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.
Recognising that equal access to training and development is essential for workforce retention, morale and better outcomes for the service, the Director of Public Health at Leicester City Council worked with the team to develop a coordinated approach to training and skills development for all staff.
Nottingham City Council partnered with focusgov to co-produce 'Plugz', a mobile app designed with care experienced young people to improve access to support, information and opportunities. Since launching in 2024, more than 40 per cent of Nottingham’s care leaver cohort are regularly using the app, with 774 users and a 326 per cent year-on-year increase. Plugz provides a central, accessible tool with real-time updates, direct communication and tailored local content. Increased engagement across features such as events and discounts demonstrates how co-produced digital tools can improve accessibility, strengthen participation and support both young people and practitioners.
The council undertook a complete redesign of its corporate performance management system after the platform it had relied on for over a decade became increasingly costly, unreliable and poorly aligned with staff needs. The redesigned approach aimed to create a system that was user‑centred, transparent, and aligned with the council’s updated Performance Management Framework (PMF).
Stoke-on-Trent City Council, working closely with the NHS Targeted Vaccination Team and locally trusted organisations, engaged with target communities to improve uptake of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine.
Leicester Mammas is a long running, community based breastfeeding and infant feeding support programme operating across Leicester. Established in 2008, the service has evolved into a comprehensive model of wraparound support for families experiencing vulnerability, food insecurity, or barriers to accessing statutory services
Since June 2018, Leicestershire County Council has developed a network of five community fridges located in family hubs across Coalville, South Wigston, Hinckley, Loughborough and Lutterworth. The initiative aims to reduce food waste by redistributing edible surplus food while offering practical support to families and vulnerable adults.
Tower Hamlets has developed a coordinated, multi agency approach to supporting families experiencing financial hardship. By aligning community partnerships, welfare advice, and health based financial pathways, the local authority provides practical, accessible support embedded within everyday family services.