Exploring the opportunities of LGR
More than 100 English councils face the biggest change in a generation.
The unitaries that emerge will be responsible for larger, more diverse areas and bigger populations, making efficient delivery vital to great services and sustainable finances.
As a technology partner working with most larger authorities – and by several new unitaries – we bring a unique perspective and broad experience that can help councils to plan effectively, move carefully and deliver with care.
As well as bringing our experts together, we want others to join us and explore key goals the art of the possible. Join our LGR community and help shape the future.
More than 100 English councils face the biggest change in a generation.
The unitaries that emerge will be responsible for larger, more diverse areas and bigger populations, making efficient delivery vital to great services and sustainable finances.
As a technology partner working with most larger authorities – and by several new unitaries – we bring a unique perspective and broad experience that can help councils to plan effectively, move carefully and deliver with care.
As well as bringing our experts together, we want others to join us and explore key goals the art of the possible. Join our LGR community and help shape the future.
“This is a generational opportunity. It’s a chance to look again at ways of working that feel so natural but are ageing fast.”
ROGER BIRKINSHAW, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR FOR GOVERNMENT & HOUSING, NEC SOFTWARE SOLUTIONS
Partnering merging councils and supporting unitaries
Goal 1 - Ensure critical services work for everyone
Fast and fair access to services is essential, but the size of the authorities will see teams delivering for more people across more diverse communities. Through inclusive design, smart software and flexible support, it’s possible to create smooth journeys that give users exactly what they need.
Goal 2 - Making the shift to prevention possible
The careful introduction of AI and machine learning is already helping local authorities to refocus on prevention. Tools that predict risk, prioritise resources and enable fast action will be needed to maximise council revenue, sustain tenancies and create safer communities. Future reorganisations in policing should improve multi-agency prevention too, creating opportunities for youth offending services.
Goal 3 - Operating safely and efficiently
Sustaining compliant, resilient and cybersecure services is a top priority, but budgets will likely remain limited. Combining solid foundational platforms that enable automation – particularly document management and redaction – with the right cloud computing power at the right cost will be key to success.
Goal 4 - Creating flexibility for the future
Even when councils merge and LGR is complete, further change is inevitable. Technology evolves, new regulations arrive and policy goals shift, requiring adjustments to eligibility and access. The new, larger unitaries will need to find ways to manage the unexpected, perhaps through flexible services or just a simple training refresher.
