Local Government Newsletter | Volume 46

Plus: 🤖 How Wigan Council is Reimagining EHCPs with GenAI

Local Government Updates

Welcome to Local Government, your weekly newsletter offering insights and strategies to help UK council leaders innovate, engage, and deliver better public services.

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Generative AI in local government must be more than innovation for innovation’s sake—it should drive real, measurable improvements to frontline practice and citizen outcomes.

Agilisys Transform has spent the past year working in partnership with Wigan Council to deploy a Generative AI-powered EHCP and Needs Assessment tool. This tool is reshaping how frontline teams engage with children, families, and adults—enhancing the quality and consistency of key interactions.

Hear from Tom, a Service Manager at Wigan Council, as he shares his experience of co-developing the tool with Agilisys, and what other councils should consider when choosing the right GenAI partner.​

👉Learn more about the impact at Wigan Council here: Transforming Wigan Council’s ASC team with Generative AI – Agilisys Transform

👉To request a free trial of the GenAI platform Note Taker, visit: Note Taker – Agilisys Transform

Press here to hear from Tom☝️

QUANTUM INVESTMENT INITIATIVE

The UK government has announced a significant £121 million investment in quantum technology to combat crime, fraud, and money laundering. This initiative aims to cement the UK's global leadership in the field while promoting economic growth and efficiency across various sectors, including healthcare and energy. By integrating quantum technology, the government hopes to create thousands of high-skill jobs and foster the development of new products and businesses, aligning with its Plan for Change.

This substantial funding, coinciding with World Quantum Day, highlights the potential of quantum technology to transform sectors by detecting fraud patterns and enhancing cybersecurity measures. The investment supports the advancement of the National Quantum Technologies Programme and underscores the commitment to fostering talent and innovation. With backing for initiatives like the National Quantum Computing Centre, this effort is poised to not only tackle pressing societal challenges but also catalyse economic savings and secure the UK's position as a pioneering nation in quantum advancements.

HOSPITAL CONSTRUCTION

Scotland is making significant strides with groundworks for its first digital hospital, University Hospital Monklands, set to open in 2031. This ambitious project in Airdrie involves the extensive movement of one million cubic metres of earth to create a 77-acre platform. As NHS Lanarkshire leaders Martin Hill and Colin Lauder express, the hospital is designed to be at the forefront of healthcare innovation, benefiting all of Lanarkshire, particularly its ageing population.

Led by construction partner Laing O'Rourke, the initiative includes creating access routes and addressing old mine workings to ensure a stable foundation, pending government approval. While noise and dust will be managed, stakeholders emphasize the importance of careful planning and sustainability. The groundwork reflects Scotland's commitment to modernising healthcare infrastructure to meet future demands.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Council Case Study Insights - Agilisys EHCP Tool

Agilisys Transform are hosting an exciting upcoming webinar where you can learn about the fantastic benefits councils are realising from the Agilisys EHCP tool. ​

We know it is always important to hear from fellow councils about the innovative GenAI work they are doing so join us on 1st May to hear from one of the early adopting councils of our Agilisys EHCP tool.​

📅 Wed 1st May, 10-11am

📍Webinar CRISIS

SOCIAL CARE TECHNOLOGY

In a transformative move for adult social care, the UK government is rolling out new training initiatives aimed at equipping care leaders to harness cutting-edge technology. This shift aims to improve patient care, alleviate staff workloads, and enable people to maintain independence within their homes. Emphasising digital adoption, the initiative is part of a broader strategy, outlined by Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting, to create a future-ready social care system.

This initiative aligns with the UK’s 10 Year Health Plan, which focuses on professionalising the social care workforce. Investments in staff training, along with the introduction of a Fair Pay Agreement, are expected to enhance recruitment and retention. Additionally, an independent commission by Baroness Louise Casey will explore the optimisation of workforce support. The measures address the urgent need for skilled care staff, acknowledging their critical role across diverse and intricate care needs, paving the way for effective nationwide reforms in social care.

ECO-PROPERTY INCENTIVES

The UK government provides financial incentives to promote eco-friendly property developments. Key initiatives include grants for energy-efficiency improvements, reduced VAT on energy-saving materials, and green mortgages. These measures support sustainable investments in Harrow, benefiting homeowners, landlords, and investors.

EMPLOYMENT INITIATIVE

Leeds will utilise £2.3 million in funding from the West Yorkshire Combined Authority to bolster the Leeds Employment Hub, aiding 1,400 residents facing unemployment or economic inactivity. The initiative prioritises vulnerable groups, aiming to improve workforce participation, thereby addressing local inequalities. This funding is crucial in supporting Leeds' economically inactive and health-impacted demographics into meaningful employment.

SOCIAL CARE FUNDING

The UK Government has announced a £12.5 million fund to support ethical employment for international migrant care workers in adult social care, addressing unethical practices and sponsor non-compliance. Partnerships will facilitate job placements and collaborate with enforcement bodies like UK Visas and Immigration. Funding is based on local demand and will support workers in finding ethical employment swiftly.

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