When the right partners come together, meaningful change follows.
Our recent AI in Local Government workshop, delivered in partnership with Somerset Association of Local Councils (SALC), SOCITM, and the CloudyIT team, brought councillors, clerks, and officers together for a bold, scenario-led exploration of how AI can support local decision-making.
But this wasn’t about technology for its own sake.
It was about Members taking the lead—asking tough questions, shaping policy, and exploring how AI could help them deliver more for their communities.
Why Now?
Across England, devolution is shifting responsibility. As principal authorities step back, town and parish councils—and their members—are stepping up.
From planning and public safety to procurement and community engagement, councillors are being asked to do more with less. That means finding new ways to think, act, and lead.
AI can help.
Not by replacing human insight, but by supporting it:
- Efficiency gains in report drafting – saving time on policy documents while improving clarity and consistency
- Smarter research support – quickly identifying relevant legislation, guidance, and case studies to inform council decisions
- Better-informed decision-making – offering evidence-based insights and options that help Members weigh choices with greater confidence
What the Workshop Covered:
Attendees worked through three practical, high-impact scenarios:
- Managing rising maintenance costs at a closed churchyard
- Responding to a major housing development application
- Preparing for Martyn’s Law and the Protect Duty
The sessions focused on the role of councillors – highlighting where AI can support good governance, clear communication, and stronger local outcomes.
What Councillors Said:
The feedback was honest, insightful and encouraging:
- 93% believe AI could be beneficial to their council role
- Half felt fairly confident using AI by the end of the event
- Another third felt very or extremely confident
- 80% would want a follow-up session
Inspiring Leadership from the Sector :
We were honoured to welcome:
- Sam Smith, Director of Institute, SOCITM, who opened the day with “Artificial Intelligence: Where to Begin?”—a brilliant, grounded introduction for Members navigating digital change
- Lewis Anderson, councillor and clerk, whose session explored the human side of AI in council life
- And of course, Somerset CALC, whose partnership brought the event to life.
Looking Ahead
We’re continuing the conversation this November with Northants CALC.
If you’re a councillor curious about how AI could support your role, improve service delivery, or help future-proof your council, join us.
Reserve your place now: www.cloudyit.co.uk/ai-in-local-government
Try GovAssist
GovAssist is a free, council-focused AI assistant designed to support Members, clerks, and officers.
Draft reports. Shape planning responses. Manage procurement. Communicate clearly—with confidence.
→ Get started today at govassist.co.uk
