78 SNA helps LSPs to understand and strengthen the links between partners. It provides partners with a map that can help them identify weak links, support key gatekeepers, and identify gaps. SNA enables partners to see how well their organisations work with one another at different levels and across different themes.
79 Two case study LSPs ran SNA exercises in 2008:
• a newly developed health and well-being partnership in Derbyshire (Case study 7), and
• a more mature community safety partnership in Bolton (Case study 8).
Case study 7 Derbyshire health and well-being partnership The Derbyshire SNA focused on an operational partnership to help people with disabilities get employment. Across the county (and the unitary Derby City Council) there are 111 potential partners. The analysis revealed weaknesses in the connections between Jobcentre Plus and the city PCT, and between the county council and the county PCT. SNA also identified the potential isolation from decision-making mechanisms of the Learning and Skills Council, and local further and higher education institutions. The LSP used the analysis to strengthen the partnership and improve services across the county. It now uses SNA to test partnership working arrangements at all levels. Source: Audit Commission, 2008 |
Case study 8 Bolton community safety partnership The Bolton SNA focused on links between the community safety partnership and the anti-social behaviour network. The SNA identified 210 people involved in a mature, well-led partnership. There was significant networking between the partners. However, there were some key gatekeepers who controlled access to member organisations and who kept the partnership relevant and responsive to local needs. If they were to leave there would be real damage to the partnership. The network used the analysis to develop support for these gatekeepers and future-proof itself against changes. Source: Audit Commission, 2008 |