New technologies can improve community debate and underpin service reforms, according to Kent CC. The authority is using a fringe event at the LGA conference in Bournemouth to reveal the latest successes of its ground-breaking broadband service. The site, which provides both council information and content from local people, is hosted by Sir Bob Geldof's company, Ten Alps TV. Kent CC has used the TV service to promote its extensive local welfare-reform programme which, in line with central government policy, aims to get people off benefits and into sustained employment. Since its launch in September, it has had almost two million page impressions and 140,337 unique visitors, with coverage of a Radio 1 roadshow attracting 75,000 visits in a month. Delegates also heard how Kent was using new technologies to help enable adult social care patients to live independently at home for longer. Peter Gilroy, chief executive of Kent CC said: ‘As with anything innovative and pioneering, Kent TV has had its detractors, but the latest viewing figures show the huge potential for engaging with people and connecting them.'
