June 2025

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Shaping Our Future: we want to hear from you!

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Do you have a spark of inspiration that could make a real difference? Whether it’s a small tweak or a bold new approach, your ideas could help shape our future and the communities we serve.

Why your voice is vital

We’re committed to delivering high-quality, essential services across East Lothian. But like many public sector organisations, we’re facing tough financial challenges. Over the next five years, we need to find savings equal to nearly 25% of our annual running costs. That’s no small feat.

To meet this challenge, we need to think differently. We need to work smarter. And most importantly, we need your insight.

Real feedback, real change

Thanks to your contributions through the 'Shaping Our Future' initiative, we’ve already uncovered key areas for improvement. One major theme has been manual processes that slow us down and frustrate colleagues.

Here’s what you said:

“Manual completion of forms – repeated keying of information. Lots of rekeying of information – Word documents – nothing pulling data or being prepopulated.”

“Contract letters are generated, filed in Civica EDRMS, and then manually entered into iTrent.”

“Experiences of downloading forms, using them, and issuing to HR only to be told they are outdated and a new version is available – mostly with the same information.”

This feedback led to focused work by the Transformation team, who found that outdated forms and inefficient systems were a major pressure point across the organisation.

Turning ideas into action

As a direct result of your input, a new project has been launched to tackle manual work head-on. The Transformation team is now working closely with HR to streamline processes, reduce duplication and eliminate unnecessary paperwork.

This is your impact in action. Your voice is shaping how we work.

Be part of the change

You know your job better than anyone. You understand the needs of your team and the communities you serve. That’s why your ideas are so powerful.

We’re calling on everyone - no matter your role or department - to share your thoughts, suggestions, and creative solutions. Whether it’s a new way of working, a digital tool or a simple fix to an everyday frustration, we want to hear from you.

Ready to share?

Join the conversation and help us build a more innovative, efficient, and sustainable organisation. Click the link on the intranet homepage to submit your idea today.

Together, we can shape a better future - one idea at a time.

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