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Principles met

  • Innovation

    We will embrace innovation in how we work with local communities to drive positive change.

  • Learning

    We will capture and ‘expand’ the experience and learning from individual projects and approaches in order to encourage broader application of co-operative principles within individual member Councils and across the Network.

  • Maximising social value

    We will support the development of a framework and criteria for social value, giving substance to the concept and supporting Councils with the tools to ensure better local social and economic outcomes.

  • New models of meeting priority needs

    In exploring new ways of meeting the priority needs of our communities we will encourage models, such as co-operatives and mutuals, which give greater influence and voice to staff and users. in designing and commissioning public services and in determining the use of public resources.

Like many local authorities, Derby City Council faced severe financial pressures amid rising service demands. Having invested in digital improvements for a decade, it recognised AI as a means to enhance efficiency, optimise resources, and sustain services. Partnering with ICS.AI, Derby launched the UK’s most extensive public sector AI transformation, aiming to create a replicable national model.

With over 60% of resident contact via telephone, Derby introduced Darcie (customer services) and Ali (housing) in April 2023, creating the UK’s first AI-powered 24/7 “digital front door”. This reduced call volumes and improved delivery, with early results exceeding expectations and building confidence for wider adoption. A review involving 100 staff across 44 workshops identified 261 AI opportunities, with 54 prioritised across social care, debt, customer service, productivity, and children’s services. Staff engagement was key, supported by a champions network and an independently chaired AI Ethics Board.

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