The deployment of staff to run public services themselves at arm's length from council control has become the latest policy to emerge from the coalition government's big society agenda.
Announced by Cabinet Office minister Francis Maude, the so-called "mutuals" will be tested in 12 pathfinder areas and if successful could become the norm across the public sector.
Each pilot will get access to a mentor who has experience of running mutuals, such as the John Lewis Partnership. Among the pilots are four involving children and young people's services (see below).
Divided opinions
Earlier this year, CYP Now reported that Hammersmith & Fulham and Westminster are looking to merge their children's services departments. As two of the 12 pathfinder areas they have announced that parts of the merged department will be run as staff-led organisations.
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