Local councils are turning more to AI and changing technology to continue transforming public services and living standards across the country
These changes align with the government’s ‘plan for change’ and unlock £45 billion in efficiency savings through technology.
AI can improve services from healthcare to social care; it has already started to reshape how councils engage and support their residents.
How AI is being used in local councils to transforming public services
The London Borough of Sutton is now using AI to support vulnerable residents by integrating AI-enabled sensors into everyday household items like fridges and kettles to monitor their routines.
These sensors can track small changes and daily habits that could be signs of declining health or well-being, such as skipping meals or missing cups of tea.
When these AI technologies detect irregular habits, they can send alerts to family or caregivers, urging them to check up on them. By doing this, AI can support early interventions, reducing the likelihood of a fall or other medical emergencies.
Supporting vulnerable people’s independence
This system allows vulnerable people to maintain their independence and ensure they are safe when on their own.
In the past, research has suggested that people usually live longer, healthier lives when they can stay in their own homes where they can feel comfortable.
Councils like Sutton are using this technology to improve residents’ quality of life and reduce the pressure on the overburdened social care system, which is struggling to meet growing demands.
Streamlining more routine local services
Not only is AI being used for healthcare, but it’s also being used for local services. For example, West Berkshire Council has developed an AI system to handle requests for larger waste bins efficiently.
Residents can apply online, and AI will quickly process the data, such as the number of children in the household or the volume of waste generated, to determine eligibility.
This allows families with young children to get the resources they need more quickly. If an application is denied, the systems allow for an easy appeal process to ensure everything is done fairly.
Social care qualifications
AI is also being integrated into social care qualifications in Wales. Chatbots are now being used to assist individuals in applying and navigating the application process.
This can save time for applicants and officials so that people can quickly move forward in securing the training they need to work in the care sector.
Algorithmic tools are also being used to help councils predict adult care costs more accurately, allowing for better budget management and more efficient use of resources.
Improving services through AI
These changes show that AI isn’t there to replace people’s jobs but instead to improve services.
By using AI to predict and prevent problems before they escalate, councils can reduce costs in the long run, even as they improve service quality.
The success of places such as Sutton and West Berkshire shows the potential of AI in transforming public services.
As the UK government tries to improve its plans for efficiency, these recent changes will likely serve as a good example for other councils across the country.
The Department for Science, Innovation, and Technology (DSIT) is working to share these successful AI applications across the public sector, ensuring that all councils have access to the tools they need to improve services and boost productivity.
For the elderly, vulnerable individuals, or those with complex care needs, AI has the potential to help them live safely and independently in their homes for a longer duration. As councils adopt these technologies, the quality of life for these individuals will improve, and the pressure on overburdened services will be alleviated. This shift paves the way for a more efficient and supportive public service system overall.
