Hartlepool Borough Council is ranked 6th nationally for productivity, with research highlighting strong, value‑for‑money services despite major financial pressures.
Hartlepool Borough Council has been recognised as one of the highest‑performing local authorities in the country, following the publication of the latest IMPOWER Index which ranks Hartlepool 6th nationally for productivity.
The Index provides an independent assessment of how effectively councils convert public funding into meaningful outcomes for residents. Hartlepool’s strong performance demonstrates that the Council is delivering exceptional value at a time when many local authorities are facing unprecedented financial pressures.
This recognition comes during a particularly challenging period for councils across England, with rising demand for essential services placing increasing strain on budgets. In Hartlepool, pressures continue to grow particularly within children’s social care. Despite these challenges, the IMPOWER Index confirms that Hartlepool is providing high‑quality support and strong outcomes for its communities.
The result builds on significant achievements for the Council in recent years, including its Children’s Services being rated Outstanding by Ofsted and its Adult Social Care Services being rated Good by the Care Quality Commission.
Councillor Pamela Hargreaves, Leader of Hartlepool Borough Council, said: “This national ranking shows exactly what we’ve known for some time – Hartlepool is punching well above its weight. To be named the 6th most productive council in England, and the only one in the North East to reach the top 10, is a remarkable achievement and a source of real pride for our borough.
“It proves that even in an incredibly challenging financial climate, we are delivering more, reaching further and achieving better outcomes for local people. I am immensely proud of our hardworking staff, our partners and our communities.
“Their dedication is the reason Hartlepool is now recognised nationally. But we’re not stopping here – our Transformation and Efficiency Programme is continuing at pace to deliver improvements and drive efficiency across our services so that every pound works even harder for Hartlepool.”
For residents, this national recognition provides reassurance that the funding the Council receives is being spent wisely, transparently and in ways that deliver meaningful outcomes. It underlines the progress made in recent years across crucial services supporting children, families and adults, and reflects Hartlepool’s commitment to ensuring that every pound of public money delivers maximum value and long‑term benefit for the town.
Denise McGuckin, Chief Executive of Hartlepool Borough Council, said: “This recognition is a testament to the incredible dedication of our workforce and partners across the borough. Achieving a top‑ten national position demonstrates that we are delivering high‑quality, value‑for‑money services even in the face of significant financial pressures and rising demand for our services.
“Our focus has always been on supporting our residents and delivering the best possible outcomes for them. I am extremely proud of everyone who has contributed to this success, and we remain committed to building on this strong foundation to ensure Hartlepool continues to thrive.”
The Council remains committed to working closely with communities, partners and local organisations to build on this achievement and ensure Hartlepool continues to be a town where people feel supported, valued and proud to live.