The Cabinet Office published a playbook for local leaders on 21 October 2026, presented as a practical guide for designing and delivering public services and supporting decentralisation. Its launch was marked by an anniversary event in Sheffield for the Test, Learn and Grow programme, hosted jointly by the Cabinet Office, Sheffield City Council and South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority.

The programme, launched in 2025 across ten local authority partners, is a three-year UK public service reform effort addressing six core policy challenges, from improving employment outcomes for young people to reducing violence against women and girls. The government cited its work with Liverpool City Council on temporary accommodation for people experiencing homelessness: it said improved use and quality of data led to nightly temporary accommodation costs dropping by 30%, saving £6 million.

Cabinet Office Minister Sally Jameson said local leaders are best placed to integrate public services and respond to residents' needs. Sheffield City Council leader Fran Belbin welcomed the national platform the pilot projects had given city work supporting children from less advantaged backgrounds. The playbook is also due to be available as live guidance on GOV.UK, updated as the programme learns more.