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Introducing SAVVI Blueprints: Using Data to Tackle Vulnerability

by Shelley Heckman, Published 09 January 2026

How can the local government sector use data to make a real difference for residents facing hardship or crisis? That’s the question at the heart of the SAVVI Programme. Across the UK, councils are working tirelessly to identify and support the most vulnerable households - but the challenge is complex. Data exists in many places, under different rules, and often isn’t joined up in a way that enables timely, effective action.

That’s where SAVVI Blueprints come in. These resources are designed to turn learning into practical guidance, helping Local Authorities and their partners use data responsibly and efficiently to find and support those who need help most.

What Are SAVVI Blueprints?

SAVVI Blueprints pull together learning from across the sector and make clear, actionable recommendations for how Local Authorities can apply the SAVVI Framework to real-world challenges. Each blueprint focuses on a specific vulnerability, such as financial hardship or needing help in a civil emergency, and provides guidance on:

How to use data to find and support households at risk

Relevant statutory powers, duties, and lawful-basis options for data sharing and reuse

The most helpful support and referral options

Differences in approach across the nations of the UK

Practical steps for aligning with Information Governance and Data Protection requirements

While the blueprints summarise legislation and governance considerations, they do not constitute legal advice. Each organisation must ensure its chosen approach complies with applicable laws and reflects its own ethical standards.

Why Are We Creating Blueprints?

Local Authorities face increasing pressure to respond quickly and effectively to vulnerabilities in their communities. By providing a structured, evidence-based approach, SAVVI Blueprints aim to:

Reduce duplication of effort.

Promote lawful and ethical data sharing.

Enable better collaboration between councils and their partners.

Prevent residents going into crisis

What’s Coming First?

Our first blueprint, currently in draft, focuses on financial hardship - a growing concern for many households. This resource will outline how councils can use data to identify residents who may need support and connect them to the right services.

Looking ahead, we plan to develop additional blueprints, including one on civil contingencies and emergency support, helping authorities prepare for and respond to crises.

Who Should Read These Blueprints?

SAVVI Blueprints are designed for anyone involved in helping Local Authorities use data to better support vulnerable residents. If you work within a council and are looking to implement the SAVVI Framework, these resources will provide practical guidance tailored to your needs. They’re also highly relevant for organisations that deliver data services to councils, offering insights into how to align with best practices for data sharing and reuse. Additionally, Information Governance professionals will find detailed sections on lawful data processing and compliance with legislation, though the content is written to be accessible to anyone with an interest in legal, ethical and effective data use.

About SAVVI

The SAVVI Programme is funded by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) and hosted by Tameside Council. Our mission is to help organisations use data responsibly to improve outcomes for vulnerable residents. You can watch a short explainer video about SAVVI on our

website home page⁠

Stay Connected

Want to be the first to access the Financial Hardship Blueprint when it’s published?

Sign up for updates and join the SAVVI community as we develop practical tools to help Local Authorities tackle vulnerability through better use of data.

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Contact the SAVVI team at

info@savviuk.org⁠

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