Weekly Newsletter - 20.06.2024

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Local Government Updates

AI Collaboration 

LocalGov Digital and LGA Launch AI Practitioners Group 

LocalGov Digital and the Local Government Association (LGA) have established an AI Practitioners Group to foster peer learning and practical experimentation in AI within local government. This initiative will complement the LGA's existing AI Network, providing a platform for councils to share their experiences and strategies in AI application. The group’s first online meeting is scheduled for June 24, featuring show-and-tell sessions, discussions, and workshops. Phil Rumens of LocalGov Digital emphasised the group's role in helping councils explore and implement AI technologies, whether they are just beginning or already on their AI journey. This collaborative effort aims to enhance the understanding and use of AI across local government sectors.

Digital Education Boost 

Northern Ireland Invests 3 million in School Digital Devices 

Northern Ireland's Education Minister, Paul Givan, has announced a significant investment of 3 million in digital devices for schools. This initiative will see approximately 8,500 new devices distributed to post-primary schools, replacing outdated computers. The investment is part of the broader Education Information Solutions (EdIS) programme, which aims to modernise digital infrastructure in schools with a total investment of 750 million over the next decade. Givan emphasised the importance of access to quality technology for enhancing learning and teaching experiences. This move is expected to provide students with up-to-date tools, thereby improving educational outcomes across the region.

Future of AI Regulation 

UK Government Considers AI Legislation for Advanced Models 

The UK government is contemplating new AI legislation targeting the most advanced AI models. Currently, AI regulation relies on non-binding principles enforced by existing regulators. However, both the Conservative government and Labour's shadow cabinet have shown support for binding measures. The government’s recent White Paper suggests future legislation may be necessary to address risks associated with powerful AI. Meanwhile, Labour advocates for regulation of companies developing these advanced models. A private members bill on AI regulation, introduced by Lord Chris Holmes, may also be resubmitted in the next parliamentary session. Regardless of the legislative outcome, regulators will continue to play a crucial role in guiding and enforcing AI policies, ensuring that AI development remains safe and innovative.

Public Involvement 

Enhancing AI Governance Through Public Participation 

 Effective AI governance requires legitimate, trustworthy, and accountable public involvement in decision-making processes. The EU AI Act lacks direct public engagement, highlighting the need for policymakers to understand how to involve the public effectively. In the UK, public trust in government data practices is low, emphasising the importance of building trust in AI decision-making. Research shows strong public support for protecting fundamental rights and regulating AI, with nuanced views across socio-demographic groups. Positive steps include the ICO's consideration of youth and citizen councils' input. Policymakers should use validated social research methods and participatory approaches to gather robust evidence of public attitudes. Engaging with public views ensures AI governance aligns with societal values, enhancing legitimacy and accountability.

Digital Health Innovation 

NHS East of England Launches No-Code Digital Hub 

Health Innovation East, in partnership with Cogniss, has launched the Health Innovation East Digital Hub to support digital health innovation in the East of England. This initiative provides a no-code ecosystem enabling users to build apps without technical expertise. The hub includes an innovation sandbox, an innovators forum, and an e-learning platform to develop no-code skills. It also automates regulatory compliance for frameworks like DTAC. The partnership aims to reduce the cost and time required to develop digital health solutions, fostering a community of digital health innovators. This effort is expected to accelerate the creation and implementation of next-generation health technologies, leveraging the experience of clinicians and healthcare entrepreneurs to address pressing health challenges.

Call for Change  

UNISON Urges Next Government to Address Local Government Funding Crisis 

UNISON's general secretary, Christina McAnea, highlights the urgent need for the next government to address the chronic underfunding of local councils. At UNISON's annual conference, 800 local government workers gathered to discuss the devastating impact of austerity, which has led to the loss of 500,000 jobs and the closure of essential services. McAnea calls for stable, multi-year funding to enable effective workforce planning and fair wages. She also criticizes the short-term fix of selling off council assets, which depletes community resources. The union's reports reveal significant cuts to children's and youth services, exacerbating social inequalities. The upcoming election is seen as a crucial opportunity for change, with local government workers hoping their voices will be heard.