Reshaping Social Work Authorities in Scotland

This article examines the assumptions and arguments underpinning the case that the Government has made for reorganizing Scottish social work authorities. In particular the argument that the reforms will enhance both efficiency and accountability at no increase in the cost of senive delivery is examined. The neutral cost assumption is questioned with data provided showing that in England and Wales larger social services departments have lower unit costs. Moreover, the need for more joint and contractual arrangements under the new structures, which the government has itself acknowledged, could undermine efficiency as well as blurring accountability. Overall, it is argued that the government's case for change is based on shaky assumptions with little evidence, and the concern must be that the combination of reorganization and spending constraints will lead to reductions in semce provision in the new authorities.