Ignite Lab

Just a word or two on the exciting challenges we are getting involved with in the Local Authority Sector.  While the jobs are not huge the challenges certainly are. 

• At one authority we are helping the council understand why their “Social Cohesion” scores are going backwards. This will involve workshops in schools and in the community.  
• We will be training a Local Authority senior team in innovation, but the challenge we will be using to do this is “Motivating the Estate” and coming up with creative ideas for dealing with the poverty of aspiration and opportunity experienced by NEETS living on a deprived council estate. 
• At another we are dealing with “Social Inequality” and helping shape the themes that will be addressed in the corporate plan. 
• We are helping one Local Authority with “Economic Prosperity and Adult Skills” and helping develop the key themes that will help address an economically depressed borough with high levels of social problems.

These are really exciting challenges and ones that will help us demonstrate that the approach works in the most challenging of circumstances.

Kent County Council ran a year of innovation in 07-08. They have published 3 catalogues of innovation, i.e. innovative initiatives. They have also created three innovation films showcasing their innovation in different areas.

One of their most intriguing innovations is Activmobs, where small groups of residents get some support to carry out regular physical activity in less formal settngs than, e.g. gym classes. There are now 30 mobs ranging from working on allotments to singing. May make a good insight around community empowerment and/or co-creation.

I came across a great example of a strategic plan that has been written for a broad and varied audience, including the public / the community. Its Norfolk’s Children and Young People’s Plan.

There is a clear and consistent structure around outcomes and priorities. It paints a picture of ‘look and feel’ in the future – e.g. ‘we want children to be excited, curious, engaged and ready for school’. It uses colour, language and symbols well. Its brought to life with examples of innovative practice and case studies.