MODERNISING TECHNOLOGY

UK Spending Review Will Upgrade Legacy Technology in Government, says Minister

The UK government's imminent Spending Review promises a critical revamp of antiquated IT systems within the public sector. With strategic investments channelled into cybersecurity, cloud computing, and AI, the initiative stands to transform departmental productivity and operational efficacy. Minister Patrick Vallance confirmed that this aligns with the AI Opportunities Action Plan and a digital government blueprint. The Review's two-phase approach, beginning with the Autumn 2024 outline, prioritises sophisticated public service technology to elevate citizen interactions.

Simultaneously, the Government Digital Service (GDS) drives forward by integrating open banking within GOV.UK Pay, demonstrating a commitment to digital evolution. This move forms part of a sweeping government strategy aimed at optimizing service delivery, illustrated by future innovations like the GOV.UK wallet. These technological advancements underscore a resolute direction towards reducing bureaucratic inefficiencies and enhancing public engagement. For those in local government, these developments hinge on robust execution and strategic application to harness potential benefits while navigating constraints inherent in policy and infrastructure.

SEND FUNDING CHALLENGES

SEND Funding Cuts Threaten UK Councils with Financial Collapse by 2026

The looming financial crisis in UK councils over SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) funding is now critical. With the impending expiration of the "statutory override" in March 2026, councils are projected to face severe financial distress, unable to balance budgets from 2026 to 2029. This crisis is exacerbated by a surging demand for SEND support, with EHCPs (Education, Health and Care Plans) increasing by 140% from 2014. The resultant high needs deficit is forecasted to reach £5 billion, demanding an urgent governmental intervention.

The Local Government Association (LGA) is calling for decisive actions in the upcoming Spending Review to erase existing deficits and enhance inclusion in mainstream educational settings. Cllr Arooj Shah stresses the risk to council's financial health and essential SEND services. Meanwhile, Kerry Booth from the Rural Services Network highlights the disproportionate challenge to rural services and advocates for a sustainable funding model. Without comprehensive reform, the quality and availability of critical services for vulnerable communities remain in jeopardy, necessitating immediate and effective governmental response.

URBAN DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY

New Manchester Digital Campus Secures Funding, Boosting Local Government Tech Initiatives

The Manchester Digital Campus has been approved, marking a significant stride in cementing the city’s technological legacy. Positioned on the former Central Retail Park in Ancoats, this initiative envisages the presence of around 7,000 civil service digital roles within two new office buildings. Endorsed by Manchester City Council's Planning and Highways Committee, the government’s plan aligns with the existing tech talent pool, fostering sector growth and strategic urban transformation. With 83,000 square metres designated for office use and retail space subtly integrated, the total project value is projected to approach £1 billion, underpinning funding imperatives and urban policy considerations.

“Share for Better Care Week” is important for health and social care because it directly addresses some of the key challenges facing the sector today, such as communication gaps, fragmented care, and the need for a more holistic, patient-centred approach.​

Feedback is invaluable, helping us to identify areas where services can be improved. However, too often, not everyone’s voice is heard. In my own social care experience, I have observed changes being made without staff or resident involvement in the decision-making process. It becomes clear that those changes often do not align with the practical needs of the care environment, affecting both staff morale and our ability to effectively support residents.​

While Agilisys Transform continues to support Adult Social Care through Generative AI, it is vital to ensure that feedback is collected thoroughly to inform improvements. By capturing the voices of both social care workers and the residents they support, we can enable more helpful, tailored care and support. We can ensure that the technology Agilisys Transform develops is not only cutting-edge but also practical and user-friendly.​

We want to understand their concerns, opportunities, and how AI could enhance their work. This feedback will help shape the future of AI in the sector, ensuring it’s implemented in a way that supports staff and improves services. Stay tuned to share your insights!

 COUNCIL REORGANISATION

Council Budget Agreed Without Reorganisation Costs

GOVERNMENT FUNDS ALLOCATION

UK Councils Secure £97m Funding Boost to Combat Financial Challenges

The UK government's £97 million allocation to four South East councils aims to bridge budget gaps, with £74.6 million directed towards Woking's debt management. Eastbourne criticises this as a "short-term fix," underscoring the need for lasting fiscal strategies. The funding's approval depends on upcoming council deliberations, highlighting the need for strategic foresight.

INFRASTRUCTURE TECHNOLOGY ADVANCEMENTS

Hertfordshire County Council Using AI to Detect Potholes

 AWARDS

It’s Awards Season 🏆- not just in Hollywood, but at Agilisys too. 🏆​​

While A-listers are polishing their acceptance speeches, the spotlight is on the real stars: local authorities like Wigan Council, who are using AI to transform services for their residents. 🎉​​

Agilisys has been nominated for an iNetwork award in the Transforming and Innovating Public Services category. The recognition highlights how the team are transforming public services with Generative AI, freeing frontline teams from admin so they can focus on real impact.​​

They recall: a huge shoutout goes to the incredible team at Wigan Council for their partnership, vision, and commitment to being at the forefront of Generative AI in local government. Together, we are proving what is possible when innovation meets purpose.​​

With the awards ceremony taking place tomorrow, Agilisys is looking forward to celebrating ground-breaking advancements in public services and continuing to drive AI-powered transformation.This is just the beginning! 🔥​

Learn more here 🔗

LOCAL GOVERNANCE

Is Council Tax Increase Fuelling the National Rise of Reform UK?

Rising council tax rates, coupled with declining local services, may be contributing to the increasing support for Reform UK in regions like East Anglia. Residents facing higher taxes and reduced services express frustration, which Reform UK leverages by positioning itself as a voice for the disillusioned electorate. The current council tax system, based on outdated property valuations from 1991, disproportionately affects lower-income households, intensifying calls for reform. Without addressing these systemic issues, mainstream political parties risk ceding ground to Reform UK, which capitalizes on public dissatisfaction with the status quo.

YOUR FEEDBACK MATTERS 🗳️