Codes of Practice

LEA Responsibilities

• The LEA must ensure that the actions of one service unit (or non delegated service) do not disadvantage other service units or 'distort the market'.

• The LEA must do everything possible to enable service units to maximise their competitive success, for example allowing them to employ temporary supply staff.

• Service Level Agreements (SLA's) between the service units and other departments or sections of the City council must be in place.

• Service units should have the freedom to vire and carry forward balances, at least to an agreed level, at the end of the financial year.

School Responsibilities

• Schools must encompass the additional responsibilities of delegation and ensure that they supply all information required by the LEA, or under the Scheme of Delegation, financial regulations, etc, in full and within agreed timescales.

• Payments for services purchased from the LEA must be made at the times set out in the payment agreement.

• Schools not buying back delegated services are reminded that in every way they must comply with the City Council’s requirements over financial regulations, standing orders, personnel policies and other information and procedural requirements, of which schools may be informed from time to time.

• Schools must continue to comply with all legal requirements including health and safety.

Substantive Ground Rules

• Service units must act in a way that is compatible with their position as part of a statutory body.

• Services shall be offered to customers subject to an agreed specification, which should set out clearly:

• The products or services to be provided across a time specific period and, where appropriate, a period of notice for withdrawal.

• A brief description of the service standards.

• A clear indication of price(s) to be charged, and the manner and frequency of charging.

• A procedure for redress in the event of any dispute.

• Service units are encouraged to promote their services and products to LEA schools and any other bodies to whom the Authority may lawfully provide such services.