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.
Rotherham requested Partners in Care and Health’s (PCH) support to undertake the public health strengths and risks self-assessment tool. The work identified a series of strengths and challenges from community engagement to supporting members which are now being addressed. The support comes ahead of a three-day regional Association of Directors of Public Health (ADPH) peer review later this year.
Support from Partners in Care and Health (PCH) focused on re-shaping the work of the health and wellbeing board (HWB) following a period when it lost some focus; changes made to way meetings are organised; council say board is now in “really good place” and praises way PCH peers brought new ideas to the table.
Coventry and Warwickshire’s health and wellbeing boards (HWB) had been meeting jointly for a number of years; Partners in Care and Health (PCH) brought in amid concern this partnership work was duplicating the move towards integrated care systems; focus of the HWBs and integrated care partnerships sharpened thanks to fresh perspective and challenging questions posed by PCH peers.
Partners in Care and Health (PCH) peers provided support to improve integrated working at place; workshops were held leading to two workstreams on admissions avoidance and discharge to assess. The new director of adult social services says the process helped her hit the ground running.
Brighton and Hove Council employs a multi-agency, stepped care approach to support children and young people’s mental health. These services are embedded in every secondary school, extend to primary schools and colleges, and offer a range of interventions to support mental health at all levels.
In 2016, Gloucestershire schools faced high exclusion rates, leading to the introduction of restorative practices, which significantly reduced suspensions and improved attendance. Now implemented in over 70 schools, the approach fosters safer environments, better mental health, and improved teacher retention.
Bee Counted is an inspection process where young people inspect health services across Greater Manchester. The aim of ensuring health services are responsive to the needs of young people by listening to their views and acting on them.
Established in 2020 Bee Heard works in partnership with the Community and Crisis Mental Health Boards. The aim is to give young people aged 16-24, from across Greater Manchester an opportunity to shape and advise on a wide range of mental health services.
Helping Hands is a partnership between Phoenix Detached Youth Project and Connexions, North Tyneside, providing integrated support for mental health, emotional wellbeing, education, and employment. The programme offers ongoing group and 1:1 support for young people facing challenges like anxiety, low mood, and social isolation.
In response to rising mental health concerns and a lack of facilities for young people in St Neots, Cllr Claire Mascarenhas spearheaded a community-driven initiative. This included hiring a dedicated Youth Worker, involving young people in the recruitment process, and securing additional funding to further support local youth mental health needs.