EVENTS

Is Generative AI Disrupting Public Services For The Better?

Join us for The Great Public Sector Makeover: AI’s Answer to Systemic Challenges, a LinkedIn Live Broadcast on 25th November 2024, at 3 PM.

🔑 Key Highlights Include:

• Mark Thompson: Addressing why public service reform is essential in the face of systemic challenges.

• Andrew Mindenhall & Darius Toomer (Agilisys): Exploring how AI is delivering real-world solutions for the public sector.

• Kenneth Corrêa: Presenting global success stories of Generative AI in action.

🎯 Why Attend?

• Learn actionable insights from industry experts.

• Get exclusive access to the event recording and materials.

• Engage directly with AI leaders in a live Q&A session.

GOVERNMENT FINANCE

Government's National Insurance Compensation Plan Raises Concerns for Councils

Concerns persist over the government's compensation plan for councils, which may not fully address the rise in direct employment costs due to the Budget. The anticipated increase in employers' national insurance contributions (NICs) has prompted expectations of additional funding announcements for local authorities.

The urgency of the situation is underscored by the potential financial strain on councils, necessitating immediate government action. The lack of confirmed compensation raises questions about the adequacy of support for local governance amidst rising costs.

The formal and precise discourse highlights the need for clarity and assurance from the government, as councils await definitive plans to mitigate the financial impact of increased NICs. The situation demands a cautious yet proactive approach to ensure local authorities are not left vulnerable.

PUBLIC SECTOR FRAUD

Fraudster Turned Advisor Helps Councils Combat Financial Crimes

Alex Wood, a former fraudster, now aids councils in combating fraud, leveraging his past experiences to offer unique insights. His expertise is sought by law firms, insurers, and local councils, including Oxford City Council, where he was a keynote speaker at their Fraud Conference.

Fraud prevention is crucial, with Oxford City Council's Investigation Service saving £7.4m last year, over 30% of its net budget. The team focuses on tenancy fraud, exacerbated by high rents and short-term lets like Airbnb. AI poses a growing threat, enabling more sophisticated fraud, necessitating advanced counter-strategies. The impact of fraud extends beyond finances, affecting residents' access to social housing, highlighting the urgent need for vigilance and innovative solutions

SOCIAL CARE

Government Targets Profiteering in Children's Social Care Overhaul

The UK government is launching a significant overhaul of children's social care to combat profiteering and improve outcomes for children and families. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson announced measures to reduce financial burdens on local authorities and social workers, aiming to end the cycle of crisis in the care system.

Key proposals include:

• financial transparency for care providers.

• empowering Ofsted with new regulatory powers.

• introducing a backstop law to limit profits if voluntary measures fail.

Additional reforms require councils to establish multi-agency child safeguarding teams and introduce a consistent "child identifier" for better information sharing. Care leavers will receive support through the Staying Close programme.

The government emphasises early intervention and family involvement in care decisions, with further details to be released. The Local Government Association and the Association of Directors of Children's Services welcome these changes but highlight ongoing funding and workforce challenges.

PUBLIC SECTOR

Effective Risk Management in Local Government Finance

Rising costs and growing service demands are putting councils under pressure. Smart risk management is now essential—think risk registers, scenario planning, and cross-team collaboration. With strong leadership and proactive strategies, local councils can turn challenges into opportunities for smarter decision-making.