The post‐1990 health reforms in health and social care have resulted in quasi‐markets, centralized funding and an acceptance of top‐down managerialism.The analysis of contracting within the public sector has focused on the extent to which the market has affected equity, access and choice...

The UK National Health Service is undergoing a radical period of change. The changes represent a massive challenge and opportunity for those who manage healthcare in the UK. South East Thames Regional Health Authority′s programme for developing their top managers for future roles in the...

Purpose – The aim of this paper is to examine the introduction of innovation as part of a management development programme at a primary care organisation, a legal form known as a Primary Care Trust (PCT), in the UK. Design/methodology/approach – The paper draws on experience of managing a...

Describes how the National Health Service management has responded to pressure for change as a “critical case site” for investigation of the importance of innovativeness. What factors help or hinder innovation? What distinguishes highly innovative teams? How does the process of innovation...

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine the motivations behind public sector spin outs, focusing on the Right to Request policy, which enabled NHS staff to set up their own social enterprises to deliver healthcare services. Design/methodology/approach – The paper draws on empirical...

The introduction of quality in the public sector has received scant attention, particularly in the area of local authority social services departments. Examines the state of quality progress in social services departments throughout the UK. Findings are reported which suggest that several social...

Drawing on Price Waterhouse Cranfield survey data, examines whether the common challenges to local authorities in Europe have resulted in similar national trends in human resource management. Compares public and private sector developments in line management responsibility, remuneration,...