Councils will be sharing their innovative ideas at the LGA’s annual conference.
The LGA Annual Conference and Exhibition, taking place in Harrogate from 28 to 30 June, marks the return of our Innovation Zone – a lively, social space that has earned its reputation as the ‘ideas hub’ within the wider conference.
This year’s Innovation Zone will feature an engaging programme of sessions set around the theme of ‘resilience and renewal’ – recognising the significant challenges councils have managed in recent years, while shining a light on some of the emerging good practice and innovative ideas being taken forward as councils look to the future.
Our diverse Innovation Zone programme features more than 30 talks by councils and partners from across the country.
Conference delegates will have the opportunity to learn about new and innovative approaches on topics such as adults’ and children’s services, digital and cyber technologies, community wellbeing and health, economic growth, workforce, and equalities, diversity and inclusion, with presentations that bring to life projects and approaches across these and other areas.
All sessions will be creative and interactive, with opportunities for delegates to ask questions and share learning about improving local government services.
Our series of ‘Spotlight on’ talks – a new addition to the programme this year – will aim to inspire and challenge delegates to think differently and engage with big ideas; for example, on climate change.
Across the country, councils are taking urgent action in their local areas, with partners and their communities, to combat the negative impacts of climate change and deliver net-zero carbon by 2050.
Our ‘Spotlight on’ talk on climate change will be presented by a panel of expert speakers from councils and partners, who have lessons to share about the innovative actions they are taking to reach their local carbon-reduction targets and adapt to, and mitigate, the effects of climate change.
The panel will discuss: a local climate adaptation tool being developed by the University of Exeter and local organisations, which helps decision-makers understand the research and recommends adaptation actions; greater collaboration between councils and businesses; and community-led energy planning.
The ‘Spotlight on’ series will include talks on: partnerships as a vehicle for place leadership; children’s services and improving the life chances for children living in deprived areas; cyber improvement; and mental health in the workplace.
With thanks to Innovation Zone sponsor Newton, the ‘Spotlight on’ series will also feature a special presentation by renowned speaker – and former gang leader turned activist and poet – Karl Lokko, who will talk about his journey to activism and uniting communities.
Newton will also be providing professionally brewed coffee, giving delegates a chance to recharge!
You can view the Innovation Zone programme online and on the free LGA conference app, which can be downloaded from the Apple App Store and Google Play by searching for ‘LGA Events’.
If you have any questions about the Innovation Zone, please email [email protected].
I look forward to seeing you in the zone at Harrogate!