Wandsworth Council's Change Programme has delivered £1.7 million in net financial benefits, according to a report presented to the Finance Overview and Scrutiny Committee on Thursday 03 July 2025.

The Change Programme, established in 2023, analysed 35 projects to assess benefits for residents, the workforce, and financial sustainability. The programme's objectives include enabling excellent services, attracting and retaining the right workforce, and securing ongoing financial sustainability. The Executive Director of Finance has stated that the ongoing financial sustainability of the Council depends on finding significant opportunities for efficiencies, cost-reduction or increasing income to meet projected funding shortfalls.

Of the £1.7 million in net financial benefits, £0.2 million are productivity gains, £0.6 million are cost avoidance savings, and £0.8 million are ongoing cash savings already incorporated into the Council's Medium Term Financial Strategy (MTFS). Additionally, the programme anticipates £0.5 million in income from an external funding pilot. The report pack states that a further £0.5m of income is anticipated as part of the external funding two-year pilot.

Since the last committee update, an additional £600,000 has been allocated from the Change Programme Delivery Fund to drive change and ensure long-term efficiency. The total fund of £6.3 million is now committed to be spent by 2026/27.

Resident Benefits

The Change Programme has led to several improvements for Wandsworth residents:

  • Smarter Use of Technology: The Digital Blueprint assesses new tools for housing repairs and road defect monitoring, aiming to improve service quality and reduce emissions.
  • Simpler, More Inclusive Access: The Customer Access Strategy sets responsiveness standards across contact channels, with WhatsApp introduced as a new channel.
  • Stronger Communities and Local Partnerships: The Place Directorate delivers joined-up, place-based services, supporting regeneration and community capacity-building.

Workforce Benefits

A group of women participate in a fitness class, possibly related to the council's Access for All Programme.
A group of women participate in a fitness class, possibly related to the council's Access for All Programme.Source: Finance Overview and Scrutiny Committee papers, 3 July 2025

The programme has also focused on improving the council's workforce:

  • Empowering Our People: Faster onboarding, empowered managers, and inclusive tools improve staff productivity and service delivery.
  • A Workforce Aligned with Purpose: New values, identity, and purpose have improved alignment and morale, with staff engagement increasing from 62% in 2022 to 71% in 2024.
  • Leadership That Builds Confidence and Capability: The Leadership Framework equips managers with tools to lead effectively, while the Place Directorate opens new career pathways.
  • Smarter Structures, Simpler Systems: Restructures have delivered £1 million in efficiencies, with £400,000 reinvested.
  • Technology That Works for Everyone: A Copilot Trial showed 86% of staff found the AI tool improved their work, saving an average of four hours per week.
  • Workspaces That Support Wellbeing and Collaboration: Upgraded office environments support collaboration and wellbeing, with investments in health and nutrition.

Additional Information

The Change Programme has highlighted skills gaps in programme management, business case development, and service design. The Leadership Development programme will address these gaps.

To date, £3 million (48%) of the £6.3 million budget has been spent. £2.2 million has funded roles, and £0.8 million has been used for supplies and services.