Welcome to this episode of Socitm Says, where we’re diving into the world of data — not the cold, abstract kind, but the warm, human stories it can unlock. Too often, data is seen as numbers on a page or dashboards on a screen. But when used well, it can transform how decisions are made, how policies are shaped, and ultimately how people’s lives are improved.

In this conversation, we explore exactly that. Hear from our two fantastic guests: Darren Rodwell, who led Barking & Dagenham Council for over a decade, and Ben Bennetts, a true data guru who knows how to make the complex simple. 

Together, they share how the council used data to shape policy, deliver outcomes, and reframe the conversation about what local government can achieve.

It’s a fascinating listen - packed with insights you can take back to your own organisation.