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 Community Wellness Outreach (CWO) project in Reading (funded by the Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Berkshire West ICB) was set up to pilot outreach activities to support the reduction in health inequalities in the most vulnerable communities, with a core focus on providing an NHS heath check and advice around improving health and wellbeing.
Supported by the ADASS/Newton Accelerate programme (a clear methodology of assess, design, implement and sustain), the current service was reviewed using service data, case reviews, time and motion studies and staff/individual user feedback.
Norfolk County Council (NCC) and its partners wanted to identify people at risk of a fall and offer them preventative support to increase independence and reduce demand for adult social care and health.
City Health Care Partnership CIC, East Riding of Yorkshire Council, VSE Collaborative Forum, Hull City Council, Humber and North Yorkshire Health and Care Partnership, Hull University Teaching Hospitals, working with OPTICA and The PSC.
In the London Borough of Brent, the Principal Occupational Therapist is leading the development of a prevention strategy by applying occupational therapy's strengths-based, population-focused approach to public health, aiming to reduce care needs and address health inequalities through system-wide collaboration and data-driven planning.
Leeds City Council’s Housing Occupational Therapy Team plays a vital role in matching residents with accessible homes, influencing inclusive housing design, and recycling adaptations, while supporting the city’s diverse and changing population to live well and independently.
Hertfordshire County Council transformed its reablement services by expanding occupational therapy roles into a dedicated Enablement Team, resulting in improved outcomes, integrated care, and significant cost savings, through evidence-led leadership and a strong focus on prevention and enablement.
South Gloucestershire Council’s Assistive Technology (AT) service, led by occupational therapists and technicians, successfully transformed adult social care by integrating personalised, cost-effective tech solutions, enabling independent living, and embedding technology into mainstream care planning and practice.
Childhood growth is an important indicator of a child’s overall health. Higher rates of childhood stunting are associated with greater socioeconomic deprivation and an increased risk of chronic health problems. A public health registrar at Sefton Borough Council has been exploring how better understanding of the causes of childhood stunting could help reduce child health inequalities.
‘Family Matters’ is a multi-agency programme in Stoke-on-Trent that gives families access to the advice, tips and opportunities they need to thrive. It is a key part of the city council’s commitment to early support – working with partners, including the voluntary and community sector, to ensure that children have the best start in life.