Idox Information Service Weekly Bulletin No 1129 08 Nov 2018 Our weekly bulletin contains a selection of research reports, journal articles and new books chosen by our research team and added to our database in the last week. If you have a query about any of these documents, or any other aspect of our service, please contact us on [email protected]or 0141 574 1920. Click on the headings to jump to a section. CONTENTS New Government Publications ...........................................................................................................................2 Government, politics and public administration ................................................................................................3 Equalities and diversity........................................................................................................................................6 Business and economy ........................................................................................................................................7 Employment, jobs and careers ............................................................................................................................8 Education and skills .............................................................................................................................................8 Housing.................................................................................................................................................................9 Planning, development and property .............................................................................................................. 12 Environment...................................................................................................................................................... 13 Transport, infrastructure and communications............................................................................................... 14 Regeneration and community development ................................................................................................... 14 Health and social care....................................................................................................................................... 15 Crime, justice and rights ................................................................................................................................... 16 Obtaining full-text material .............................................................................................................................. 17
Transcript
Idox Information Service Weekly Bulletin No 1129 08 Nov 2018
Our weekly bulletin contains a selection of research reports, journal articles and new books chosen by our research team and added to our database in the last week.
If you have a query about any of these documents, or any other aspect of our service, please contact us on [email protected] or 0141 574 1920.
Click on the headings to jump to a section.
CONTENTS New Government Publications ...........................................................................................................................2
Government, politics and public administration ................................................................................................3
Equalities and diversity ........................................................................................................................................6
Business and economy ........................................................................................................................................7
Employment, jobs and careers ............................................................................................................................8
Education and skills .............................................................................................................................................8
Transport, infrastructure and communications............................................................................................... 14
Regeneration and community development ................................................................................................... 14
Health and social care ....................................................................................................................................... 15
Crime, justice and rights ................................................................................................................................... 16
Obtaining full-text material .............................................................................................................................. 17
New Government Publications This is a list of government guidance, consultation papers, etc, on topics relevant to our members, published in the previous week. They are all on the web and the web addresses were checked on the Wednesday preceding the date of this Bulletin. Department of Health and Social Care Prevention is better than cure: our vision to help you live well for longer
Scottish Government Tackling air pollution: Professor Campbell Gemmell to chair an independent review of Scotland's air quality strategy (news release)
Community right to buy abandoned, neglected or detrimental land: information for landowners and creditors
Community right to buy abandoned, neglected or detrimental land: information for communities
Clinical pathways and guidance for healthcare professionals working to support adults who present having experienced rape or sexual assault in Scotland (Consultation)
Financial health checks begin: more people to have access to personalised financial advice (news release)
Investing in research and innovation: £5 million to support links between academic research and industry (news release)
Welsh Government New code to support rural schools comes into force (news release)
Hollowed out: the impact of financial localisation on neighbourhood services Association for Public Service Excellence (APSE)
(Report available on the internet at: http://ow.ly/ecmE30mn5b2)
2018 Pages: 28 Publisher’s price: na
Explores future prospects for neighbourhood services delivered by local authorities in light of the localisation of local government funding. Explains that neighbourhood services primarily cover local government services which are not part of education and social care, and include transport, environment and planning. Looks at the funding of local government to 2019/20, including sources/components and the pressures on core spending power of local authorities. Considers the localisation of business rates, how well it meets local need and the risks involved for local authorities. Looks at neighbourhood services to 2020, including the way in which spending reductions have been managed and their future impact on service delivery. Presents conclusions and makes five propositions to local government leaders on action to defend neighbourhood services. GRANTfinder Ref No: B51702
2018 Budget Breakdown GRANTfinder
2018 Pages: 6 Publisher’s price: na
Provides an overview of the Autumn Budget 2018. Explains that the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Philip Hammond, chose to bring forward the Budget due to the precarious state of UK/EU negotiations. Notes that over the next five years, the Chancellor has authorised £30 billion of extra spending needed to honour pledges already made by the Prime Minister to end austerity and boost spending on health, education, local authority housing, and other public services. Discusses key announcements, including that: the NHS will receive £20.5 billion in real terms per year by 2023-24; there will be a further £650 million in social care grant funding for English councils in 2019/20; a digital services tax will be introduced from April 2020, which is expected to raise £400 million in 2021-22; and small firms will receive £695 million of funding to help hire apprentices. Concludes by stating that in the event of a ‘No Deal’, the Chancellor would be tasked with balancing a commitment to ending austerity with the need to prevent the UK from falling into a widely-predicted recession. Reform Ref No: B51676
Government beyond Brexit: the state of the state 2018-19 Reform
(Report available on the internet at: http://ow.ly/Jgji30mviQm)
2018 Pages: 56 Publisher’s price: na
Explores the key issues and challenges affecting the public sector in the UK, drawing on the results of a citizen survey and interviews with public sector leaders. Provides key statistics relating to the UK public sector focusing on government spending and income. Looks at the state of public finances, focusing on action to reduce government debt and the short to medium term outlook for government expenditure and revenue. Presents the findings of the citizen survey on a range of issues including the impact of austerity policy and views on government taxation/spending and public services. Outlines the views of public sector leaders on key themes including the spending outlook, Brexit, and public sector reforms. Summarises specific issues relating to Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales.
Keep the benefits: if universal credit is to succeed, the government must act now, IN Economist, Vol 429 No 9115 27 Oct - 2 Nov 2018, pp25-26 Journal article.
(Article available on the internet at: http://ow.ly/3dim30mpBrq)
2018 Pages: 2
Looks at problems with universal credit. Summarises the scale of the changes being made with its introduction. Identifies the advantages of the new system, and describes the problems with its implementation. Reflects on the implications for claimants. Discusses fears for the impact of the transition of existing benefits claimants to the new system. Examines the differences between the original conception of the scheme and what has actually been introduced as regards making work pay, suggesting that the government has come to see it as a way to save money. Notes that while universal credit may help to get people into work many will see large drops in their incomes. Considers the options to address the problems, including reverting to the old system, concluding that the best approach may be to tweak the system, with additional funding, which may also have public support. Miller, Rob; Fisher, Lorna Ref No: A62672
Our open source ethos offers taxpayers value (innovation in local government), IN Local Government, No 7734 25 Oct 2018, pp14-15 Journal article.
2018 Pages: 2
Looks at innovation in local government. Reports on Hackney’s digital transformation stressing how this is based on the principle of working in the open; outlines how this approach is manifested in the provision of information on the council’s work, and collaboration with others in the sector and internally; describes the strengthening of in-house technology capabilities and work with smaller firms, and the opening of data to allow the council or third parties to build new digital services; concludes that the council shares all research and service designs with the view that open source can have a dramatic impact on public services. Discusses efforts by Buckinghamshire County Council to develop a strategy to boost teacher recruitment and retention. Addresses the methods used to gather data and develop the strategy, and how this was implemented. Notes the obstacles to engagement with schools, and gathering data, and reflects on feedback and the success of the strategy. Bunn, Jon Ref No: A62671
The agenda: Brexit (Brexit and local authorities), IN Local Government, No 7734 25 Oct 2018, pp10-13 Journal article.
2018 Pages: 4
Considers the potential impact of Brexit on local authorities. Looks at the extent to which councils have prepared for Brexit, suggesting that a majority have not, noting the barriers to doing this while arguing that it is possible. Discusses concerns that councils have been kept in the dark about the impact of Brexit on their area. Uses a survey of local authority’s views of the likely impact of Brexit. Notes government consultation with local authorities on the matter, but finds that they feel that they have not had adequate information; Reflects on the potential for positive and negative impacts and what preparations are being made. Considers what councils could do. Explores the advantages of free trade zones and their potential to rebalance the economy and empower the regions. Defines free trade zones and assesses their potential. Argues that they could work with or without Brexit, and suggests that local and regional government should start looking at how they could work.
Kindness, emotions and human relationships: the blind spot in public policy Carnegie UK Trust
(Report available on the internet at: http://ow.ly/LTHi30msk7I)
2018 Pages: 48 Publisher’s price: na
Explores the way in which issues relating to kindness, emotions and human relationships are dealt with in public policy. Outlines three key challenges facing public policy: how to improve outcomes; building trust and confidence; and encouraging behavioural change. Describes the two different lexicons used in public policy, looks at the history of kindness in UK public policy over the last 30 years and considers the role of emotions in public policy. Considers why kindness matters in public policy and outlines the key challenges faced in integrating kindness and emotions more fully. Provides closing reflections highlighting the drivers for change and the key factors to address in building a movement for change. Anon Ref No: B51703
Solving poverty after Brexit Joseph Rowntree Foundation (JRF)
(Report available on the internet at: http://ow.ly/6F0N30mpsAJ)
2018 Pages: 1 Publisher’s price: na
Explores ways to address poverty in the UK following the country's departure from the EU. Outlines the reasons why solving poverty is important, highlighting support for leaving the EU among different socio-economic groups. Nearly four million workers living in poverty and employment types of workers in poverty. Considers the opportunities for addressing poverty following Brexit, looking at expectations of low income voters including what central government priorities should be after the UK leaves the EU. Argues that low pay and living standards should be addressed through increasing personal tax allowances and by redesigning welfare benefits to restore work allowances to their original level. Kaufmann, Eric Ref No: B51724
Whiteshift: populism, immigration and the future of white majorities Allen Lane
Examines the evidence to explore ethnic change in Western Europe and North America. Explains that as Western societies are becoming increasingly mixed, this demographic change is having a significant impact on our politics. Outlines the four main white responses to ethnic change: fight, repress, flee, and join. Suggests that some white majorities are responding to ethnic change in quieter ways, such as withdrawing into white residential areas or social networks. Discusses the various ways ‘unmixed’ whiteness will persist, such as in religious groups, who, although not racially motivated, seldom marry outside their own religious group. Notes, for instance, large sections of Brooklyn are becoming whiter because of a growing ultra-Orthodox Jewish community. Argues that there is a need for a new centre, which finds a balance between liberal and minority preferences for more immigration with the restrictionism of ethnic-majority conservatives. Vine, Jim Ref No: B51714
Standardising standards: the case for shared standards in the evidence sector Alliance for Useful Evidence
(Report available on the internet at: http://ow.ly/unAr30mqpxH)
2018 Pages: 13 Publisher’s price: na
Explores the arguments for developing standards for producing and reviewing evidence used to inform policy and practice. Describes the use of internal and external standards and the benefits of standardisation including providing consistency, supporting common expectations and optimising processes. Considers what aspects should be standardised in relation to producing and reviewing evidence. Explores ways in which to standardise and the key requirements in developing a
standards framework. Considers priorities for standardisation, highlighting the importance of consensus-building approaches in identifying and addressing key questions. Presents conclusions and suggests an initial programme of activity for developing shared voluntary standards in producing and reviewing evidence. Anon. Ref No: A62681
The end of austerity? Britain's feel-good budget is a little too good to be true, IN Economist, Vol 429 No 9116 3-9 Nov 2018, p17 Journal article.
(Article available on the internet at: http://ow.ly/uHxG30muXt9)
2018 Pages: 1
Discusses the recent UK budget (October 2018) and Chancellor Phillip Hammond’s promise of an end to austerity. Explains that the Office for Budget Responsibility found an extra £20bn a year for the budget from estimated increased tax revenues. Outlines areas of budget spending such as the NHS, universal credit and highway maintenance and notes the new tax breaks for individuals and businesses. Claims that the two messages of the budget were: that the Tories would end austerity without raising taxes (unlike Labour) and that as the budget giveaway is predicated on a Brexit deal the Tory MPs need to vote to support the deal. Notes that there has only been a rise in spending on health and that other government departments will have flat or falling budgets. Suggests that the economy shows little signs of improvement and that Britain’s long-term fiscal position is unsustainable with demographic changes meaning that the costs of medical treatments for older people are set to rise. Considers that there is likely to be more austerity in the future. Howes, Sally; Kidney Bishop, Tess Ref No: B51715
The hidden obstacles to government digital transformation Institute for Government
(Report available on the internet at: http://ow.ly/CMfe30mnXg2)
2018 Pages: 16 Publisher’s price: na
Examines the planning and implementation of central government digital transformation programmes in the UK, drawing on analysis of business cases prepared for major digital projects. Outlines the context for the study and the recent history of digital transformation in government. Identifies the key problems with business cases for digital transformation programmes and projects, and considers the causes of problems including siloed approaches and misuse of business cases. Presents recommendations in two key areas to improve the effectiveness of digital transformation approval processes: adopting the new strategic approach to digital transformation more widely; and improving business case guidance and applying it better.
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Equalities and diversity
Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) Ref No: B51688
Is Britain fairer? The state of equality and human rights 2018 Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC)
(Report available on the internet at: http://ow.ly/3Vsp30mn3Ky)
2018 Pages: 280 Publisher’s price: na
Examines the UK's performance on equality and human rights looking across key areas of life. Explains that the Equality Act 2006 introduced a statutory duty for the Equality and Human Rights Commission to report regularly to the UK Parliament on the extent to which equality and human rights are improving across the UK, and outlines the way in which evidence was reviewed. Considers key policy and legal developments and progress in the following areas: education; work, including employment and earnings; living standards, including housing, poverty and social care; health; criminal and civil justice and personal security; and participation, including political/civic engagement and access to services. Provides conclusions, indicating that there have been steps in the right direction but that socio-economic disadvantage has worsened, with some groups are falling behind, and makes recommendations for action covering each of the areas addressed.
Focus: diversity (In local government management), IN MJ, 25 Oct 2018, pp16-17 Journal article.
2018 Pages: 2
Reports on the lack of diversity in local government. Discusses a report on the subject by recruitment consultant Green Park. Considers that there has been little progress recently in increasing the number of women and ethnic minorities in senior management positions. Reports that only 39% of senior positions across all English councils are held by women. Notes that only two of London’s 32 boroughs have BAME CEOs, despite London having a population that is 40% non-white. Considers that local authorities should reflect the communities they serve, but that this is not the case above mid-management level. Makes recommendations for councils including setting diversity targets and having balanced recruitment panels. Reports on a recent workshop on championing women’s rights in local government and supporting women managers’ career progression. Suggests that there are systemic institutional barriers which need to be addressed rather than just focusing on the supply side and, for example, leadership development programmes. Discusses how the problem can be addressed by initiatives such as encouraging flexible working and rethinking recruitment practices. Outlines initiatives to help with training and development of staff to recognise their biases and prejudices.
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Business and economy
Keep, Matthew et al Ref No: B51685
Autumn Budget 2018 (Briefing paper no 8422) House of Commons Library
(Report available on the internet at: http://ow.ly/SHsw30mlTsH)
2018 Pages: 55 Publisher’s price: na
Provides background on the economic situation and public finances ahead of the Autumn Budget 2018 Statement. Looks at the performance of the economy including growth, trade, investment, inflation, employment and productivity. Considers the outlook for public finances including borrowing, budgeting and public sector debt. Looks at public spending from 2020 including the spending outlook and the potential end of austerity. Outlines key developments since the Spring Statement 2018 including extra NHS funding, allowing councils to borrow more to build homes, and the freezing of fuel duty. Describes other key issues including Universal Credit, income tax thresholds, and planning reports. Outlines next steps following the Autumn Budget Statement. Child, James Ref No: A62674
Amazon: delivering a force for good (the impact of Amazon on the retail sector), IN EG, No 1843 27 Oct 2018, p36 Journal article.
2018 Pages: 1
Discusses the impact of Amazon on the retail sector. Notes concerns over the disadvantages felt by traditional retailers paying business rates, in comparison to online retailers like Amazon. Suggests that Amazon has had positive impacts in terms of reducing delivery times, and saving time and effort. Identifies potential pitfalls for the company: high operational costs, increased scrutiny, tax transparency, working conditions, and competition from new entrants. Considers the risks of the company’s move into physical space such as in high street stores and more distribution centres. Argues that an online sales tax is not the solution to the problems of the high street nor is targeting regions or towns, rather reducing business rates would help. Concludes that the internet offers opportunities for physical retailers, while the high street needs fewer and more productive stores.
Younger workers’ attitudes and perceptions towards older colleagues, Working with Older People, Vol 22 No 3 2018, pp129-138 Journal article.
2018 Pages: 10
Investigates younger workers’ perceptions of older colleagues, including whether there is evidence of ageism. Reports that convenience sampling was used to recruit ten individuals who were both below the age of 35 and employees at a multigenerational workplace in England, and semi-structured interviews that were audio-recorded, transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis. Finds that whilst some younger employees valued working with older colleagues as they believed that their differing characteristics were complementary, others felt that it lead to intergenerational conflict due to contrasting approaches towards work. Explains that positive perceptions of older workers included their increased knowledge and experience, reliability and better social skills; establishes, however, that ageism was also prevalent, such as the perception of older workers as resistant to change, slower at using technology and lacking the drive to progress. Argues that the study also provided evidence for the socioemotional selectivity and social identity theories. Concludes that, in order to create working environments that are conducive to the well-being of employees of all ages, organisations should place an emphasis on reducing intergenerational tension; this could be achieved by team building sessions that provide an opportunity for individuals to understand generational differences.
(Report available on the internet at: http://ow.ly/sjoX30mmRIS)
2018 Pages: 42 Publisher’s price: na
Explores ways to improve the teaching of foreign languages in schools in Scotland. Outlines the context for the report, including the benefits of learning second languages for individuals and the wider community. Presents background statistics including educational examination entries, the use of non-English languages at home and extent of plurilingualism. Considers the Scottish Government's approach to encouraging children to learn two additional languages ("1+2 policy") and the practical difficulties in achieving this. Looks at approaches to teaching foreign languages across Europe, comparing with practice and trends in Scotland. Provides policy recommendations aimed at improving the teaching of foreign languages in schools, including ending the distinction between community and modern languages and piloting new approaches. Anon. Ref No: A62652
The OECD report on equity in education, IN 14-19 Learning and Skills Bulletin, No 276 24 Oct 2018, pp18-21 Journal article.
2018 Pages: 4
Discusses the results of an OECD study – Equity in Education: Breaking down barriers to social mobility. Looks at how access to tertiary education varies between those from different socio-economic backgrounds. Finds that disparities in educational attainment has persisted between adults from different countries and socio-economic backgrounds. Reports that in Singapore equity has improved markedly over time, but that in countries such as Chile and the Czech Republic equity had declined. Considers that expansion in tertiary education cannot be relied on to increase educational mobility. Looks at how well students’ performance could be predicted based on their socio-economic status, gender and immigrant background. Suggests that schools, teachers and educational policies play a crucial role in equalising opportunities for
students. Reports that performance at age 15 was a strong predictor of higher education and early career outcomes. Looks at the importance of resilience amongst disadvantaged students and considers the importance of whether students attended advantaged or disadvantaged schools. Huxley, Clare et al Ref No: B51706
Evaluation of Mind's mental health and resilience training for new recruits to the Blue Light sector Institute for Employment Studies (IES)
(Report available on the internet at: http://ow.ly/zRtZ30msifs)
2018 Pages: 79 Publisher’s price: na
Provides the findings of an independent evaluation of a mental health and resilience training programme for new recruits to emergency services. Outlines the context for the evaluation, an overview of the two-part training programme and the methodology used. Describes training attendees, changes in attendance between the two parts of the programme and the motivations for and barriers to attending the training. Looks at how the face-to-face training was received, and views on its content and format. Considers the outcomes of the training for new recruits in relation to knowledge and beliefs about mental health and coping strategies. Explores behavioural changes occurring after the training and the application of new skills and knowledge. Presents key conclusions and suggests learning points and recommendations in relation to future training.
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Housing
Blood, Imogen et al Ref No: B51683
Implementing Housing First across England, Scotland and Wales Crisis
(Report available on the internet at: http://ow.ly/pG9v30ml360)
2018 Pages: 60 Publisher’s price: na
Explores ways to implement a new model to address homelessness across Great Britain. Explains that the Housing First approach prioritises getting homeless people into stable homes as the first step towards addressing other issues and support needs, and outlines the evidence base used in developing the report. Outlines the current landscape for implementing Housing First in England, Scotland and Wales. Considers the target cohort for the Housing First model and the ways in which it might be defined, estimated and identified. Explores the implications of Housing First for housing supply, drawing on the learning from existing small-scale Housing First projects. Looks at the support needed to put the Housing First approach into practice, and considers the implications of scaling up the approach across GB. Hammond, Dr Mark; White, Professor Stefan; Walsh, Dr Steven Ref No: B51684
Rightsizing: reframing the housing offer for older people Manchester Metropolitan University
(Report available on the internet at: http://ow.ly/vG9y30ml2NO)
2018 Pages: 32 Publisher’s price: na
Explores ways of developing new housing options to improve older people's quality of life. Explains that there is a need to move beyond limited discussions about 'downsizing' towards a model of 'rightsizing' in which improving older people's quality of life is the critical focus. Presents the key features of a coordinated policy response to enable rightsizing approaches. Outlines the findings of a review of academic literature to establish which older people move home, why they do so and how rightsizing can be used to understand the process. Indicates that accessibility and availability are the key drivers for older people moving home. Suggests that rightsizing should be defined as an older person's active choice to move home as a means of improving their quality of life. Presents case studies outlining methods for assessing availability and accessibility and for developing rightsizing options.
Flexible Right to Buy (Briefing paper) Adam Smith Institute
(Report available on the internet at: http://ow.ly/MJbt30mkdwx)
2018 Pages: 14 Publisher’s price: na
Considers the case for introducing a more flexible Right to Buy scheme for social housing tenants. Suggests that too few people own their own homes, too many people are trapped in council housing and that in many areas house prices are too expensive to allow social tenants to buy their homes. Argues that a more flexible Right to Buy policy should be introduced, entitling social tenants to buy a new home using the value of their right to buy discount, and presents two case studies illustrating the way in which the revised scheme would work. Discusses the financial implications for local authorities and tenants, and the wider economic implications including housing and labour markets. Concludes that the revised scheme would offer significant benefits to social tenants, public finances, and the economy. Sanders, Ben; Reid, Beth Ref No: B51682
'I won't last long in here': experiences of unsuitable temporary accommodation in Scotland Crisis
(Report available on the internet at: http://ow.ly/rD3530ml31Q)
2018 Pages: 23 Publisher’s price: na
Explores the experiences of homeless people living in unsuitable temporary accommodation in Scotland, drawing on the results of a survey of homelessness service users. Outlines the use of temporary accommodation in Scotland, the political context and research aims and methodology. Explores levels of unsuitable temporary accommodation experienced by service users, the length of time spent there, and reasons for leaving. Looks at the experience of service users living in unsuitable temporary accommodation including access to facilities, standards of living, and security/wellbeing. Considers the consequences of living in unsuitable temporary accommodation in relation to employment, relationships, and addictions. Concludes that urgent legislative change is needed to end the use of unsuitable temporary accommodation and makes recommendations to the Scottish government and local authorities. Glasgow and West of Scotland Forum of Housing Associations Ref No: B51681
Pressure on rents: the challenges facing community based housing associations Glasgow and West of Scotland Forum of Housing Associations
(Report available on the internet at: http://ow.ly/1It230mviEs)
2018 Pages: 5 Publisher’s price: na
Looks at key issues and pressures facing Scottish community-based housing associations associated with rent levels. Indicates that there are no legal or policy requirements on housing associations concerning rent levels but that housing associations have long been committed to ensuring that their rents are affordable for people in low paid work. Describes pressures arising from external scrutiny by the housing regulator and by tenants and campaign groups. Discusses the difficulty in defining what is an 'affordable rent', and the increasing pressures on rental income from rising arrears, need for investment, and other issues. Considers process issues around housing association rents and ways of communicating rent challenges to tenants. Hilditch, Martin Ref No: A62654
‘I don’t want to give the impression that I want to bash housing associations” (future of housing in Kensington and Chealsea), IN Inside Housing, Vol 35 No 41 26 Oct 2018, pp22-25 Journal article.
2018 Pages: 4
Presents an interview with the deputy leader of Kensington and Chelsea London Borough Council, Kim Taylor-Smith, about the council’s discussion paper on the future of housing in the borough. Sets out plans to build 300 new homes on council land by 2022 and create a residents’ charter. Explains that the council has taken back management of its stock
from the Kensington and Chelsea Tenant Management Organisation (KCTMO) which managed it at the time of the Grenfell fire. Considers that KCTMO did not manage its stock well with a backlog of 5,000 repairs when the council took back control. Outlines Taylor-Smith’s concerns about housing associations, such as Clarion, which focus on profits rather than providing social benefits. Highlights the loss of social housing in the borough and discusses ways that this might be mitigated. Describes ideas proposed in the discussion paper including: a two-way residents’ charter; annual tenant visits focused on health and well-being; and making 35% of new housing affordable. Letwin, Sir Oliver Ref No: B51708
Independent review of build out: final report (CM 9720) HM Government
(Report available on the internet at: http://ow.ly/m3LN30mqnHa)
2018 Pages: 32 Publisher’s price: na
Considers ways to improve the build out rates for housing with full planning permission in areas of high housing demand, drawing on the findings of an independent review. Summarises the key points from the draft analysis published in June 2018, including the aims of the review, the focus on build out rates on large sites and initial explanations and conclusions. Outlines the intention of the second phase of the study, to identify policy options for improving build out rates. Presents proposals for a new planning framework for large housing sites to increase the diversity of offering in areas of high housing demand from 2021 onwards. Outlines proposals for new development structures for local authorities to use in relation to large housing sites in the future. Anon. Ref No: A62716
Building blocs (social housing in Northern Ireland), IN Economist, Vol 429 No 9116 3-9 Nov 2018, p30 Journal article.
(Article available on the internet at: http://ow.ly/z1ut30muXAu)
2018 Pages: 1
Looks at the social housing shortage in Belfast focusing on why it affects Catholics more than Protestants. Outlines the background to the segregated nature of social housing in the city explaining that, although middle class areas have become more integrated since the ceasefire, social housing remains largely divided. Highlights that Catholics are now in the majority in Belfast, but that there is a limited supply of social housing for them with an average wait of 28 months for a house in Catholic West Belfast compared to a one year wait for Protestants in the east of the city. Explains that there is little land left to build on in the Catholic areas and that despite ten new integrated estates being built many people prefer to live within their own communities. Describes how the points allocation system, which determines housing priority, can be gamed. Suggests that it is in politicians’ interests to maintain segregated housing and, since the suspension of the Northern Ireland Assembly in January 2017, there has been little progress in pursuing the housing shortage issue. Howarth, Paul; Charlesworth, Zoe; Ghelani, Deven Ref No: B51719
Universal Credit: making it work for supported housing residents Policy in Practice
(Report available on the internet at: http://ow.ly/qUU730mn4OZ)
2018 Pages: 39 Publisher’s price: na
Examines the Universal Credit claim process for residents living in supported housing, and considers ways to address the barriers identified. Outlines the national policy context for supported housing and the way in which Universal Credit will impact on supported housing residents. Considers the barriers to Universal Credit claims and claims management including the complexity of the system, interaction with Jobcentre Plus, digital claim management and payment and budgeting. Identifies ways to address the barriers faced by supported housing residents in claiming Universal Credit including the role of support workers, communications, training and guidance, claim management and payment and budgeting. Provides conclusions and a summary of recommendations.
Youth homelessness and care leavers: mapping interventions in Wales Wales Centre for Public Policy
(Report available on the internet at: http://ow.ly/6JNu30mplMu)
2018 Pages: 47 Publisher’s price: na
Examines the range of interventions to support young people facing homelessness in Wales, focusing on care leavers as a specific group. Outlines the policy context for the study, and recent legal, policy and funding changes impacting on homelessness services provided by local authorities. Presents profiles of youth homelessness and care leavers, indicating numbers and types affected, and looks at the links between homelessness and leaving care. Provides the results of the mapping exercise, identifying five types of intervention: structural prevention; systems prevention; early intervention; eviction prevention; and housing stability. Presents a range of suggested actions for local authorities and the Welsh Government in the short, medium and longer term.
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Planning, development and property
Marrs, Colin Ref No: A62667
Design standards (implications of the revised National Policy Planning Framework), IN Planning, No 2081 26 Oct 2018, pp18-19 Journal article.
2018 Pages: 2
Looks at the implications of the revised National Policy Planning Framework which has introduced a heightened emphasis on design standards in new developments. Describes six developments which have been rejected recently by local authorities citing the new NPPF policies. Includes a scheme to build 72 homes in Fareham which was not felt to represent high-quality design. Considers the effects of the new policy on developers who may now face higher design costs. Suggests that economic factors, resources and the new housing delivery test (whereby the number of housing completions must meet certain thresholds) will affect whether councils can enforce the new design standards. Considers that councils in deprived areas may be unwilling to say a design is not good enough if they are desperate to attract development. Sets out five steps councils can take to boost the quality of design: enabling effective pre-application discussions; making use of design reviews; increasing local authority design expertise; giving councillors design training; and updating local plans. Whelan, Dominic Ref No: A62675
Development horror stories (issues that could cause problems for developers), IN EG, No 1843 27 Oct 2018, pp53-54 Journal article.
2018 Pages: 2
Considers some of the development issues that could cause problems for developers if missed. Discusses the disruption caused by bats, given their protected status, and how developers should address this. Looks at the issue of great crested newts which are also protected as an endangered species; reflects on how developers should act if these newts are present on a site. Outlines the laws regarding historic monuments, and what the presence of such a structure means for a development. Explains what can be done to mitigate against the discovery of restrictive covenants relating to a site. Stresses the need for the solicitor acting for the developer to pick up on any express easements that affect the project. Concludes by examining the issue of town and village greens which can be registered, providing protection against development.
Andrews Tipper, William; Shields, Stephanie; Elliott, James Ref No: B51675
From blue to green: how to get the best for the environment from spending on water Green Alliance
(Report available on the internet at: http://ow.ly/VIPs30miGKW)
2018 Pages: 34 Publisher’s price: na
Explores ways to maximise the positive environmental impact of investment by water companies in improving water quality. Considers the water industry's track record in improving the environment, including key drivers and investment. Looks at the role of the UK government's 25-year environment plan in providing a policy framework for improving environmental outcomes, suggesting three key ways of improving outcomes for water. Considers ways of maximising environmental returns from water company investment, focusing on extending catchment management approaches at larger scale. Provides conclusions and recommendations aimed at central government and water companies, including the need to maintain existing EU legal commitments via the new Environment Bill and accelerate the adoption of catchment management. Kaza, Silpa et al Ref No: B51679
What a waste 2.0: a global snapshot of solid waste management to 2050 World Bank
(Report available on the internet at: http://ow.ly/j1IJ30miET6)
2018 Pages: 296 Publisher’s price: na
Examines trends, issues, and practices relating to the management of solid waste across the world. Provides an overview of solid waste management across the globe including waste generation, composition, collection and disposal. Presents regional snapshots covering seven regional groupings including Europe and Central Asia. Looks at waste administration and operations including regulation, planning, institutions and coordination. Considers financing and cost recovery for waste management systems including budgets, costs and financing mechanisms. Looks at the implications of waste management for wider society including environment, technology, and social impacts. Presents 17 case studies highlighting good practice examples of various aspects of solid waste management in countries around the world. Anon. Ref No: B51704
Towards a climate ready Clyde: climate risks and opportunities for Glasgow City Region Climate Ready Clyde
(Report available on the internet at: http://ow.ly/1pLe30mrKwX)
2018 Pages: 16 Publisher’s price: na
Explores the challenges and opportunities for Glasgow City Region arising from climate change. Explains that climate change is already happening and its impacts are being felt within Glasgow City Region. Identifies four types of action needed to be taken to 2025 to manage the long-term impacts of climate change: more and stronger implementation activities; building understanding and capacity; sustaining current actions; and maintaining a watching brief. Provides case studies highlighting collaboration within Glasgow City Region taking action to address climate change, and local area initiatives in the USA and Denmark. Indicates that a Glasgow City Region Adaptation Strategy and Action Plan will be developed by 2020. Anon. Ref No: B51718
Toxic air at the door of the NHS The British Lung Foundation
(Report available on the internet at: http://ow.ly/Kanr30mrr1f)
2018 Pages: 16 Publisher’s price: na
Looks at safe air pollution limits being exceeded at hospitals and GP practices across Great Britain, drawing on the results of analysis of air pollution levels in surrounding areas. Outlines the implications of the study and makes recommendations
for action including establishing a network of charging clean air zones in cities and towns with the highest levels of air pollution. Explains fine particulate matter, its health effects and the current legal position in meeting statutory limits. Outlines the scope of the study and methodology used, including six case studies of cities and towns from across the UK. Presents findings by area: England as a whole plus Birmingham, London, Nottingham and Worthing; Scotland as a whole plus Aberdeen; and Wales as a whole plus Cardiff.
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Transport, infrastructure and communications
Anon. Ref No: B51705
Car travel econometrics Department for Transport (DfT)
(Report available on the internet at: http://ow.ly/8oUt30mnLtQ)
2018 Pages: 66 Publisher’s price: na
Examines the impact of various socio-economic and demographic factors on the demand for car travel, drawing on the results of econometric analysis. Outlines the policy context for the study, the aims and objectives and the methodology used. Presents findings on key factors affecting car travel demand, including location, age, income, employment and household composition, and provides regional and age breakdowns of key results. Explores whether there have been changes in the estimated impacts over time and considers whether the impact of age varies across regions. Presents conclusions highlighting the key factors influencing car travel decisions as employment type, household composition, location and age, and makes recommendations relating to policy, transport modelling and further research.
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Regeneration and community development
Property Week Ref No: A62669
The rebirth of Manchester, IN Property Week, Vol 85 No 42 26 Oct 2018, pp36-39 Journal article.
2018 Pages: 4
Reports on the deliberations of a panel of experts brought together to discuss the factors behind Manchester’s success, what other cities can learn from it, how to secure the continued success and growth of Manchester, and the key challenges that city and town centres face today. Considers what the key factors behind Manchester’s regeneration are. Suggests that the city’s development over the past 30 years is more the result of the work of individuals in terms of leadership, innovation, culture and a long-term approach, rather than being a product of economic forces. Establishes that while there is no blueprint that other towns and cities can employ, there are some elements that other places can learn from, such as having a long-term plan and understanding the commercial world. Explores how regeneration can be spread from the city centre to the suburbs and the surrounding towns. Assesses how to tackle the oversupply of retail in many city and town centres. Reflects, in conclusion, on the key challenges for Manchester, and how the city can ensure it remains successful.
(Report available on the internet at: http://ow.ly/YucS30mmSpK)
2018 Pages: 40 Publisher’s price: na
Examines the financial and performance position of the National Health Service (NHS) in Scotland, and considers what action is needed to ensure that it meets the needs of Scottish people. Provides key facts about the NHS in Scotland and summarises key messages and recommendations to the Scottish Government. Identifies why immediate action is needed, focusing on 2017/18 performance and highlighting financial pressures, declining performance against targets and workforce challenges. Considers what changes are needed, including clarity about the scale of the challenge, effective leadership, enabling a more open healthcare system, and providing clear governance arrangements. McCabe, Jess Ref No: A62653
Domestic abuse: not just a tenant issue, IN Inside Housing, Vol 35 No 41 26 Oct 2018, pp18-20 Journal article.
2018 Pages: 3
Discusses the issue of domestic abuse encountered by employees in the housing sector in light of the Chartered Institute of Housing’s ‘Make a Stand’ campaign. Presents interviews with three people who have been victims of such abuse: a housing association manager who was emotionally and physically abused by his wife; a housing association chief executive who suffered domestic abuse as a child; and an employee whose father beat her mother and older brother. Discusses how the victims were affected by the abuse and how it shaped their lives. Outlines how social landlords can support staff who have suffered domestic abuse. Considers that staff should be: allowed paid leave to deal with the abuse; be able to access support; and be allowed to work flexibly or from a different location. Looks at how perpetrators of abuse in the workplace can be helped. Youde, Kate Ref No: A62661
Inside the only refuge specifically for women with learning disabilities, IN Inside Housing, Vol 35 No 40 19 Oct 2018, pp26-28 Journal article.
2018 Pages: 3
Reports on Beverly Lewis House, a refuge specifically for women with learning difficulties or autism who have suffered domestic abuse. Highlights that this service, which is run by the care and support subsidiary of housing provider L&Q, is the only one of its kind in the country. Notes that in 2014 over 15% of women with disabilities had suffered domestic abuse, often by their carers, compared with 7.1% of non-disabled women. Describes the facilities available and how residents are supported to get their lives back on track. Explains that a local authority funds the 24-hour specialist support for a resident’s placement from its adult social care budget with housing benefit covering the rent. Discusses how local authority funding cuts have affected refuge services in general and considers that the forthcoming Domestic Abuse Bill is likely to drive up demand further. Reports on plans for a conference to raise awareness amongst housing associations of the problems facing women with learning disabilities.
Having a voice: a collaborative research project exploring the challenges and assets of people experiencing homelessness, IN Journal of Integrated Care, Vol 26 No 4 2018, pp342-352 Journal article.
2018 Pages: 11
Presents the results of research into the lived experiences of people who have experienced homelessness and professional stakeholders’ views about the challenges faced by this client group. Reports that there has been a 169% increase in rough sleepers in England since 2010 with homeless people having many and complex needs. Explains that the study involved semi-structured interviews/surveys with eight individuals experiencing homelessness and 10 professionals in an area of high deprivation in the West Midlands. Finds that there is a need for a co-ordinated partnership approach to address pathways to support with a requirement to be flexible and responsive to individual needs. Considers that opportunities for the homeless to have somewhere to go and something meaningful to do must be developed and that service users must be given a voice to improve their own situation. Anon. Ref No: B51716
The state of health care and adult social care in England 2017/18 Care Quality Commission (CQC)
(Report available on the internet at: http://ow.ly/4vY530mnKYN)
2018 Pages: 132 Publisher’s price: na
Examines the operation of the health and social care system in England in 2017/18, focusing on people's experience of accessing health and care services. Outlines the data used in the report including Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspection and ratings data. Looks at the state of health and social care, including the ways in which people experience care, the challenges for local areas in ensuring high quality care and the need for joined up delivery of health and social care services. Presents information on the specific sectors regulated by the CQC: adult social care; hospitals, community health services and ambulance services; mental health care; primary medical services; equality in health and social care; and the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards.
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Crime, justice and rights
Anon. Ref No: B51709
Is Scotland fairer? The state of equality and human rights 2018 Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC)
(Report available on the internet at: http://ow.ly/QFmp30mnGKR)
2018 Pages: 146 Publisher’s price: na
Examines progress on equality and human rights issues in Scotland since 2015. Explains that this report is a standalone supplement to the Equality and Human Rights Commission's statutory report covering England, Scotland and Wales (see Ref: B51688). Outlines the way in which evidence was reviewed and the economic and social context. Provides findings and conclusions in relation to the following areas: education; work, including employment and earnings; living standards, including housing, poverty and social care; health; justice and personal security; and participation, including political/civic life, access to services and community cohesion. Presents conclusions and recommendations for action addressing the issues identified in the report.
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