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.
In recognition of its deep-rooted military heritage, Portsmouth City Council has developed a comprehensive, collaborative approach to supporting homeless veterans. With over 37,000 residents identifying as part of the Armed Forces community, around 18% of the city’s population, the council has embedded veteran support into its strategic planning and service delivery.
Feel Good in the Forest is a social prescribing initiative from Forestry England and Sport England, designed to support people with mild to moderate health conditions through nature-based activities. It is delivered at four forests including Chopwell Wood, Gateshead, and Thames Chase, London. It helps local communities improve their wellbeing by engaging with nature and physical activity. Forestry England has worked with Havering Council and Gateshead Council to help address local population health need, support the delivery of strategic priorities and connect more people with nature for their wellbeing.
The development and implementation of the Enhanced Infant Feeding Service provide a community-based frenotomy clinic across LLR, developed through partnership between Family Hubs, LPT, and the ICB.
Babies have a voice – that is, they have a right to have their views taken seriously in decisions affecting their lives. This voice is best interpreted through warm relationships with those who know them well. This resource covers the importance of listening to babies’ views to understand their experiences and give them the best start in life.
A growing demand on care resources across the health and social care continue to challenge the system. This is leading to missed operational standards, including delayed hospital discharges and potential risks to patient safety. In particular, the availability of community care hours is a key factor in acute hospital delays.
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.
Recognising that fragmented perinatal parent infant mental health support led to poorer outcomes, Sheffield City Council brought together Health, the Local Authority and other key partners to create a citywide Perinatal Mental Health, Infant Mental Health, and Parent Infant Relationship connected pathway of care. The model has enabled increased integration and collaboration across services improved early identification, prevention and equity of access for communities experiencing marginalisation.