LGAi UnConference 2026
About this Event
A different kind of AI event
Most AI events in local government follow the same script. Someone sells you a tool. Someone shows you a slide that says "transformational". Everyone nods, goes home, and not much changes. This isn't that.
The LGAi UnConference is a day for the people actually doing the work to talk honestly about what AI really means for their services. The good, the awkward and the unresolved.
There are no keynotes. No vendor pitches. No panels where everyone politely agrees. The agenda is built on the day, by the people in the room.
What's an UnConference?
If you've not been to one before, it's simple. There's no fixed programme set in advance. When you arrive, the room decides together what it wants to talk about. The sessions that matter most to you get the time they deserve, and you spend the day in conversations you actually chose.
It works because everyone takes part. There's no audience - just participants.
What you might end up talking about
That's genuinely up to the room, but if past LGAi sessions are anything to go by, expect threads like:
- The pilots that worked, and the ones that quietly didn't
- 'Shadow AI' - the tools people are already using, invited or not
- Getting a DPIA through fast enough to keep up with a pilot
- What to actually ask suppliers when everyone claims to "have AI"
- Protecting professional judgement as tools become part of the work
- Talking to councillors and SLT about AI without it becoming a headline
- Legal literacy, consent and information governance done properly
Bring a question. Bring a war story. Bring the thing you've been wanting to ask but couldn't in front of your own leadership team.
About LGAi
LGAi is a community of more than 450 people across UK local government, thinking honestly about AI without the hype. Nobody is selling anything. That's the whole point, and it's why people tell us it's the one space where they can be properly open.
The community is led by Kate Parsley and Emma Ockelford of Outcomes Matter Consulting.
Why only 50 spaces?
Because the format depends on it. An UnConference needs a room where everyone can take part and every voice can be heard. Keeping it small is what makes the conversation real. Once the 50 spaces are gone, they're gone.
With thanks to our sponsor, Forvis Mazars
This event is only possible because Forvis Mazars are generously hosting us at their Manchester offices and supporting the day. We're grateful to them for backing an independent, vendor-neutral space for the sector - and for understanding exactly why that matters. Thank you, Forvis Mazars.
Forvis Mazars is a global audit, tax, advisory and consulting firm, formed in 2024 from the combination of FORVIS and Mazars. With deep roots in the UK public sector, the firm works closely with local authorities and other public bodies, bringing both international scale and strong local insight.
Practical information
Date: Thursday 16 July 2026
Time: 10:00 – 16:00 (doors open 09:30)
Venue: Forvis Mazars Manchester Offices, One St Peter's Square, Manchester M2 3DE
Refreshments: Tea, coffee and light lunch included
Good to know
Accessibility and access needs We want everyone to be able to take part fully. If you have any access requirements, let us know when you book or email [email protected] and we'll do our best to sort it.
Your contact details We will need to share your name and email address with Forvis Mazars colleagues for event organisation purposes.
Questions? Drop a comment, message Emma or Kate on LinkedIn, or email [email protected].
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
GBP 0.00
