Innovation
Doing things differently
In the face of never-ending pressures councils are continuing to seek out ways to do things differently. But beneath the inevitable positivity is there a negative side to differentiation which could weaken prospects for councils? Paul Marinko reports
Reform author pushes back on devo criticisms
The author of a report that proposed devolving NHS England’s £168bn budget and most services to local government has hit back at criticisms.
Embracing innovation in leadership recruitment
Ben Parsonage offers some practical strategies for identifying leaders who can help promote innovation and creativity across your organisation.
Ready for a bright new dawn?
Rachel Reeves’ Mais lecture represented a clear shift away from New Labour towards an active state, a muscular industrial strategy and ambitious regional policy, say Mike Emmerich and Ben Lucas.
Choice of a new generation
Now is a pivotal moment for councils to start developing strategies to engage with Generation Z, and in doing so start to rethink the future of local government, says Victoria Evans.
Books and beyond
Head of libraries at GLL Rebecca Gediking describes how innovation and adaptation are at the heart of a successful, modern library service.
Harnessing 5G’s transformative potential for future-ready digital infrastructures
Cllr Neil Fawcett sets out why Oxfordshire CC jumped at the chance to lead the joint funding bid for the 5G IR (5G Innovation Regions) programme, for the benefit of local government and beyond.
Taking a risk-based approach to the switch to digital
Robert Turnbull of PA Consulting explains why a risk-based approach is key in the UK’s transition to a digital telephone system.
Rocket-booster for the UK’s economy
Newcastle, ‘backbone of the UK economy’, is powered by unique natural assets and a drive to innovate that is fundamental to the future prospects of the UK and the wider world. Cllr Nick Kemp explains.
Stockton’s winning digital formula
Stockton BC scooped the digital transformation award at The MJ Awards for its innovative approach to creating quality education, health and care plans. Cllr Lisa Evans reflects on the achievement.
Attracting the next generation of local government stars
Luke Judd of Starfish Search reflects on a discussion they had with the ‘rising stars’ of local government as part of their Top Talent series run in conjunction with The MJ.
Hollowed out local government sets off a downward spiral
'It is time to move the debate on from platitudes and tinkering with year-to-year budgets to the wholesale reform of the financial powers available to local government', says Mo Baines.
Is this the end of innovation?
Is there a tendency among council members to play it safe and avoid risks? Norse Group and The MJ brought together chief executives and senior managers from across local government to ask if innovation is now a thing of the past for councils. Paul Marinko reports.
It’s crucial to preserve the future of local autonomy
Leader of South Cambridgeshire DC Cllr Bridget Smith sets out why the UK Government should let local councils decide on the four-day week.
Government ‘stands ready to speak’ to any council on funding
Local government minister Simon Hoare says the provisional Local Government Finance Settlement delivers ‘an above inflation increase’ and shows the Government’s commitment to supporting councils.
Will Oflog stifle innovation?
Chief executive officer of Norse Group Justin Galliford considers the impact the new watchdog will have on local government.
Innovation keeps the wheels on social care
With no prospects of long-term funding solutions, social care teams are having to focus on creative initiatives and partnership working – and the Autumn Statement has added to the pressure. Paul Marinko reports.
Climate action’s delicate high-wire act
Jonathan Stephenson says reaching net zero is a monumental task that demands unity - a coming together of local authorities, the private sector, universities, and communities.
How government can support the retention of essential service delivery
Senior consultant at CIPFA Penna Karima Dakhama looks at how local authorities through innovation can ensure the retention of essential service delivery across the UK.
Council told to focus on 'getting basics right'
South Holland DC should focus on ‘getting the basics right’ before pushing ahead with more innovative improvement proposals, sector peers have reported.