Agenda item

Report of the Executive Director of Resources and Governance.

The Cabinet Member with the Resources Portfolio introduced the report (previously circulated) of the Executive Director of Resources and Governance requesting that consideration be given to the Digital Darlington Strategy 2025/30 (also previously circulated).

The submitted report stated that the Digital Darlington Strategy was aligned to the Customer Services Strategy 2025/30; the focus of the strategy was to maximise the productivity and efficiency that could be achieved from technology through customer access to services and via back office systems; the strategy adopted a ‘digital first’ approach in accessing council services by those who could do so, allowing resources to be allocated to support those people who could not; and that having a clear understanding of digital exclusion and those affected by it enabled the Council to explore potential interventions and ensure that no-one was left unable to access services.

It was reported that the strategy drew together several existing work strands together with some new ones into a single strategy and action plan based on four themes of customer focused; digital exclusion; encourage adoption of digital channels; and maximising the benefits of existing ICT systems, and explore, assess, and implement emerging technologies

RESOLVED – That Digital Darlington Strategy 2025/30 and associated action plan, as appended to the submitted report, be approved.

REASONS – (a) This will provide the Council with a structured approach to the consideration and adoption emerging technology.

(b)  There will be a clear understanding of digital exclusion locally, and this knowledge will be used to inform the development of online services, and to signpost people to support so they can develop skills and access services digitally.

(c)  Supports the Council’s drive for improved efficiency and productivity.