Culture and sport services can also make a considerable contribution to tackling social exclusion, encouraging healthier lifestyles and providing opportunities for voluntary and community activity. This theme is relevant to all types of authority. It will also draw attention to the report of Policy Action Team 10 on Arts and Sport. Modern service delivery - good access to council services New standards of service delivery are emerging and developing in the private sector, which in some cases are sharpening the contrast with public sector service provision. The range of services available at a single point of contact has also expanded.
Local authorities provide a wide range of services and information to local communities.
Enabling all groups of people in the community to gain access to all the services they need is a fundamental task for every authority. Specific issues facing councils may range from physical access to buildings, to provision of information in suitable locations and formats and streamlining enquiry systems to minimise the burdens on the public and front line staff. There are some good examples of local authority practice, and running a beacon theme now will allow good opportunities for early learning. There could also be links with best value reviews. Older people - supporting independent living for older people Ensuring that older people have active, independent and secure lives, fulfilling for themselves and for the community, is an essential part of a fair and equitable society.