LSPs must bring a complex network of local agencies together to achieve common goals.

•  LSPs are part of a complex local governance network that includes local councils, other statutory agencies (including health, police, fire and rescue), and the private and third sectors. LSPs in many areas bring different agencies together to tackle local problems.

•  LSPs work through three main layers:

•  strategic: oversight, vision, and direction-setting;

•  executive: resource allocation and performance management; and

•  operational: service management and delivery.

•  Local partners, and central government, do not always understand how these layers work.

•  A whole systems approach can help LSPs develop both formal and informal aspects of collaboration.