Demonstrate a critical understanding of effective techniques of information preparation and presentation within a specific context.

Assignment Brief

BUS6005 Business Analysis and Planning Assignment Brief As part of the formal assessment for the programme you are required to submit a Business Analysis and Planning portfolio of tasks. Please refer to your Student Handbook for full details of the programme assessment scheme and general information on preparing and submitting assignments.

After completing the module, you should be able to:

• Demonstrate a critical understanding of effective techniques of information preparation and presentation within a specific context.
• Identify and implement a data collection strategy using a range of primary and secondary sources
• Apply a complex range of techniques to analyse data
• Utilise software as an aid to decision making and control

Task (4000 words)

Your business plan will show a degree of research and your findings has to reflect on the strategic commissioning work in the social services of the Local Authority. Some of your report must present your findings about the viability, demand and opportunity for collaboration to make your new service a quality public sector engagement with the sponsors and stakeholders. You are to use a simple data management tool (an Excel application) to accomplish your tasks and your report must show the financials and the explanation of your calculations.

Sample Answer

Business Plan for a Public Sector Adult Mental Health Support Service

Introduction

This business plan outlines the development and delivery of a new adult mental health support service, to be commissioned by a Local Authority as part of its strategic commissioning work. The aim of this service is to meet increasing public demand for community-based mental health support, improve quality of life for residents, and reduce pressure on hospitals and emergency services.

This plan explores:

• Market demand and gaps in current services

• Financial viability using cost and income projections

• Data collection strategies

• Opportunities for collaboration

• Use of Microsoft Excel as a data management tool

• Stakeholder engagement and value for money

The plan uses both primary data (surveys/interviews) and secondary data (government reports, NHS statistics, local authority documents). Calculations and projections are demonstrated using Excel, explained in detail below.

1. Background and Need for the Service

1.1 Strategic Context

In recent years, local authorities have seen a rise in people needing mental health support, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. Many existing services are stretched, leading to long waiting times and poor outcomes. Strategic plans, like the NHS Long-Term Plan and the Local Health and Wellbeing Strategy, stress the importance of early support and prevention at a community level.

1.2 Policy Drivers

The proposed service aligns with:

• NHS Mental Health Implementation Plan

• Care Act 2014 (duty to promote wellbeing)

• Local Authority commissioning priorities

• NICE guidelines for mental health support

2. Market Research and Demand

2.1 Primary Research

We conducted a local survey of 120 residents, supported by short interviews with care professionals and community leaders. Findings:

• 65% felt mental health support was hard to access

• 70% preferred local support centres over hospital-based care

• 80% would use drop-in support if available

2.2 Secondary Research

• ONS data shows a 20% increase in reported anxiety and depression (2020–2023)

• Local Authority Public Health Report highlights a gap in preventative support for adults aged 25–55

• Local GP practices report long waiting lists for counselling

3. Service Proposal

A new community-based mental health hub will offer:

• Counselling and peer support sessions

• Mental health workshops

• Drop-in wellbeing sessions

• Signposting and referrals

The service will operate Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm with extended hours once a week. It will be based in an existing council-owned community centre, reducing start-up costs.

4. Stakeholder Engagement and Collaboration

4.1 Key Stakeholders

• Local NHS Trusts

• Social workers

• Local GPs

• Community mental health charities

• Local residents

4.2 Collaboration Opportunities

We plan to partner with:

• A local charity for trained volunteers

• A university (for placement students in psychology)

• The NHS (for fast-track referrals)