Live Event

The Great Public Sector Makeover: AI’s Answer to Systemic Challenges

The UK’s public sector is under increasing pressure to modernise and deliver better societal outcomes.

In this exclusive session, an expert panel hosted in partnership with Agilisys, will explore how AI can address deep-rooted challenges and redefine the future of public service delivery. Agilisys, a leader in digital transformation for the UK public sector, brings together decades of experience in driving technological innovation to help organisations adapt and thrive.

The session will feature insights from:

• Andrew Mindenhall, CEO of Agilisys

• Mark Thompson, Professor in Digital Economy at the University of Exeter

• Darius Toomer, Head of Agilisys Transform

• Kenneth Corrêa, Author of Cognitive Organisations

Save the date:
🗓️ Date: 25th November 2024 (Monday)
⏰ Time: 3:00 PM BST
👉 Register here

Health Infrastructure

Leeds Council Urges Government to Approve New Hospital Plans

Leeds City Council supports the Leeds Teaching Hospital Trust's plans for a new children's hospital, a centralised maternity centre, and an adult hospital. The project promises 4,000 jobs, 1,000 homes, and £13 billion in economic benefits, enhancing Leeds' status in health research and innovation. Councillor Fiona Venner emphasises the project's role in addressing health inequalities and improving outcomes.

The existing Leeds General Infirmary requires urgent modernisation. The Hospitals of the Future project, part of the Government's New Hospitals Programme since 2019, faces delays. Approval and acceleration in the upcoming budget could save £300 million. The Leeds programme, with Investment Zone Status, is crucial for the Leeds Innovation Village, promising significant economic and infrastructural benefits. The Executive Board urges Government action to expedite the programme.

Social Work Policy

Councils Receive Funding for Adult Social Work Apprenticeships Amid Cuts

The Department of Health and Social Care allocated £7.7 million to 74 out of 153 local authorities in March 2024 to recruit adult social work apprentices. This funding aimed to address a 10.5% vacancy rate in adult services roles as of September 2023. However, a planned additional £4 million for 2024-25 was cancelled by the incoming Labour government to save public funds.

Councils could use up to £30,000 per apprentice for costs like supervision and programme management, but not for salaries or training. Payments ranged from £30,000 to £300,000, with county councils receiving the most. Councils must ensure apprentices are employed for the duration of their degree and report on fund usage to the DHSC.

Social Work

Disability Rates Among Care Leavers Underreported by Councils, Research Reveals

Research by Coram Voice reveals that the self-reported disability rate among care leavers is double that recorded by councils. Disparities exist between local authorities, with recorded rates ranging significantly. The lack of comprehensive data hinders effective support planning and monitoring for disabled care leavers.

Disabled care leavers report poorer outcomes compared to their non-disabled peers, including feelings of loneliness and financial difficulties. Practitioners acknowledge gaps in data and knowledge, impacting service delivery. Coram Voice recommends improved data collection, training for professionals, and advocacy access for disabled young people.

The charity urges the Department for Education to publish existing disability data and calls for further research to enhance understanding and support for disabled care-experienced individuals.

Public Health

Local Governments' Crucial Role in Inclusion Health Initiatives

Local governments are crucial in addressing health inequalities among socially excluded groups, such as the homeless and substance-dependent individuals. The report highlights the stark disparities in life expectancy, with some groups living 20 years less than the general population. Local councils are implementing innovative strategies, including targeted outreach and co-designed services, to bridge these gaps. However, additional support from central government is essential to sustain these efforts.

Key initiatives include:

• Developing integrated services for inclusion health.

• Engaging with communities to understand their needs.

• Collaborating with NHS and voluntary sectors to improve access and outcomes.

• Implementing the Core20PLUS5 framework to reduce healthcare inequalities.

These efforts aim to create healthier, more equitable communities across England.