Newark and Sherwood District Council continue to improve digital services, but retain face to face, phone and postal communication

An authority is aiming to ensure no customers are left behind as it uses more digital communication.

Outlining its digital strategy, Newark and Sherwood District Council officers told cabinet members it would continue with a ‘no customer left behind’ approach to digital initiatives.

This means it will not close any other communication channels to the community, including face-to-face, telephone and postal, while continuing to develop its digital services.

The report said: “Digitalisation frees up officer time to focus on those most vulnerable in the district and helps us provide better quality services.”

Digitalisation within the council has also saved 2,429 trees saved by reducing mileage and emissions for work, saved £148,000 in reduction of mileage claims and officer time spent travelling, contract negotiations, new technologies and streamlining IT systems.

The move to Cloud storage has also increased its energy efficiency by 93%.

Cabient members approved the continuation of the final phase of the 2021 to 2024 Digital Strategy, and the commencement of work towards the 2024 to 2028 Digital Strategy.

The 2021 to 2024 strategy includes projects to further improve the council’s website, introduce electronic document signing, and support communities to develop digital skills.

Funding for the final phase of the strategy was included in previously set budgets.