How can we make the case for public services? This has been the overarching theme of the What’s it worth? project running across the Guardian’s Society Professionals networks for the last four weeks. In a climate of austerity, efficiency and pressure, we have looked at how the public and voluntary sector can measure the impact it makes, and asked what the public values about their local services.
Now we’re bringing together experts from across different sectors for an online discussion about how to champion our public services. We will be looking at how the different areas of public services can work together, from the NHS to housing associations. We will ask how the sector can combat its sometimes negative image; whether that’s the poor public perception of social work, or the way that charities have been portrayed in the press over the past few months. And we will be asking for examples of grassroots organisations that are championing their local services, from libraries to buses.
The discussion will take place on Monday 30 November, between 12-2pm, in the comments section below this article. Taking part is easier than ever: you can create a free Guardian account, or log in using your Twitter or Facebook profiles to comment. Alternatively, you can tweet us using the hashtag #whatsitworth or email us to post your questions for you.
Panellists
Barbara Young, former chief executive of Diabetes UK.
John Perry, policy adviser at the Chartered Institute of Housing.
Nushra Mansuri, professional officer at the British Association of Social Workers.
Colin Wiles, independent housing consultant and former housing association chief executive.
Sophie Wilson, researcher at the Institute for Government.
Peter Beresford, professor of social policy at Brunel University and chair of Shaping Our Lives.
Helen McKenna, senior policy adviser at the King’s Fund
