We invited the Local Government Association (LGA) to carry out a peer challenge as part of our commitment to continuous improvement. The process gives us access to an independent and constructive review, helping us understand how we are performing and where we can go further.
For us, this is an opportunity to step back and gain an honest, external perspective. By drawing on the experience of senior peers from other local authorities, the review helps us understand what is working well and where we can strengthen our approach. It also allows us to learn from best practice elsewhere and apply those lessons in a way that reflects Devon’s local context.
Inviting a peer challenge is also about being open and accountable. We want to be transparent about the progress we have made, the challenges we face, and the improvements we are working towards. Sharing this with an independent group helps build trust with residents, partners and stakeholders, and supports a culture of learning and continuous improvement across the organisation.
A review at a time of change and challenge
This review comes at an important point for us as an organisation. Following the 2025 elections, we introduced a new Strategic Plan for 2025–2029, setting out our ambition to build a positive future for Devon where everyone can thrive. This plan reflects what we have heard from residents, staff and partners, and provides a clear framework for our priorities and decision-making.
Alongside this, we have made significant changes to how we work. We have strengthened our leadership arrangements, refreshed our governance, and introduced a “one‑council” approach to improve how we collaborate across services and deliver for our communities. These changes are helping us create clearer accountability, improve decision-making and focus more strongly on outcomes.
At the same time, we are responding to a range of growing pressures. Demand for services continues to rise, particularly in areas such as adult social care and support for children and young people. We are also facing wider challenges around housing affordability, infrastructure and the impact of financial constraints on local government.
These issues are complex and interconnected, and they require long-term, coordinated responses. The peer challenge gives us the opportunity to test our approach, learn from others and make sure we are as well prepared as possible for the future.
Supporting our ambition to improve
Ultimately, we see the peer challenge as an important part of how we continue to improve. It supports our ambition to strengthen services, improve outcomes and make a positive difference to the people and places of Devon.
By inviting external challenge at this stage, we are taking a proactive approach. We want to make sure that our plans, priorities and ways of working are robust, evidence-based and focused on delivering the best possible outcomes for our communities.