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IWFM and the government property profession (GPP) have established a strategic partnership to drive up standards and innovation across the government estate and workplace and facilities management (WFM) more widely.
The collaboration represents the continuing elevation of WFM standards across the public sector by focusing on accreditation, collaboration and talent development leading to a more efficient, effective and sustainable future for the government’s property portfolio, addressing critical maintenance issues and making a more resilient public sector estate.
Putting organisational capability at the heart of its strategy, the GPP is committed to accrediting 90% of government workplace and facilities professionals in senior practitioner and leadership roles with approved professional bodies by 2030.
The level of ambition underlines the importance of professional development aligned to recognised standards in managing complex environments. The GPP also wants to attract and retain civil service talent through the Property Fast Stream, designed to appeal to candidates who might not have considered a career in the public sector.
This new strategic partnership programme marks a significant step forward in strengthening the relationship between the Government Property Profession and IWFM and will create meaningful growth opportunities for the 7500+ property professionals across government.
By combining deep professional insight with practical development support, this partnership will help ensure our workforce is equipped, connected and ready to lead the future of public sector property.
The partnership is expected to help the government to address the £49 billion maintenance backlog identified by the National Audit Office earlier this year, which is vital to maintain functional and safe public service facilities and to ensure the effective delivery of essential services.
It aligns with ongoing IWFM programmes, including comprehensive guidance on asset management and a Level 6 Workplace Diploma.
Jonathan Nobbs, IWFM Director of Membership and Partnerships said: ‘For many years, IWFM has enjoyed a strong collaboration with the Cabinet Office. The signing of the partnership marks a new phase of our work together, centred on a shared strategic ambition to improve standards, to support existing facilities management professionals to be the best they can be and to inspire others to be part of this impactful profession.’
