A forthcoming UKA Live discussion will look at the megatrends and key technology and data elements affecting local authorities in the UK
It is widely acknowledged that local government in the UK is facing some serious challenges, and an effort is underway to establish how it can prepare to deal with the pressures up to 2032.
Civica has explored The Future of Local Government in an initiative with the Society of Local Authority Chief Executives (Solace), to gather a wide range of perspectives and share a stronger understanding of the nature of change and how technology and data can play a major role in the response.
A series of workshops with current and aspiring leaders has placed a focus on several megatrends affecting the public sector:
- the changing workforce, with the need for more flexibility and new skills;
- emerging technologies and innovation, and how well equipped councils are to harness the potential;
- participation and community, which has to be at the heart of local government;
- data and personalisation to transform public services;
- placemaking, addressing issues locally to improve the quality of life for communities;
- and changes in public expectations and population.
The initiative has already produced insights in three key areas: data overload and the challenge of personalsing services; the need for community participation in decision making; and whether councils have the time and skills to keep up with tech.
“It’s really important to hold an event looking to the future, especially at a time of great economic, societal and environmental uncertainty,” said David Paine, senior policy officer at Solace. “It helps to do some blue sky thinking with chief executives and rising stars and springboard us to think through what this means for the country and local government.”
All this will provide the focus of a UKA Live discussion to take place on Wednesday 20 March, bringing together a group of key figures to share their own insights on the outlook. The event will play a part in strengthening the all round understanding of the challenges and feed into the development of technology that will help local authorities to build a successful response.
You can find more information and register here to watch the discussion, and contribute with your own comments and questions, as it takes place.
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