1. The Public Sector’s Role in the Big Society Historical and political context of municipal and rural governance that created a broad civic structure High public office seen as a reward for social philanthropy or industrial / commercial success Public acceptance of the benign role of local government, associated with attractive civic buildings, and positive social spaces. Public subsidy and local tax raising accepted as necessary for social cohesion – support of the vulnerable. ‘Chunky’ infrastructure and delivery tolerated for greater good, and as a trade against high flying careers

2. Gradually the mood music has changed........ Public antagonism towards system failures of public services has grown, as has a hostlity towards high salaries. Assets seen as sold off in a random and non strategic way. Peoples politics have shifted to single issue, and individual networking shows less respect for all corporate institutions. Less people own public spaces, as car usage increases. Celebrity charities, with huge marketing budgets, are damaging ‘street’ level fundraising.

3. What are the unspokens ? Much big society stuff is ‘womens’ work – no blue lights in sight. Governments incapable of awarding contracts to other than large corporates. Politicians have convinced the public that public sector management is a bad thing. Many professionals prefer a weak and needy consumer. Without currency – consumers will not be able to create new demands. Large scale change has catastrophic political consequences.

4. So what does the future look like ? Governments must grow expertise to commission creatively. New civil service required beyond policy and statute skills. Voluntary and philanthropic sectors have flourished in areas where ‘second income’ and self reliance may have substituted for the role of the state. Social business sector has flourished where volume based profit is hard to achieve – driving costs down further is a deal breaker. Ongoing dilemma between local v national, and individual v standardising. Public assets should be transferred into community ownership