Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping local government across England, with nearly nine in ten of the country’s largest councils now deploying AI, according to a recent County Councils Network (CCN) study. At the forefront are London boroughs like Newham and Camden, pioneering innovative solutions that are setting new standards for public sector services. Yet, as these boroughs lead the way, many councils elsewhere face mounting obstacles, staff shortages and shrinking budgets have led to workforce reductions of up to 33% in some county areas since 2012.

London’s Innovation Engine

More than three-quarters of councils now use AI in adult social care, with Sutton Council standing out. Its AI sensors detected over 1,800 falls last year, automatically alerting emergency services and helping vulnerable residents live independently for longer. These sensors monitor daily routines and flag potential issues, demonstrating how AI can deliver tangible benefits in public health and safety.

Camden Council, in partnership with Google DeepMind, has developed an AI Campus to address the technology skills gap. Unlike typical tech initiatives, this programme prioritises students from underrepresented groups, including those eligible for free school meals. The two-year pilot offers mentoring, industry expertise, and real-world projects that connect AI to diverse fields, aiming to inspire and educate Camden’s sixth form students.

“Camden will be at the forefront of the AI revolution – and our residents will be driving this forward and benefitting from its unprecedented and transformative opportunities,” explains Councillor Richard Olszewski, Leader of Camden Council.

Just eight miles east, Newham Council has quickly become a notable example of AI adoption after launching its “Centre for AI in the Public Sector” at the 2024 DigiGov Expo. The centre’s predictive models now inform housing allocations and social care interventions, supporting the government’s goal of boosting public sector productivity. The initiative also emphasises ethical AI governance and the development of future skills within the public sector and local community.

To discuss progress, challenges, and safeguards for AI, Newham’s AI lead, Nathan Nagaiah, will be joined by Arsalan Engineer, Head of Data at Newham Council, and Professor Matt Bellgard of the University of East London in a live webinar on the “Latest in AI Breakthroughs” taking place on 8th May.

Beyond the Capital

St Helens Borough Council’s award-winning Technology Enabled Care programme, recognised at the 2025 iNetwork Awards, uses AI-powered devices such as robotic therapy pets and smart water bottles to support independent living. The council reports annual savings of £145,000 per 20 patients through reduced domiciliary care needs.

Cheshire East Council’s March 2025 report projects up to £60 million in potential savings over five years through AI applications in social services and contact centres, a crucial opportunity for an authority currently receiving exceptional financial support from government.

Among 25 councils selected for the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology’s pilot, West Berkshire is testing the Minute AI transcription tool for meetings. Portfolio Holder Vicky Poole confirmed in April 2025 that “all materials will be generated by an officer, with assistance from Minute,” emphasising that all outputs receive human verification and AI will not be used to make decisions or create final reports.

Ethics in Action

Alongside West Berkshire: Camden, Newham and St Helens exemplify the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) AI Playbook’s ethical principles in practice:

• Newham subjects all housing algorithms to regular bias audits.
• Camden’s youth programme includes mandatory AI ethics modules.
• St Helens Council maintains human oversight on all AI-assisted care deployments.
  

“Progress is only possible with partnership,” Minister Feryal Clark highlighted at AI UK, stressing the need for “careful handling on safety and ethics” to ensure AI benefits all citizens.

With the DigiGov Expo returning this September, and involvement already secured from LOTI, the Government Digital Service, and DSIT, attention will be on the latest government announcements in digital transformation and AI adoption with tangible case studies from local councils and central government departments taking centre stage.

To register for a free place at the DigiGov Expo, taking place on 24th & 25th September at ExCeL London, visit the registration page here. Complimentary places are reserved for public sector professionals only.

To attend the upcoming webinar on 8th May with Newham Council and the University of East London, view the full webinar details here.