A comprehensive guide to enhancing local government services in the UK

Empowering communities for better future

Local councils are the lifeblood of communities across the United Kingdom, providing essential services and support to residents of all ages and backgrounds. From education and healthcare to housing and environmental protection, councils play a vital role in ensuring the well-being and prosperity of their constituents. In an ever-changing landscape of societal needs and challenges, it is imperative for councils to have access to the tools, resources, and support necessary to adapt, innovate, and drive continuous improvement in service delivery.

The Local Government Association (LGA), as the voice of local government in England and Wales, recognises the crucial role that councils play in their communities. That’s why the LGA has launched its ambitious 2024/25 Sector Support programme, aimed at providing councils with new and enhanced tools to harness opportunities, drive improvement, and deliver critical services effectively.

Children’s services: Prioritising the next generation

Children are the future of our communities, and ensuring their well-being and development is a top priority for local councils. According to recent statistics from the Department for Education, there were approximately 12.2 million children aged 0 to 15 years in the UK in 2020, highlighting the significant demand for children’s services nationwide.

Under the Sector Support programme, the LGA is committed to strengthening children’s services across all regions of the UK. This includes providing governance leadership training, financial management support, workforce development opportunities, and peer-to-peer learning initiatives tailored to the unique needs of children and families.

Did you know?

In 2020, local authorities in England received 646,120 referrals to children’s social care services, highlighting the immense demand for support and intervention.

The number of children in need of protection in England increased by 4% between March 2020 and March 2021, underscoring the ongoing challenges facing children’s services.

Partners in care and health (adult social care): Supporting vulnerable adults

Adult social care services are essential for safeguarding the well-being and dignity of vulnerable adults in our communities. According to the Office for National Statistics, there were an estimated 12.5 million people aged 65 and over in the UK in 2020, with this figure projected to reach 17.7 million by 2050, highlighting the growing demand for adult social care services.

Through the Sector Support programme, the LGA is working to strengthen governance leadership, optimise financial management, enhance workforce skills, promote transformational approaches, and facilitate peer support networks within adult social care services.

Did you know?

Approximately 1.5 million people in the UK received publicly funded adult social care services in 2020, reflecting the significant demand for support among vulnerable adults.

The COVID-19 pandemic placed unprecedented strain on adult social care services, with care home occupancy rates falling to 80% in 2020, the lowest level in over a decade.

Cyber, digital, and technology: Embracing innovation

In today’s digital age, councils must leverage technology to improve service delivery, enhance efficiency, and meet the evolving needs of their communities. According to the Government Digital Service, 94% of UK households had internet access in 2020, emphasising the importance of digital inclusion and accessibility in local government services.

The Sector Support programme offers guidance and resources to help councils navigate the complexities of cybersecurity, digital transformation, and emerging technologies, ensuring they remain at the forefront of innovation and digital inclusion.

Did you know?

Cybersecurity incidents reported to the National Cyber Security Centre increased by 20% in 2020 compared to the previous year, highlighting the growing threat posed by cyber attacks.

The use of digital technology in local government services has increased significantly in recent years, with 89% of councils in England offering online services for residents in 2021, up from 64% in 2015.

One public estate (OPE): Collaborating for community benefit

Collaboration and partnership working are key drivers of effective service delivery. The OPE initiative under the Sector Support programme encourages councils to work together, streamline operations, and maximise the use of public sector assets to deliver better outcomes for communities. By pooling resources and expertise, councils can unlock new opportunities for economic growth, regeneration, and community development.

Did you know?

Since its inception in 2013, the OPE programme has generated over £20 million in capital receipts and delivered over 1,200 new homes, demonstrating the significant impact of collaborative working on local communities.

The OPE programme aims to release land with capacity for at least 25,000 new homes and create over 44,000 jobs by 2024, illustrating its potential to drive economic growth and prosperity.

Planning: Shaping sustainable communities

Effective planning is essential for sustainable development and community prosperity. Through initiatives like the Planning Advisory Service (PAS) and Pathways to Planning, the Sector Support programme provides councils with the tools and expertise needed to navigate the planning process and deliver high-quality development outcomes. By engaging with stakeholders and prioritising community involvement, councils can ensure that planning decisions reflect the needs and aspirations of local residents.

Did you know?

In 2020/21, local planning authorities in England decided on 377,700 planning applications, highlighting the significant role that planning plays in shaping the built environment.

Sustainable development is a key focus of the planning system, with over 300,000 new homes granted planning permission in England in 2020/21 meeting the government’s sustainability criteria.

Procurement and sustainability: Driving value and innovation

Procurement practices play a crucial role in delivering value for money and promoting sustainability. The Sector Support programme offers councils guidance on sustainable procurement practices, helping them make informed decisions that benefit both communities and the environment. By prioritising social value, ethical sourcing, and environmental sustainability, councils can drive innovation and create positive outcomes for society as a whole.

Did you know?

Public sector procurement spending in the UK totalled £292 billion in 2020/21, highlighting the scale of opportunity for delivering social, economic, and environmental benefits through procurement.

Sustainable procurement practices have the potential to generate significant cost savings, with studies estimating that sustainable procurement initiatives can deliver savings of up to 20% on procurement costs.

In addition to these focus areas, the Sector Support programme also includes initiatives to support culture, tourism, and sport, funded by Sport England. Furthermore, there are paid-for programmes available, such as Adult Social Care Peer Challenges and the NGDP Finance Scheme, which complement the wider support offer.

Councils are encouraged to actively engage with the Sector Support programme and take advantage of the resources and opportunities available to drive positive change in their communities. By working together, sharing best practices, and embracing innovation, local authorities can continue to empower communities, improve services, and create a brighter future for all residents.

The challenges facing local government are significant, but with the right support and resources, councils can overcome obstacles, seize opportunities, and make a meaningful difference in the lives of those they serve. The Sector Support programme is a testament to the LGA’s commitment to supporting councils on their journey towards excellence and ensuring that every community thrives.

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