THIS WEEK’S RADAR🎯

• LGA Drinks Reception — Last Spots Left: Join UK GovTech x Agilisys for an evening on GenAI in Children’s and Adult Services — connect with peers shaping digital transformation.

• Fairer Funding Reform: New proposals aim to rebalance council funding, boosting long-term stability for adult social care.

• Focus on Prevention: Planned reorganisation backs district councils to lead more local, community-driven care models.

• Social Work Pay Win: Brighton resolves pay dispute with £4K boost for new adult social workers — a move to improve retention.

• Sefton Praised by CQC: High marks for compassionate care and mental health support — with calls to improve respite access.

LGA EVENT

Last Few Spots To Our Drinks Reception At The LGA

Just under a week to go until the LGA Conference - and we are excited to be co-hosting a special evening of drinks, networking, and discussion on how councils are putting citizens at the heart of GenAI transformation.​

Join us for UK GovTech x Agilisys: Centering Citizens at the Heart of GenAI Transformation, taking place on Wednesday 2nd July from 6:15pm to 7:30pm at Clockwise Liverpool.​

If you are a leader in Children’s or Adult Services exploring how technology can support your teams - or if you are simply keen to hear what is working for your peers across local government - this is the event for you. Expect an informal and insightful evening with council leaders, digital experts, and transformation champions all sharing ideas and inspiration.

LOCAL GOVERNANCE REFORM

Fairer Funding For Councils Across The Country In Major Reform

The proposed overhaul of the council funding system aims to rectify longstanding inefficiencies by introducing place-based formulas targeting regions in need, thus replacing outdated methodologies. Streamlining grants and implementing multi-year financial settlements are steps anticipated to bolster council efficiency and public service delivery. With an urgent emphasis on equity, these reforms seek to address imbalances, allowing deprived areas to benefit from increased funds, enhancing services like social care and education.

The proposed changes, aligned with the Plan for Change, significantly reduce administrative burdens and provide councils with the financial stability needed for long-term planning. This strategic initiative derives from an understanding of the unique demands on local services due to demographics and deprivation. Without resorting to prior fragmented interventions, this reform prioritises sustaining local economies, ultimately paving the path for greater local development and improved living standards.

SOCIAL CARE REORGANISATION

Adult Social Care Reorganisation Offers an Opportunity to Focus on Prevention

The proposed reorganisation of social care services in English local government aims to decentralise adult social care departments, emphasising prevention strategies and local community engagement as essential elements. District councils, with their strong community ties and focus on prevention, are seen as crucial to this reform, potentially improving care systems amidst rising demand and budget constraints. It highlights that the restructuring offers an opportunity to realign services to better reflect community needs without necessarily increasing scale.

LABOUR NEGOTIATION OUTCOME

Social Work Pay Dispute Resolved With Salary Boost For Newly Qualified Staff

A pay dispute among adult social workers in Brighton & Hove was resolved with a £4,000 salary increase for newly qualified staff and more growth opportunities. This action addressed inequality with children's services and supports social worker retention, crucial for aiding vulnerable populations. The resolution highlights the importance of ongoing investment in workforce development.

ADULT CARE INSPECTION

Sefton Council Praised for Compassionate Adult Social Care Approach

Sefton Council received high marks from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) for its compassionate Adult Social Care service, particularly in mental health recovery and promoting independence. However, issues regarding respite placement accessibility and contact centre communication were noted, urging immediate improvements for service efficiency and caregiver relief. The council's collaboration with partners and ongoing improvement plans are aimed at addressing these concerns effectively.