Connected Places Cooperation 

DSIT Calls for Enhanced Collaboration in Connected Places Initiatives

The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) is advocating for increased cooperation among government bodies to advance connected places initiatives. These initiatives use IoT technologies to improve public services and infrastructure.

DSIT plans to enhance cross-Whitehall cooperation, develop training programs for connected place managers, and create resources on AI applications. Efforts also include straightforward public explanations and a central repository of resources.

This collaborative approach aims to streamline the development and management of connected places, ensuring efficient and effective use of technology in public services.

Labour's Whistleblowing Reforms 

Labour Government Plans Major Overhaul of Whistleblowing Protections

The new Labour government is set to introduce significant reforms to whistleblowing protections as part of a broader Employment Bill. Key proposals include abolishing the qualifying period for unfair dismissal rights and ending exploitative zero-hours contracts.

Labour's manifesto promises to strengthen workplace whistleblowing protections, potentially featuring in the Employment Bill within the first 100 days. A consultation period is expected for many proposed changes.

The proposed Single Enforcement Body aims to consolidate existing regulators, enhancing the enforcement of employment rights. Labour's commitment to whistleblowing reform seeks to ensure all workers are protected and their concerns investigated.

Digital Health Network 

WHO Launches European Network for Digital Healthcare Collaboration

The World Health Organization (WHO) has established the Strategic Partners Initiative for Data and Digital Health (SPI-DDH) to foster collaboration among 53 European member states. The network aims to enhance digital healthcare adoption, facilitate knowledge exchange, and develop future healthcare scenarios.

Four working groups will focus on digitalisation, AI, home healthcare, standards, interoperability, and public health. This initiative aligns with WHO's Global Strategy on Digital Health 2020-25.

WHO emphasises the importance of equity and human rights in digital health, addressing challenges like financing, implementation, and governance. The initiative seeks to overcome issues such as poor interoperability and limited digital health budgets.

Digital Framework 

LGA Unveils Comprehensive Digitalisation Framework for Councils

The Local Government Association (LGA) has introduced a Local Government Digitalisation Framework to aid councils in leveraging digital technology. The framework includes three missions, six enablers, and six good practice principles.

The missions focus on transforming services, enhancing residents' digital skills, and ensuring secure, sustainable connectivity. Enablers cover data use, connectivity, leadership, capability, collaboration, and value for money.

The framework aims to foster innovation and efficiency in local government, promoting a shared vision and inclusive approach to digital transformation. It builds on recommendations from the LGA's recent white paper on central-local government relations.

Education & Skills

King's Speech: Labour's Education Reforms Unveiled

King Charles III's first speech under the Labour government introduced significant education reforms. Key initiatives include apprenticeship levy changes, the establishment of Skills England, and AI legislation.

The government plans to enhance educational standards, recruit 6,500 new teachers, and eliminate VAT exemption on private school fees.

Sector leaders welcomed the reforms but stressed the need for sufficient funding and meaningful consultation. The focus is on collaboration, flexibility, and addressing inequities to ensure successful implementation. .