In an era defined by rapid change and evolving priorities, local councils like Adur & Worthing are stepping up with innovative approaches that balance stability and transformation. These initiatives offer valuable lessons for organisations across sectors, from startups to anchor institutions. Let’s dive into how Adur & Worthing are making change work for their communities and what we can learn from them.
Making sustainability local and actionable
One of Adur & Worthing’s standout initiatives is the new food waste collection service, rolled out to improve recycling rates and reduce landfill waste. This change, though logistical at its core, demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and community participation. (adur-worthing.gov.uk)
What others can do:
- Think local: Tailor sustainability projects to meet specific community needs, ensuring they resonate with people’s day-to-day lives.
- Communicate early and often: Clear messaging about the ‘why’ behind changes fosters trust and participation.
- Measure impact: Track the outcomes of initiatives to show tangible benefits and guide future projects.
Pioneering innovation in public services
Adur & Worthing Councils are leading the way with the world’s first trial of hydrogen energy at Worthing Crematorium. This bold move not only demonstrates a commitment to sustainability but also positions the councils as pioneers in public sector innovation. (adur-worthing.gov.uk)
What others can do:
- Be bold in innovation: Take calculated risks to adopt emerging technologies that align with organisational values.
- Lead by example: Showcase how innovative solutions can be implemented at a local level to inspire others.
- Collaborate widely: Partner with academic institutions, private companies, and other public bodies to share expertise and resources.
Building community resilience through shared spaces
Adur & Worthing have invested in creating inclusive community spaces, such as the refurbishment of key local parks and green spaces. These projects foster social cohesion and wellbeing, making public spaces hubs for community life. (adur-worthing.gov.uk)
What others can do:
- Focus on inclusivity: Design spaces that cater to diverse needs, encouraging participation from all parts of the community.
- Prioritise co-design: Involve residents in planning public spaces to ensure they reflect the community’s identity and aspirations.
- Embed resilience: Develop spaces that can adapt to future challenges, from climate change to shifting social dynamics.
Lessons from beyond Adur & Worthing
Adur & Worthing’s work is part of a broader wave of innovation across the UK and beyond. For example:
- Camden Council’s climate assembly engaged residents directly in shaping their climate action plan, showing how participative processes can lead to stronger policies. (camden.gov.uk)
- Birmingham City Council’s Clean Air Zone has demonstrated the power of bold policies to drive environmental and health benefits. (birmingham.gov.uk)
- The Eden Project in Cornwall is a shining example of how environmental and cultural regeneration can transform local economies. (edenproject.com)
Call to action: what’s your next step?
Whether you’re leading a local authority, managing a team, or driving innovation in a different sector, there’s much to learn from these examples. Here are some practical steps to consider:
- Start small but think big: Pilot initiatives that address immediate needs while aligning with long-term goals.
- Collaborate across sectors: Work with diverse partners to pool resources and share knowledge.
- Engage your community: Whether it’s employees, residents, or stakeholders, involve them in shaping and delivering change.
Adur & Worthing’s journey shows that meaningful change isn’t just about big ideas — it’s about bringing people together, testing new approaches, and building resilience for the future. The question is: how will you take these lessons and make them work for your organisation or community?
