Improvement and Efficiency West Midlands has a history of bringing innovation and promoting new approaches in the region.
This White Paper highlights the practical opportunities provided by Social Media technologies and demonstrates how the use of ‘unconferences’ and similar models of bringing people together in informal networks with fresh ideas is having an impact at local and regional levels.
The IEWM team have attended a number of events that have highlighted the opportunities provided by social media to support new ways of working, communicate some of the major challenges facing local government and possibly assist with the delivery of efficiencies.
Discussions with people engaged in these activities reveal that there is significant enthusiasm and appetite to make improvements and these could be introduced quite simply but empowerment to act and resources to leverage the change are not always present. Within the current economic climate authorities do not always have the ability to be able to take risks with even a small amount of resources.
The IEWM Board has set aside a budget (up to £5000 per project) which can be used for the development of ideas generated through the region’s Social Media activities. If you have any ideas please send your proposals to info@westmidlandsiep.gov.uk for discussion and approval with the wider team.
Who can apply to the fund?
Hi Ed,
The New Ideas Fund can be accessed by local authorities in the West Midlands.
What about police services? Are we eligible to apply?
Regards
Jackie Harrison
Hi Jackie,
Yes, you are able to apply. Please send us your proposal to info@westmidlandsiep.gov.uk by 13 September 2013.
Are you still accepting application?
Hi Tariq, I believe Liz at Sandwell has already replied to your query but please let us know if you need any more information.
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