities can apply to become a beacon. The final decision is made by government ministers based on recommendations made by an independent advisory panel. Beacon status is held for just over a year. During this period the authority shares its good practice through a series of learning exchanges, open days, peer support and other learning activities.
Obtaining Beacon status is a prestigious and sought after achievement. But the real value of the Beacon Scheme lies in the fact that it is far more than just another award. Beacon authorities will share experience and knowledge that has been painstakingly gathered over a period of years and will be at the cutting edge of policy development. Beacons act as a catalyst for improvement right across the sector, helping to improve the public services that we depend upon, day by day.
Wakefield has been part of the Beacon Scheme since the very first round back in 1999, when we were successful achieving in partnership with Barnardo’s, Beacon Status on the theme of “Helping Young People Leaving Care”.
Round Seven Beacons were announced in March 2006. Wakefield was successful in achieving Beacon Status on two themes. Please follow these links for information about these services:-
and
The Minister for Local Government, Phil Woolas, also launched round eight. The guidance for Round Eight of the Beacon Scheme can be found under 'Downloads'.
Wakefield Council has submitted applications on the following themes:-
- Emergency Planning
- School Improvement
the application documents can be found under 'Downloads'
How to get in touch with the Beacon Co-ordinator
By phone: 01924 305107
In person: Town Hall, Wood Street, Wakefield, WF1 2HQ
Please note that to see the Beacon Co-ordinator, an appointment is required.
By email: beacon@wakefield.gov.uk
By post: Joanne Battye, Strategic Planning & Performance Service Manager, Wakefield Council, Town Hall, Wood Street, Wakefield, WF1 2HQ
Further Information
The IDeA administers the Beacon Scheme on behalf of the Government. Further information on the Beacon Scheme can be found on the IDeA website at: http://www.idea.gov.uk.
Additional information can be found on the website of the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) at: http://www.communities.gov.uk
