The Transformative Impact of AI on Local Government

By Adam Dustagheer, Datnexa & Jim Robbins, Leader of Swindon Borough Council

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a distant promise for local government in Britain—it is a present-day catalyst for transformation. As leaders in technology and public service, we have witnessed AI’s potential to reshape how councils operate, deliver services, and empower communities. Our joint experiences at Datnexa and Swindon Borough Council illustrate both the opportunities and the responsibilities that come with this new era.

Unlocking Efficiency and Better Outcomes

AI is driving a step-change in local government efficiency and effectiveness. Councils across Britain are leveraging AI to:

• Automate routine administrative tasks, freeing up staff for higher-value work.

• Enhance decision-making through predictive analytics—such as identifying households at risk of falls or homelessness, enabling earlier and more targeted interventions.

• Improve resident services with AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants, providing 24/7 support and reducing response times.

  
  

Datnexa has pioneered the use of AI and Big Data to tackle public health challenges. The National Frailty Index (NFIX) analyses millions of data points to predict and prevent falls among the elderly, supporting both strategic planning and rapid, doorstep-level interventions. This data-driven approach is now expanding to address issues like dementia, cancer screening, and social isolation, recognising that health and wellbeing are deeply interconnected.

Inclusive Innovation: Swindon’s AI for Accessibility

Swindon Borough Council exemplifies how AI can drive inclusive public services. The “Simply Readable” initiative uses generative AI to convert complex documents into accessible “Easy Read” formats for people with learning disabilities. Previously, producing such documents was costly and slow—each A4 page could cost £120 and take weeks. AI now delivers these in seconds, empowering residents with learning disabilities and their carers, to access information and make informed decisions.

This innovation is not just about technology - it’s about collaborative co-design with the community. Volunteers with lived experience shaped the solution, ensuring features like large fonts, visual aids, and clear language truly meet users’ needs. Swindon is open-sourcing this technology, sharing it license-free to maximise its benefit across the country.

Responsible AI: Challenges and Guardrails

While the promise is immense, responsible AI adoption is paramount. Councils must:

• Strengthen data foundations to ensure accuracy and privacy.

• Address digital exclusion so that no resident is left behind.

• Mitigate algorithmic bias and ensure transparency in decision-making.

• Support staff through change, alleviating concerns about job displacement.

  
  

LGAi.uk, the Local Government Association and networks like LocalGovDigital are fostering collaboration and sharing best practice to help councils navigate these challenges.

Collaboration: The Key to Sustainable Transformation

No single organisation has all the answers. Datnexa champions collaborative innovation, working with Local Authorities, service providers and technology partners to co-design solutions that are robust, inclusive and scalable. Swindon’s journey shows the value of working with volunteers, experts and other councils to deliver real-world impact.

A Vision for the Future

AI’s true potential lies in its ability to democratise access to information, personalise services, and deliver interventions that improve lives—efficiently and equitably. As we face rising demand and financial pressures, AI offers a path to smarter, more compassionate public services.

But this future is not automatic. It requires vision, ethical leadership, and a relentless focus on the human impact of technology. By working together—across sectors, disciplines and communities, we can harness AI for the public good and build a fairer, more resilient Britain.