When I speak to new starters, among my well-rehearsed stock phrases, I usually say that working in public services is an alchemy of head and heart – business efficiency but delivered with a large dose of human empathy.

This is often met with respectful wariness, but I sense that there is a growing recognition of the skills needed to meld the two elements so that ‘quality services' means being both cost-effective and achieving a caring outcome. In this context I am continuing with my efforts to ensure that Elmbridge BC is truly a compassionate council.