Social Economy Involvement in Public Service Delivery: Community Engagement and Accountability

Abstract

This paper considers the policy changes that have led to the outsourcing of contracts for the delivery of public services in the UK, with a focus on the role of social economy organisations. Specifically, we critique the arguments in favour of social economy involvement in public service delivery, and suggest that increased reliance on the sector poses particular challenges with respect to community engagement and local accountability. We go on to argue that a relatively new form of community-based organisation - the Development Trust - is potentially well-positioned to address these challenges.