Introducing GDS Local, a new initiative from the Government Digital Service (GDS) designed to strengthen collaboration between central and local government. Its mission is to share learning, foster innovation, and improve digital services for citizens and communities across the UK.
GDS Local is part of the GDS blueprint for a modern digital government. It aims to make digital transformation faster, smarter, and more sustainable through better collaboration. By connecting local authorities with central government, GDS Local helps deliver seamless public services that work for everyone.
Key Focus Areas of GDS Local
GDS Local addresses challenges in three critical areas:
1. Developing a Strategic Vision for Local Government Technology
GDS Local works with the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG), the Local Government Association (LGA), and local practitioners to co-create a shared vision for local government technology. This includes:
- Building shared products and components
- Reforming IT procurement
- Aligning technology with the goals of a modern digital government
2. Unlocking Local Data Potential
Data is key to better decision-making. GDS Local collaborates with partners to break down barriers to data sharing across services. This enables:
- Easier access to critical data for informed decisions
- Identifying trends and measuring impact
- Improved support for vulnerable residents while maintaining privacy safeguards
Imagine housing teams seamlessly accessing health and social care data to provide better services—this is the future GDS Local is working toward.
3. Making GDS Products Available to Local Authorities
GDS Local is opening up more GDS platforms and products to local councils, including:
- GOV.UK App
- GOV.UK OneLogin
This means residents could use a single sign-on and identity verification service to access both central and local government services—reducing form-filling and repeat verification.
GDS Local works directly with MHCLG, LGA, and councils to:
- Scale digital innovation across local authorities
- Promote shared standards and technology
- Make public services simpler, faster, and more joined-up
- Share knowledge, insights, and best practices
- Explore new approaches to digital services
- Build learning networks to develop skills and experience
By fostering collaboration and innovation, GDS Local helps create a more productive and agile state. Citizens benefit from seamless services that work across local and national government, making interactions with public services easier and more efficient.
Image credit: iStock
