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.
Families Thriving Together is a charity founded in Southeast England in 2022 by CEO Michelle Tucker, which brings parenting support to hundreds of families each year – most of them through referrals from the local authority. Michelle has years of experience delivering local authority settings and has a unique understanding of how local authorities and local charities can work well together.
Wigan Council and partners implemented a targeted, insight-led programme to increase uptake of the Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine in response to rising measles cases and declining vaccination coverage.
This case study describes how the charity Dingley’s Promise worked in partnership with parents carers to ensure a successful inclusion project reached as many families and early years practitioners as possible. It describes the strategic approach taken and practical tips gained from working closely with local authorities (LAs) as well as the parent carers involved.
Nottingham City Council developed its first Best Start Strategy (2025–2035) through co production with partners, parents, caregivers and children to tackle inequalities and improve outcomes from pre conception to age five, using data and lived experience to shape a child centred, preventative approach.
This case study describes how Parent champions were recruited by the LA through a range of services working with families. These parents worked alongside Dingley's and the LA and led their own activities to drive training engagement and develop parent on parent support locally.
The Anti-Poverty Strategy 2024-2027 was developed to put this commitment into action. It was inspired by a clear ambition: to create the conditions in which all residents can thrive, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Liverpool is committed to reducing rates of violence within the city and caring for prisoners and their families. Their Prison Parenting and Engagement Lead has successfully integrated a number of programmes within HMP Altcourse that support not only fathers serving sentences, but their children at all stages of development, from antenatal to school age.
Lancashire County Council identified improving school readiness and the proportion of children achieving a Good Level of Development (GLD) as a key strategic priority. System intelligence showed that too many children were reaching school age without the core developmental foundations needed to thrive
The National Literacy Trust (NLT) works to ensure that all families—particularly those living in financial hardship—can engage in meaningful early learning experiences. Their approach emphasises no cost or low cost activities, inclusive practice, and reducing the mental load on parents.