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New communications network for government

A new professional network for Civil Service communicators linked to the Professional Skills for Government initiative and the broader aims of the Civil Service reform agenda was outlined today. Speaking at the Centre for Public Policy Seminars, Howell James, Permanent Secretary, Government Communication, set out how the new network of communicators will build the professional skills and expertise of those working in communication roles across government and put the public at the centre of government communication activity.

The Government Communication Network (GCN) will replace the Government Information and Communication Service, maintain and strengthen existing professional standards and, in line with the recommendations of the Phillis Review, apply these standards to all those involved in communication across government.

Howell James also outlined how the new network will serve the public better. He said:

‘I am very clear about the future for government communication it is one driven by the views and needs of the public. I want to build a network of communicators who are equipped with the highest professional standards to take this forward. Support and training mechanisms will provide all government communicators with the confidence and skills to enable them to engage more directly with the public and in turn bring the publics views to the policy table. But if we are broadening the emphasis we do not want to change our heritage or our values, we need to ensure the impartiality and neutrality of the Civil Service continue to underpin all our communication activity.’

Head of the Home Civil Service, Sir Andrew Turnbull said:

‘The way in which government organisations communicate to those who deliver public services, users of public services, and citizens is key to the successful delivery and use of our public services. I am optimistic that the Government Communication Network, equipped with new professional standards and training, can help us achieve a more direct and open dialogue with the public at all stages of legislation and reform. Clear communication and explanation must be at the heart of what we do and I am confident that the GCN can achieve this.’

The new network will be based on these guiding principles for government communication as a professional skill for government:

• openness;
• more direct, unmediated communication to the public;
• genuine engagement with the public;
• positive explanation;
• use of all relevant channels of communication;
• co-ordination across departments; and
• reinforcement of the Civil Services political neutrality.

GCN will support and connect all government communicators, including those working in internal, stakeholder and e-communications as well as marketing specialists and press officers. It will offer personal, practical and professional support to all individuals and include a new programme of continuous professional development.

This development was one of the recommendations of the Phillis Review, published in January 2004. The new Government Communication Network will be led by Howell James, Permanent Secretary Government Communication, who was appointed in July last year.

Notes to editors:

1. The Independent Review of Government Communications, chaired by Bob Phillis, was launched on 11 February 2003 as part of the Governments response to the Public Administration Committees inquiry into media handling at the former Department for Transport, Local Government and the Regions. The Phillis Review published its final report on 19 January 2004. It recommended the appointment of the Permanent Secretary Government Communications to redefine the role of Government Communications and to put in place the framework to deliver an improved service. Further information and the final report can be viewed at: http://www.gcreview.gov.uk/ http://archive.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/gcreview/index.htm [revised 01/03/06]
2. Professional Skills for Government was launched on 18 October 2004. It is a new programme to develop and improve skills in the Civil Service and to ensure that those with the potential to reach the Senior Civil Service have consistent levels of skills and experience. Further details are available at: http://www.civilservice.gov.uk/the_future_of_the_civil_service/delivery_and_reform/
   professional_skills_for_government/index.asp http://psg.civilservice.gov.uk [revised 01/03/06]
3. The Prime Minister and Sir Andrew Turnbull set out their priorities for the reform of the civil service at the Delivery and Values event at London's Docklands on 24th February 2004. Full details and speeches can be found at: http://www.civilservice.gov.uk/deliveryvalues.asp http://www.civilservice.gov.uk/archive/delivery_and_reform/delivery_and_values/index.asp [revised 01/03/06]
4. Membership of the GCN will be open to communications staff in the devolved administrations in Scotland and Wales, including present members of the GICS. This will allow them to benefit from the professional development standards and resources the new network will provide.
5. A full copy of the speech is available at: http://www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/about_the_cabinet_office/speeches

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