Over the past few months Adoption-net has featured articles that make reference to the government beacon scheme. Following these articles readers have contacted us asking exactly what the scheme means so I thought it would be useful to explain the benefits.

The beacon council scheme makes a major contribution to the improvement of local government services. The councils who hold beacon status share their learning and experience with others through a series of learning events that take place throughout the year. The award also provides national recognition for front line staff who have delivered high quality public services in their specific theme.

Beacon status is granted to those councils who can demonstrate a clear vision, high satisfaction with services and a willingness to innovate amongst other attributes within a specific theme. However, to obtain beacon status applicants must demonstrate that they have good overall performance, and not just in the service area for which beacon status is awarded.

All councils can apply to become a beacon council, the final decision is made by government ministers based on recommendations made by an independent advisory panel. Councils hold the status for a year; during this period the IDeA works with them to facilitate the sharing of good practice through a series of showcase events, open days and other learning activities.

The government selects themes for the beacon scheme. The themes are chosen because of their importance in the day to day lives of the public and they are key to improving the quality of life in all our communities. This year there are eleven themes and fifty-two awards granted to forty six beacon councils.

(Source: Dept of Health)