Mark Whitehead 10 August 2017

Funding announced to foster innovation in public services

A community gardening scheme, improvements in ambulance services and a plan to tackle the effects of climate change are among projects aimed at fostering public sector innovation in Wales.

Local innovators are to be funded from a £5m Innovate to Save fund to tackle 'pressing social challenges' and save money.

It is run by innovation foundation Nesta, Cardiff University and Wales Council for Voluntary Action and funded by the Welsh Government.

The Grow Cardiff project will help local people engage in community gardening to support their health and well-being, while a collaboration between the Welsh Ambulance Service, local authorities and other public bodies in North Wales will aim to streamline non-emergency patient transport.

A community interest company will be set up in the coastal village of Fairbourne in Gwynedd, which is at risk of flooding caused by climate change, to examine new ways of using housing stock.

Welsh minister, Mark Drakeford, said: 'At a time of reducing budgets, we must all think and work differently if we are to maintain the level of public services people require.

'These eight projects will receive support through our Innovate to Save fund to collaborate with other organisations and bring forward innovative pilots.

'Not only will these generate savings which can be re-invested but they will improve services and outcomes for people across Wales.'

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Head of Democratic Services, Elections & Monitoring Officer

Harborough District Council
Grade 12 £67,236 – £71,223 plus £3000pa Statutory Officer Allowance
We are looking for an accomplished and proactive leader for our vacant post of Head of Democratic Services & Elections Market Harborough, Leicestershire
Recuriter: Harborough District Council

Strategic Director, Corporate Services

City of Bradford MDC
c£162,000 per annum, more for an exceptional candidate
Bradford is at an extraordinary moment of transformation Bradford, West Yorkshire
Recuriter: City of Bradford MDC

Director of Human Resources

City of Bradford MDC
£119,466 - £131,207
Bradford is at an extraordinary moment of transformation Bradford, West Yorkshire
Recuriter: City of Bradford MDC

Director of Resources (Section 151 Officer)

North Kesteven District Council
£109,668 – £117,623
Create the conditions for long-term prosperity
Recuriter: North Kesteven District Council

Director of Libraries, Sport and Physical Activity & Communities

Glasgow Life
£102,894.01 - £116,854.38 per year
Our teams focus on making a real difference through culture and sport in Glasgow. Glasgow, Glasgow City
Recuriter: Glasgow Life
Linkedin Banner