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.
Nottingham City Council partnered with focusgov to co-produce 'Plugz', a mobile app designed with care experienced young people to improve access to support, information and opportunities. Since launching in 2024, more than 40 per cent of Nottingham’s care leaver cohort are regularly using the app, with 774 users and a 326 per cent year-on-year increase. Plugz provides a central, accessible tool with real-time updates, direct communication and tailored local content. Increased engagement across features such as events and discounts demonstrates how co-produced digital tools can improve accessibility, strengthen participation and support both young people and practitioners.
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.
Cheshire West and Chester Council has transformed its traditional youth funding approach by introducing a young people-led grant model over the past two years. Previously, funding was repeatedly awarded to the same organisations with limited innovation or strategic alignment. A £55,000 fund was redesigned to prioritise grassroots initiatives, embed youth voice, and ensure sustainability. Young people were given 51 per cent of voting rights in funding decisions, supported by structured youth voice systems and training in decision-making.
North East Lincolnshire developed a volunteer programme to strengthen Best Start Family Hubs through peer support and community capacity. Building on Sure Start learning, the aim was to increase engagement, support early intervention, and create pathways into employment for local residents.
This case study shows how Dingley’s Promise Specialist SEND Early Years Centre’s improve outcomes for children with SEND, reduce pressure on costly statutory systems, increase successful transitions into mainstream education, and strengthen specialist sufficiency in the early years. It also demonstrates why investing earlier is more effective and more affordable than waiting until needs escalate.
This case study explores the structure and development of the SEND Early Years Service in East Sussex, the services provided to early years settings and families, the emerging evidence of impact, and the future direction of the work in line with Best Start for Life and Family Hub developments.