Enhancing local communities through efficient, collaborative public services A partnership approach to better public service delivery West Suffolk Shared Services represents a strategic partnership between Forest Heath District Council and St Edmundsbury Borough Council, now united as West Suffolk Council. Established in 2010, this collaboration was designed to enhance service delivery, improve efficiency, and provide better value for taxpayers while maintaining the unique needs of local communities. By sharing resources, expertise, and functions, the councils have created a more responsive and cost-effective public service model. This innovative approach has become a benchmark for local government collaboration across England, demonstrating how neighboring authorities can work together while preserving their local identities and priorities. The shared services model focuses on corporate functions including finance, human resources, ICT, and customer services, allowing both councils to redirect savings toward frontline services that directly benefit residents and businesses in the West Suffolk region. Comprehensive services delivered efficiently and effectively Our experienced finance team provides professional accounting, budgeting and financial reporting services. We ensure transparency in public spending while maintaining financial stability for both councils, enabling better planning and resource allocation. Our HR specialists support over 1,300 employees across various council functions. From recruitment and training to employee relations and wellbeing initiatives, we help build a skilled workforce dedicated to serving local communities. We maintain modern IT infrastructure and develop digital solutions that improve service delivery and accessibility. Our team ensures data security while implementing innovative technologies that make council services more convenient for residents. Our customer service team responds to over 250,000 contacts annually through various channels including telephone, email, and in-person visits. We're committed to providing helpful, timely responses to all resident inquiries. We ensure both councils operate within legal frameworks and best practices. Our governance team provides support for democratic processes, decision-making, and compliance while maintaining the highest standards of public service. We manage council properties and facilities efficiently, ensuring public spaces and buildings are well-maintained and accessible. This includes community centers, parks, recreational areas, and administrative buildings. How shared services deliver real value to West Suffolk Our collaboration has saved taxpayers over 10 million since 2010, allowing councils to maintain frontline services despite national funding constraints. Shared expertise and resources have improved service standards across both councils, with higher satisfaction ratings in key service areas. Our partnership ensures business continuity during challenges, with shared resources providing backup support for critical functions. Our collaborative environment fosters innovation, allowing us to implement new technologies and approaches that benefit both councils' operations. United as West Suffolk, we have greater influence at regional and national levels, better advocating for our communities' needs in wider government discussions. Years of Successful Collaboration In Savings to Taxpayers Employees Supported Annual Customer Contacts Handled We're here to help with your inquiries about our services Western Way Mildenhall Suffolk IP28 7EG Phone: 01284 757077 Email: sharedservices@westsuffolk.gov.uk Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30am - 5:00pmWest Suffolk Shared Services
About West Suffolk Shared Services
Our Services
Financial Services
Human Resources
ICT and Digital Services
Customer Services
Corporate Governance
Property and Facilities
Benefits to Our Communities
Cost Savings
Enhanced Service Quality
Resilience and Continuity
Innovation and Improvement
Stronger Voice Regionally
10+
10M+
1,300+
250K+
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West Suffolk Shared Services
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