Issue 5, 2008 - Improving Value for Money

Background

Members will be aware that in 2001 the Managers implemented their VfM programme. The aims of VfM included;

• ensuring that “best practice” is applied to claims handling services, both by the Managers and by third party suppliers;
• identifying ways of improving and increasing the cost effectiveness of those services; and
• harnessing technology to increase efficiency and collate information.

VfM has achieved a number of these aims, notably in the context of “best practice” claims handling. Over the past 12 months an extensive review has been undertaken in order to move the VfM project forward. This review has taken place against the background of a significant increase in the costs

of legal services particularly in the UK, as well as technological enhancements which offer new opportunities for monitoring and controlling legal costs.