Over the past week I’ve spent a significant amount of time engaging with partners across the system – including colleagues in other local authorities, Police Scotland, NHS Highland, Scottish Government and our Community Justice Partnership.
What has been clear in all of those conversations is that strong partnerships and relationships are not optional – they are essential. The challenges we face do not sit neatly within organisational boundaries, and the outcomes we want for our communities depend on how well we work together.
This feels particularly important as we move into the post-election period and begin to navigate the emerging priorities of the new Government. It is likely that public sector reform will feature prominently in the months ahead, and the local government family across Scotland is already working hard to develop proposals that can genuinely improve outcomes for our communities. There is a real opportunity here to shape that agenda through practical, place-based experience rather than abstract policy.
Sometimes, coverage of councils can feel critical, but we should continue to be proud, rather than defensive of our work, and the difference we make every day to individuals and communities across Argyll and Bute. That pride matters.
But alongside that, we also need to remain open – open to challenge, open to doing things differently, and consistently focused on improving outcomes rather than simply protecting what already exists.
Strong relationships, a willingness to work across boundaries, and a shared focus on the bigger picture will be critical for all of us as we move forward. So, pause to recognise the great contribution you’ve made this week before finishing up for, a hopefully sunny, weekend.
Pippa
Pippa Milne
Chief Executive
