Innovation in local government is about improving the lives of the people in our
communities. Browse through our case studies to see the many innovative programmes councils are involved
in.
The Mandarin Mums session at the Isle of Dogs Family Hub is an innovative, culturally tailored initiative designed to support Mandarin-speaking families in the Southeast Locality of Tower Hamlets. This case study outlines the pressing need identified within the local community and details how the session effectively addressed these challenges, fostering inclusion, wellbeing, and empowerment.
In recognition of its deep-rooted military heritage, Portsmouth City Council has developed a comprehensive, collaborative approach to supporting homeless veterans. With over 37,000 residents identifying as part of the Armed Forces community, around 18% of the city’s population, the council has embedded veteran support into its strategic planning and service delivery.
The Isle of Wight Family Hubs enhanced antenatal support by integrating maternity services with Family Hub programmes, notably the evidence-based “Welcome to the World.” This initiative improved early engagement, increased parental confidence, and strengthened pathways to postnatal services. Midwives refer families via Badgernet at 16 weeks, boosting access to workshops and support. Data shows rising participation and improved parental wellbeing, especially among underrepresented group
This case study examines how Torbay Council and its partners developed robust data sharing arrangements across three agencies to improve Family Hub service delivery. It highlights practical steps including establishing a shared vision and transitioning from separate IT systems to a single centralised platform, offering valuable lessons for other local authorities implementing multi-agency data sharing.
In June 2025, Dudley Council launched a new spoke within its Family Hub Network at Halesowen Leisure Centre, marking a significant step in expanding access to integrated support for families.
Barnsley Council has six area councils and 21 ward alliances involving all councillors along with local community representatives. These both have devolved powers and dedicated funding to support local priorities.
Preventing and relieving homelessness for refugees and former asylum seekers in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP), especially those arriving via Ukraine sponsorship, Afghan resettlement, and family reunification schemes.
Barnsley’s Family Hub network works across the borough to ensure families receive the right support in the right place at the right time. A central part of the Family Hubs offer is support for parents. The approach is rooted in the belief that stronger parent–child relationships lead to better outcomes for children, and that early support should be available in familiar, local settings, without judgement.
Historically, breastfeeding rates in Coventry have been below the national average. The infant feeding team wanted to harness the opportunity presented by the Family Hubs and Start for Life programme to increase engagement with their infant feeding services and encourage more mothers to breastfeed.
In Norfolk, the Parent-Infant Relationship service (PAIRS) and Perinatal Mental Health (PMH) service had a well-established offering before receiving Family Hubs and Start for Life programme funding.