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Unallocated case
A case that requires the attention of a named social worker or other key worker but has no allocated worker, most likely due to staff shortages.
See also: allocated case
Big issue: social care staff
Useful link: British Association of Social Workers

Unison
Giant public sector trade union that represents more than 1m workers in the local government, health, community and voluntary sectors. Has taken critical line on the government's plans for modernising public services and opposes initiatives such as the private finance initiative.
See also: private finance initiative
Related articles
Useful link: Unison

Unitary council
A local authority that delivers the full range of local government services itself, rather than splitting them between county and district councils. Usually covers urban or other built up areas.
Related articles
Useful link: Oultwood local government website index

Unit manager
The manager of a residential home or day centre.
Related articles
Useful link: National Care Homes Association

Universal bank
The government plans to create this new institution to offer financial services to the 3.5m people without bank accounts.
Related articles
Useful link: Post Office - universal banking services (pdf)

Urban taskforce
Group of policy experts put together by the government and chaired by the architect Lord Rogers of Riverside. The taskforce's influential 1999 report helped shape the urban white paper.
Related articles
Useful link: Office of the Deputy Prime Minister - urban policy unit

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