Barking and Dagenham Council is exploring the use of a new app called 'Loki' as a potential tool for direct communication with residents. The possibility of adopting the app was raised during a recent Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting, as detailed in the Public reports pack Wednesday 09-Sep-2026 19.00 Overview and Scrutiny Committee.
Councillor Ben Suter questioned whether the council was still investigating the use of Loki, highlighting its potential to provide a free platform directly to residents' phones for crucial information. The app operates on an advertising basis, and the council had previously been in discussions about its potential use. The company, Loki, has approached councillors and officers, and the council's head of communications and director of customer experience are due to meet with them imminently to discuss the proposal and conduct due diligence.
In response, officers confirmed that the council is still investigating the app. A key concern is ensuring there are no 'hidden costs' associated with the app's free service. The council is investigating to 'make sure there's no catches around. Some of these companies, they give you a freebie up front and then the costs come later on.' The specific nature of these potential hidden costs or typical financial arrangements for similar advertising-supported platforms are not yet detailed.
The discussion around Loki arose during a broader conversation about the council's communication strategies and the need to reach residents who may not be digitally connected or who prefer traditional communication methods. Councillors Ingrid Robinson and Julia Williams had previously raised concerns about digital exclusion and ensuring accessible information for all residents. The council is aware of the need to protect face-to-face contact, but specific measures to ensure non-digital users are not disadvantaged if Loki is adopted are not yet detailed.
The outcome of the due diligence process and a potential decision timeline for adopting the Loki app are not yet available, as the relevant meetings are happening imminently.
The council's exploration of Loki indicates a commitment to finding innovative ways to enhance resident engagement and communication, while also being mindful of potential financial implications and ensuring a balanced approach to communication channels. The Minutes of Previous Meeting and Agenda frontsheet Wednesday 09-Sep-2026 19.00 Overview and Scrutiny Committee provide further context on the committee's discussions.
