TECHNOLOGY IN LOCAL COUNCIL OPERATIONS

Bringing Generative AI to Dundee: How QuickAction is Shaping the Future of Local Council Operations​

Agilisys Transform recently spent a day with Dundee Council showcasing QuickAction, the Generative AI platform designed to streamline local council operations. Engaging with teams from across the council, including customer services, social care, HR, legal, and IT, Agilisys Transform demonstrated how AI can reduce administrative workload and free up staff for more valuable work. Through live demonstrations, Dundee Council explored QuickAction’s capabilities in action—from summarising case notes to automating responses and improving service efficiency. Each team had the chance to see how AI could complement their specific processes, sparking discussions on how Dundee Council could integrate Generative AI into their own operations.​

Beyond just showcasing the technology, the session encouraged Dundee’s staff to think about their own AI journey - what transformation could look like for them and what challenges they might need to navigate. The Agilisys team helped different council teams identify where AI could make the biggest impact, whether in speeding up internal processes, enhancing service quality, or reducing pressure on frontline teams.​

If your council is exploring how Generative AI can enhance operations, Agilisys is here to help. They are experts in working with local authorities to identify where AI can have the biggest impact and selecting the right tools to support your teams. From hands-on demonstrations to in-depth discussions, they bring AI to your staff, helping you understand its potential, navigate challenges, and build a roadmap for adoption. Whether you are looking to improve efficiency, reduce administrative burdens, or enhance service quality, they partner with you every step of the way.

Get in contact to see how Agilisys can deliver these workshops at your council!

💬 OUR INSIGHT

Recent fiscal adjustments are reshaping the landscape of adult social care funding, with welfare savings cuts triggering significant ripple effects. Government reports and data highlight that reductions in disability and incapacity benefits are not just budget numbers—they are impacting local service delivery.

Local authorities, facing rising caseloads, may need to reallocate funds from social care to balance budgets. Case studies show that even minor cuts, such as those affecting Personal Independence Payment (PIP), could force difficult decisions around daily support and care staffing.

Key steps for care leaders include:

• Reviewing local budgets and preparing contingency plans

• Investing in efficiency through digital tools

• Collaborating closely with policy makers

• Monitoring trends to plan proactively

While fiscal tightening aims to meet borrowing rules, the trade-off may be a weakened foundation for critical adult care services. Decision makers must act now to preserve service quality and protect those who depend on these essential supports.

HEALTHCARE INNOVATION

Cera Introduces Robots to Strengthen Elderly Care Home Initiatives

Cera Care's innovative partnership with North Northamptonshire council introduces domestic robots into the homes of the elderly and vulnerable, marking a shift in care delivery through technology integration. These robots play a pivotal role in preventive support, offering reminders for medication, nutrition, and hydration, while also enabling seamless interaction with family and carers. Their capability to flag extended periods of patient unresponsiveness underscores their potential in enhancing monitoring and response strategies.

This trial exemplifies the necessity of incorporating advanced technology into the healthcare framework, a point emphasised by Cera's CEO, Ben Maruthappu. The initiative aligns with the growing imperative for the adult social care sector to balance human and technological resources effectively. With an unspecified yet substantial deployment of robots, this trial addresses the dual challenges of scalability and care efficiency, providing a forward-thinking model for policy makers and industry leaders to consider as part of a broader strategy to meet the sector's evolving demands.

HEALTH STRATEGY SHIFT

Reforming Social Care is Essential for NHS Sustainability and Patient Well-being

The vital transition at NHS England, marked by Dr. Penny Dash as Chair and Sir James Mackey as Chief Executive, presents a unique opportunity to reshape the landscape of both health and social care. It is acknowledged that the fiscal sustainability and operational efficacy of NHS cannot be achieved without integrating robust social care services. As highlighted by Lord Darzi, an interdependent and holistic approach is critical to enhance patient care and system efficiency. Emphasising the importance of social care, its role in reducing hospital discharge delays and preventing unnecessary admissions becomes a cornerstone, alongside improving individuals' quality of life.

Current NHS England data reveals an alarming figure: 13,767 hospital beds are occupied daily by patients who are medically fit for discharge. This data underscores the urgent need to address the intertwined challenges faced by health and social care systems. The harmonisation of these sectors is not merely advantageous; it is imperative for alleviating pressure on high-acuity services. The new leadership must, therefore, concentrate on fostering an integrated strategy prioritising seamless care transitions, subsequently ensuring the NHS's long-term sustainability while significantly enhancing service quality and operational efficiency.

ADULT CARE STRATEGY

Reform Pressed for Urgent Resolution to Social Care System Challenges

SUICIDE PREVENTION

New Strategy Allocates 96,000 in Grants to Combat Suicide and Self-Harm

Nottinghamshire's new Self Harm and Suicide Prevention Strategy aims to promote mental wellbeing and reduce suicide rates. Supported by a £96,000 grant, community groups will provide crucial support. The strategy, shaped by lived experiences, emphasises hope, skilled workforce development, and timely access to effective crisis support services.

SOCIAL CARE INVESTMENT

Significant £2.6m Boost Gears up for Westminster's Adult Social Care Reform

SOCIAL CARE

Social Care Reform Requires Urgent Comprehensive and Immediate Solutions

Addressing the pressing need for reform in adult social care, tackling issues such as the ageing population and funding challenges is imperative. The system's current inefficiencies signal an urgent call to action, demanding strategic reforms. Prioritising inclusivity will ensure equitable access, but collaboration across governmental and private sectors is vital for crafting and executing robust policies.

Financial sustainability stands at the forefront of reform strategies. Innovative funding models must be explored to withstand the escalating pressure on resources. Reevaluating existing funding and embracing sustainable financial frameworks offer viable solutions. Moreover, technological integration and data utilisation have the potential to optimise service delivery, yet these advances must protect privacy while boosting efficiency. In navigating these complex challenges, the balance between financial viability and delivering comprehensive, compassionate care is crucial in effective reform.

SOCIAL CARE REFORM

Escalating Financial Pressures Endanger Vital Charity Contributions to Adult Social Care

Rising wage costs are threatening the ability of charities to support health and social care services. Increased staffing expenses, driven by inflation and higher minimum wages, are placing financial strain on nonprofit organizations. Many charities are being forced to reduce services or limit outreach due to budget pressures. This could impact vulnerable communities that rely on these services, including elderly and disabled individuals. Charities are calling for increased government support and more sustainable funding models to address these financial challenges.

PUBLIC SECTOR FINANCING

Cambridgeshire Council Faces Urgent Financial Oversight Challenges in Debt Write-Offs

YOUR FEEDBACK MATTERS 🗳️