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.
Oldham Metropolitan Borough Council has five District Community Councils. The Community Councils empower elected members together to agree local priorities, coordinate neighbourhood services and direct place-based funding.
Manchester City Council have established ward coordination meetings in each ward across the city. These meetings allow elected members the opportunity to access intelligence about their ward, set local priorities, and engage with council and wider partners, residents and communities to make progress in their neighbourhoods.
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.
Since 2021, Hounslow’s Community Development Team has pioneered a place-based approach to community engagement, partnership working, and local democracy. By embedding officers in neighbourhoods, facilitating networks of voluntary and community groups, and transforming traditional council forums into collaborative spaces, the team has built the infrastructure for genuine civic participation and collective action.
Buckinghamshire Council has reshaped its previously fragmented advice system into a more cohesive support offer for residents facing financial insecurity. Working with Citizens Advice Buckinghamshire and strengthening referral pathways has enabled the council to reach a wider range of residents and deliver support that is improving financial stability and overall wellbeing.
Portsmouth City Council’s ‘Ancient Sudan’ exhibition at the Portsmouth Museum and Art Gallery, shone light on one of the largest empires in the ancient world, as well as ongoing efforts to protect cultural heritage during protracted conflict.
Oxfordshire’s ‘Whole Systems Approach to Physical Activity’ (WSAPA) provides an evidence-based approach to tackling physical inactivity and health inequalities through interventions delivered in partnership with district councils across Oxfordshire.