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.
This inspirational programme is an award-winning research-based family literacy programme developed by the Early Childhood Unit (ECU) at the National Children’s Bureau in partnership with the University of Sheffield.
Peterborough has a strong strategic focus on reducing parental conflict. The dedicated Parental Conflict Lead, based within Children’s Social Care Targeted Support, oversees the local offer, promotes courses with partners, and supports referrals from anyone working with families. Families can also self‑refer, supported by wider marketing.
Wirral Borough Council has embedded Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library within Early Childhood Services, leading to improved communication and language outcomes and reduced inequality.
BookTrust and Barnsley Council’s Public Health and Communities Directorate partnered on a pilot in The Dearne to provide families in high-deprivation areas with increased access to shared reading support.
Derby Family Hubs are passionate about the work they do to promote early literacy for children in Derby city. They embed Bookstart programme resources in the work they do across this area.
The Old Kent Road Family Zone (OKRFZ) is a groundbreaking community-led initiative transforming how local government addresses health inequalities in one of London's most under resourced areas. Facilitated by Surrey Square Primary School (part of the Big Education Trust) and funded by Impact on Urban Health, the zone operates on a radical principle: working 'with' communities rather than 'for' or 'to' them. By placing children, families and residents at the heart of decision-making, OKRFZ is creating sustainable, systemic change that tackles the root causes of poor health and wellbeing.
Mansfield District Council has been selected as one of three national Testing Hubs by the Justlife Foundation to lead a two year project improving temporary accommodation for homeless families.
This case study details how CELT’s civic strategy aims to foster a community response and approach to improving outcomes for children in the mid Cornwall area. To capture this learning an interview took place with Claire Bunting Director of Reach for CELT, led by Ann Van Dyke.