Description
Book SynopsisBased on the authors' twenty-five year experience of consultancy in the public services, this book develops an empowering approach to thinking about and doing consultancy with public services. It challenges the traditional view that the consultants are brought in as experts and instead examines ways of using consultancy to empower staff, patients, service users and members of the public, so that they can take part in developing, changing, innovating and ultimately transforming these services. The book includes chapters explaining consultancy, on preparing bids, on negotiations and on the importance of assessment and review which are geared towards the needs of those working in public and third sectors, either as or with consultants. It includes a glossary, abbreviations, helpful contacts and websites which are valuable for quick reference and to aid further understanding.
Trade Review"The broad literature around consultancy has blossomed in recent years, but Robert Adams and Wade Tovey's book positions itself distinctively...[it's] greatest appeal is its stories from the front line." SRA Research Matters Magazine
"This invaluable book genuinely breaks new ground in the use of consultancies, showing you how to work positively with staff to develop creative solutions in order to provide effective services." Brian Littlechild, University of Hertfordshire
Table of ContentsIntroduction; Part One Setting the scene: Introducing consultancy: an empowerment approach; Part Two Doing consultancy: Negotiating; Contracting; Engaging; Empowering; Disengaging; Part Three Reflections: Reflecting on contexts for consultancy; Reflecting on perspectives on consultancy; Doing consultancy and transforming public services.
