Briefing / Sustainability and transformation partnership governance survey

The HFMA’s STP governance survey was completed during November and December 2017 with the aim to help build a comprehensive picture of developing governance arrangements within STPs. This analysis sets out the key findings from the survey.

There is broad acceptance that the system-based approach of STPs is the right direction of travel to help achieve the delivery of joined up services to the public and improve efficiency. Working on a wider basis than individual organisations is a positive move, although it brings with it some complex governance issues. The survey responses highlight a mixed picture of developing governance arrangements across STPs. For many it remains early days with governance arrangements evolving.

When asked what aspects of STP governance are working well, it is pleasing to note a number of comments reflect greater improvement in collaboration and relationships. Comments highlight the importance of strong collaboration between clinical leaders, finance leaders and general managers. However, concerns remain, particularly over the lack of clarity and transparency of the vision and decision-making, lack of agreed STP wide resources and lack of accountability to and from individual organisations. The survey gives a clear message that there is still much work to be done in developing effective STP governance arrangements.