A COUNCIL'S private sector partner has received maximum points in an independent performance review.
HBS runs the revenues and benefits service for Middlesbrough Council which has been classed as "excellent'' by the Audit Commission and awarded a four point rating - the maximum it can achieve.
The business service provider replaced a dozen reception points across the town with a single centre when it began its £260m, ten-year partnership with Middlesbrough Council in June 2001.
Regional managing director Tim Lonsdale said: "In an area like Middlesbrough, with more than its share of social disadvantage, it is absolutely vital that the benefits service is efficient and accessible. In Middlesbrough, HBS has shown you can marry people-skills with technology to create a service that is effective, but also sympathetic.''
Brendan Brown, who heads the integrated revenues and benefits service, said: "We've adapted well to the change and continued to deliver an excellent service."
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