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.
Lancashire County Council tackled their foster carer shortage by launching the Pause and Reflect (PAR) model. This initiative offers up to 28 days of emergency care for children with complex needs, allowing time for assessment and calmer transitions. Experienced foster carers receive enhanced support and financial incentives.
The Solihull Family Hub App is a digital platform designed to connect families with local services, support, and activities. Currently available in 19 community languages (more can be added), the app ensures accessibility and inclusion for Solihull’s diverse population.
Coventry City Council, along with the multiagency partnership, has developed a city-wide model of integrated family support through eight Family Hub locations.
The Health Equity Teams (HET) programme in Lewisham was developed to address racial health inequalities identified in the Birmingham and Lewisham African and Caribbean Health Inequalities (BLACHIR) report.
Early Support Group (ESG) was delivered by Children’s Centre’s practitioners prior to Family Hubs funding, so is part of our core offer.
In 2022 Derby City received Family Hubs funding and commissioned the Speech and Language Therapy (SALT) service to support the delivery of the Neurodiverse pathway, that surrounds ESG.
The Public Health team within Hackney Council is working with partners across maternity and children’s services to promote holistic awareness and support for foetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD)--an often overlooked and underdiagnosed health condition affecting children and families exposed to alcohol during pregnancy.
Blackpool Council has developed a unique campus model for delivering integrated services to children, young people, and families. This model is built around three Family Hubs located in the north, central, and south areas of Blackpool.