The LGA has created a new video series for councils
From council chambers to frontline delivery, artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer just a possibility; it’s becoming part of local government’s present reality.
The LGA’s new ‘AI Unpacked’ video series sets out to make AI easier for local councils to understand. Councils need the right tools and knowledge to make informed decisions about when and how to adopt AI technologies.
Our ‘State of the Sector’ report on AI, published last year, reveals that – while interest in AI is growing among councils – questions remain about governance, ethics and practical implementation.
Most councils report being in exploration phases, rather than full deployment. For example, some are deploying virtual assistants to handle routine enquiries, giving staff more time to tackle complex cases. Others are examining predictive tools that spot patterns in service demand earlier than traditional analysis methods.
Taking a measured approach makes sense. Behind the buzzwords and optimism lies a technology that requires thoughtful implementation.
When applied effectively, AI tools can enhance service delivery and resource management. When implemented poorly, they risk reinforcing existing inequalities or making flawed recommendations that impact vulnerable residents.
Cutting through technical complexity is essential for elected members who oversee strategic direction, senior officers managing implementation, and frontline staff using new tools.
Meaningful oversight requires understanding of core concepts, ensuring AI is used to genuinely improve residents’ lives through better council services.
Recognising this, the LGA has created ‘AI Unpacked’, a new series of animated videos that explain complex AI concepts simply and accessibly. Each video tackles a fundamental aspect of AI relevant to local government operations.
The series explores questions at the heart of responsible AI adoption. What exactly is artificial intelligence? How might councils practically apply these technologies? What role does data quality play? How can we ensure human judgement remains central to decision-making?
Our three-minute animations bring complex AI concepts to life with real-world council examples, to help viewers build their knowledge and feel more confident.
As councils face unprecedented financial pressures alongside increasing service demands, thoughtful technology adoption becomes increasingly vital.
By building shared understanding across political, executive and operational roles, authorities can make informed choices about where AI might genuinely add value – and where human judgement remains irreplaceable.
We hope you enjoy watching the ‘AI Unpacked’ videos, and please share these with your colleagues. They form part of the LGA’s wider sector support offer on digital and technology.
- You can view the LGA’s ‘AI Unpacked’ explainer videos on artificial intelligence on our website. See also our report, ‘State of the sector: artificial intelligence’.