UK government launches GDS Local to upgrade council services

Data sharing through the new hub aims to improve public services while protecting privacy.
New UK unit supports councils with modern digital tools

A new UK government unit called GDS Local has been launched to help councils modernise local digital services. Ministers aim to simplify everyday tasks such as managing council tax, reporting issues or securing school places through more joined-up online access.

Residents may eventually use a single GOV.UK One Login to reach both national and local services. Councils will receive support to move away from restrictive long contracts and adopt more flexible, cost-effective technology that suits local needs.

British authorities will also share anonymised data through the Digital and Data Hub to improve learning across the public sector. Strict privacy safeguards are promised, particularly for sensitive information related to homelessness or service demand.

Leaders from Liverpool City Region and the Local Government Association welcomed the initiative as a step toward consistent, modern public services. Stemming from this, an Innovation Hackathon will follow in Birmingham to explore how new tools could help reduce rough sleeping.

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