Although there are no sessions this month, here is a quick post-Christmas bumper slide pack with things that have been going on. Issued covered: Advancing Welfare Policies and Tackling Economic Pressures: Insights from the Revenues and Benefits Discussion Group In an evolving economic and social landscape, the Revenues and Benefits Discussion Group slide pack covers…
Author: Malcolm
Malcolm Gardner, has had a diverse and impactful career spanning several decades, beginning in the IT industry in the 1970s and later transitioning to leadership roles in local government. His work on early Housing Benefit systems and managing Revenues and Benefits departments established him as a pioneer in using data analytics, electronic systems, and emerging technologies to improve public sector services. As a consultant, he continued to innovate, focusing on efficiency and better outcomes for end-users. His expertise extended beyond technology, as he also introduced performance management, behavioural change strategies, and set standards for local authority fraud investigations.
In 2018, Malcolm joined Team Netsol as a Senior Business Analyst, where he applied his deep understanding of technology trends to support welfare and taxation policies. Even after his retirement in 2022, his commitment to public service remained strong. He revived his company, Visionary Network, as a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to modernising local government. Today, Malcolm is a leading authority on redesigning council tax and welfare schemes, continuing to influence the future of public services with his innovative vision.
English Devolution White Paper: Housing, finance, council tax, business rates, welfare benefits, and social security
Housing Finance Council Tax Business Rates Welfare Benefits and Social Security The English Devolution White Paper proposes significant changes to local governance in England, aiming to decentralize power from Westminster to regional authorities. Several sources have already identified several advantages and potential risks: Advantages: Enhanced Local Decision-Making: Empowering local leaders allows for policies tailored to…
VN Mid December Discussion Group Update
Although there are no sessions this month, here is a quick slide pack with things that have been going on. Issued covered:News Updates
Generative AI in Revenues and Benefits Services: Potential, Challenges, and Cautions
The rise of generative AI tools, such as ChatGPT, Gemini, and Copilot, has sparked discussions across industries about their potential to enhance productivity and streamline processes. In the revenues and benefits sector, where accuracy, compliance, and clarity are paramount, generative AI presents both opportunities and significant challenges. A recent discussion among professionals in the Independent…
VN Monday 25/11/24 Discussion Group- Gen AI plus two Poverty Reports
On 25 November 2024, a robust session of the Independent R&B Discussion Group brought together professionals to share insights on generative AI, poverty trends, and disability employment. Hosted by Malcolm Gardner, the session included notable contributions from diverse speakers. Generative AI: Opportunities and Cautions The discussion opened with Malcolm Gardner demonstrating generative AI’s potential to…
VN Monday 18/11/24 Discussion Group- Enhancing Financial Inclusion: The Impact of Credit Unions
In Monday’s session of the Independent R&B Discussion Group, speakers explored the vital role of credit unions in promoting financial inclusion and addressing poverty. The discussion, led by Ian Brewer, EDI Community Development Lead at Bradford District Credit Union, highlighted innovative strategies and local authority partnerships. Key Insights from Ian Brewer Ian detailed how Bradford’s…
VN Monday Discussion Group 11/11/24 Analysis of Current Welfare and Housing Support Challenges
The welfare and housing support landscape in the UK is facing significant challenges, as highlighted in the Independent R&B Discussion Group held on 11 November 2024. Moderated by Malcolm Gardner, the discussion brought together experienced professionals from various local authorities, exploring the impacts of recent government budget allocations on housing and welfare support. Key topics…
VN Monday Discussion Group 4/11/24 The Autumn Budget
On 4 November 2024, the Independent R&B Discussion Group met to examine the latest budget and its implications for local services, public spending, and policies affecting welfare and business rates. Led by Malcolm Gardner, the session provided detailed insights from experts in local government finance and welfare, with a focus on emerging policies and the…
Briefing Paper: Welfare, Social Security & Benefits, Local Government Funding, and Support in the UK
Overview and Economic Context The Autumn Budget 2024, introduced by the Chancellor, aims to strengthen the UK’s economic foundations amid inflation and stagnant growth. With a recent audit revealing £22 billion in annual spending pressures, the Budget addresses both immediate and structural fiscal needs through support for households, adjustments to local government funding, and targeted…
VN Monday Discussion Group 28/10/2024 Liberata’s Free R&B benchmarking Tool
The Independent R&B Discussion Group met on 28 October 2024 to review the latest developments in council tax and business rates benchmarking. The session focused on a demonstration of Liberata’s new benchmarking tool, designed to assist local authorities in analysing and improving their revenue collection processes. This tool provides a valuable perspective on council tax…