More people are satisfied with Bradford Council's services - which has helped clinch the local authority a three star performance rating.
Greater public satisfaction with key services and improved services to young people and the vulnerable have ensured the Council has once again been awarded three stars out of a possible four by the Audit Commission.
The latest judgement has also highlighted that:
There were some good outcomes for adults in need of services and for children and young people.
Older people have better support to continue to live at home.
Education results at Key Stage 2 and GCSE improved significantly, reducing the attainment gap.
The Council had some success in making Bradford a better place to live.
Slight increases in overall crime masked a reduction in violent offences and youth reoffending.
The Council improved the environment through increased rates of recycling and reducing landfill.
Improvements in processing planning applications and assisting more people into jobs aided regeneration.
Low Council Tax levels and continuing efficiency savings meant that value for money was adequate.
The Audit Commission described the overall picture for Bradford as being "mixed" and also pointed out that:
Child health and infant mortality remain a concern.
Benefits performance faltered during the year.
In addition the Audit Commission also judges the "direction of travel" for each local authority it reviews, and said that Bradford was "improving adequately."
Council leader Kris Hopkins said: "The Council can point to a significant number of key achievements in delivering better services for local people.
"Our results this year show real improvements in many areas, including education, our top priority.
"I am pleased that we have been recognised for our improvements and that our Council Tax is low compared to many other local authorities. We will be working harder than ever with our partners to carry on improving services for all residents in the District."
To assess the Council's performance the Audit Commission looks at:
Use of resources
Work with children and young people
Adult social care arrangements
Payment and collection of benefits
Cultural services
Environment services
Housing services
The Council's capacity to improve services.
The Audit Commission concludes: "The Council made good progress in changing the way it operates and by improving its capacity. This investment is an important step towards achieving priority outcomes. It engages with local people which should assist in making sure that priorities reflect local need."
For the full CPA judgement on Bradford Council or for more information about CPA visit www.audit-commission.gov.uk or www.bradford.gov.uk/cpa
Media Relations Officer:
Sue Butterfield
Telephone: 01274 433526
Fax: 01274 432005
Email: press.communications@bradford.gov.uk
Date: 7.02.08
