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.
Central Bedfordshire council undertook a spatial modelling exercise to better understand the challenges of a increasing local population and plan how it could meet the increasing demand.
The pandemic and the cost of living resulted in the council recognising the importance of getting hardship funds to struggling households as quickly and effectively as possible. In response, a ‘cash-first’ approach to grant provision has been adopted which involves the prioritisation of cash grants over in-kind support such as food parcels or shopping vouchers.
In 2020, support was agreed from Derbyshire County Council's public health budget to promote access to affordable lending through the provision of a dedicated Service Development Officer and funding targeted at promoting affordable lending.
The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead has responded proactively to the rising cost of living by leading an impactful campaign with community partners, highlighting the support that can help those struggling to cope to hopefully avoid the need for crisis support.
Alvanley Family Practice is an award-winning, person-centred, evidence-based family practice, located in Woodley, Greater Manchester. Their collaborative and forward-thinking social prescribing methodology has gained international recognition amongst healthcare professionals and is being dubbed 'The Alvanley Way'.
Brighter Futures is one of the programmes which provides support for adults with mental health needs to access cultural engagement opportunities across Hampshire. The programme is funded by Hampshire County Council’s Adult Community Learning programme and is delivered in partnership with local health and community providers.
Shropshire Libraries, in partnership with public health deliver a myriad of social prescribing opportunities across the county, including 150 reading groups taking place in people’s homes, in libraries and sometimes even pubs.
This case study shows how Richmond and Wandsworth councils (who operate a shared staffing arrangement) were able to significantly reduce the time and effort required to maintain their performance tool.
The Women’s Health Network in Bradford has been at the forefront of tackling the health inequalities women face for the past five years. It holds regular meetings, hosts talks, events, focus groups and workshops to influence service design and engage women from all communities.