Many different organisations contribute to people's quality of life in a variety of ways - some locally, others regionally or nationally. The issues that affect our local quality of life cross administrative, geographical, and organisational boundaries. An effective response therefore demands partnership working across sectors, involving not only the key public agencies but also the private, community and voluntary sectors and local people.

Partnership NK provides a means of tackling problems in the District, whether they are problems of failure, such as deprivation, or problems of success, such as rapid economic growth.

Tackling key issues for local people - such as crime, jobs, education, health and housing - requires a range of local organisations working together. The more partners work together, with local people, the more they can achieve and the more likely it is that:

• the benefits of sustainable growth are achieved across the District;
• economic, social and physical regeneration happens and is sustained;
• public services work better and are delivered in way which meets people's needs;
• local people can influence decision-making and take action to improve their neighbourhoods; and
• business and the community and voluntary sectors can play a full and equal part.