Innovation in local government is about improving the lives of the people in our
communities. Browse through our case studies to see the many innovative programmes councils are involved
in.
The National Literacy Trust (NLT) works to ensure that all families—particularly those living in financial hardship—can engage in meaningful early learning experiences. Their approach emphasises no cost or low cost activities, inclusive practice, and reducing the mental load on parents.
Portsmouth City Council, led by Tackling Poverty Strategic Coordinator Katy Ricks, has adopted a multi layered, partnership driven approach to reducing poverty and strengthening resilience across the city. This case study outlines the council’s key interventions, collaborative structures, and the challenges they are actively working to overcome.
Accessible outdoor programmes run in partnership with voluntary, community, faith and social enterprises can build confidence, strengthen families, enhance early childhood development, and foster a fairer, greener future where people and nature thrive together
Discover how Barnet Council’s Early Years Parenting Hub is transforming families’ lives by breaking cycles of intergenerational trauma through early, specialist support. This powerful video shares real stories and expert insight into how early intervention can give parents and children a genuine chance to heal and thrive.
This inspirational programme is an award-winning research-based family literacy programme developed by the Early Childhood Unit (ECU) at the National Children’s Bureau in partnership with the University of Sheffield.
Peterborough has a strong strategic focus on reducing parental conflict. The dedicated Parental Conflict Lead, based within Children’s Social Care Targeted Support, oversees the local offer, promotes courses with partners, and supports referrals from anyone working with families. Families can also self‑refer, supported by wider marketing.
Derby Family Hubs are passionate about the work they do to promote early literacy for children in Derby city. They embed Bookstart programme resources in the work they do across this area.
The Old Kent Road Family Zone (OKRFZ) is a groundbreaking community-led initiative transforming how local government addresses health inequalities in one of London's most under resourced areas. Facilitated by Surrey Square Primary School (part of the Big Education Trust) and funded by Impact on Urban Health, the zone operates on a radical principle: working 'with' communities rather than 'for' or 'to' them. By placing children, families and residents at the heart of decision-making, OKRFZ is creating sustainable, systemic change that tackles the root causes of poor health and wellbeing.