Contracting for Change Contracts in Health, Social Care, and Other Local Government Services

What are the implications of the contract culture and its introduction into Britain's public services, for both the providers and users of services? The authors compare and contrast local government, health, and social care services, arguing that these changes involve a fundamental break with past understandings of public services management. This new study, based on original research in the field, examines the situation on the ground and identifies the prospects for future action.

Nicholas Deakin is Professor of Social Policy and Administration, University of Birmingham. He has been Private Secretary to Minister of State 1962-3; Head of Central Policy Unit, GLC, 1972-80; Scientific Advisor, Department of Health, 1986-91; Vice-Chairman, Social Affairs Committee, ESRC, 1984-6; Chair, Social Policy Association, 1989-92.