Barry Quirk CBE

Unsung heroes making a difference across the UK are being urged to step forward for a groundbreaking new scheme offering free support and valuable access to facility space. Award-winning leisure operator, Everyone Active, has pledged more than £60,000 in support of local projects, with the aim of building stronger communities and recognising the dedication of those who go above and beyond.

In early spring, in the sunny Gloucestershire hills, the third stop for this year's contestants on the 2025 LG Challenge was Stroud DC. The teams were welcomed to Ebley Mill, the home of the council and former woollen mill surrounded by the Cotswolds Canals. Kicking off day one in the chamber, the challenge commenced with a briefing where leader Cllr Catherine Braun and chief executive Kathy O'Leary, outlined the potential for the teams' ideas to shape future practice.

AI A national taskforce can fix local government procurement of AI, says Mavis Machirori. Recent government announcements on AI show that it is serious about using AI to grow the economy and improve public services. There is increasing hope and optimism around the potential benefits of AI for the public sector, from AI assistants to automation across education, health and policing.