Leeds GovJam brought together public sector innovators for two intensive days of hands-on design work. Here are some scenes from past editions — teams sketching ideas, building prototypes, and sharing what they learned.

The gallery captures the energy and collaborative spirit that defines every Leeds GovJam. Across the photographs, you can see teams from across the public sector gathered around tables, sketching out bold ideas on whiteboards and large sheets of paper. The room buzzes with conversation as people challenge assumptions and ask the hard questions that lead to better services. There is a tangible sense of purpose here — participants are not just talking about change, they are actively making it happen through fast-paced prototyping and user-centred design methods. Each image tells a story of shared learning and creative problem-solving.

One of the most striking elements visible in the gallery is the diversity of participants. Colleagues from local government, health services, community organisations, and the voluntary sector all come together under one roof. This mix of perspectives is what makes the jam so powerful. People who might not normally meet in their day jobs find themselves working side by side, each bringing unique skills and lived experiences to the challenge. The photos show genuine collaboration — hands-on work where everyone’s contribution is valued, and where traditional silos dissolve in favour of open, honest teamwork.

The gallery also highlights the hands-on nature of the jam process. You will see teams building rough prototypes from cardboard, sticky notes, and marker pens — turning abstract ideas into something tangible within hours. These low-fidelity models are not the final answer, but they allow participants to test assumptions quickly and refine their thinking. Mentors circulate among the groups, offering guidance and encouragement. The atmosphere is one of supportive intensity, where it is safe to experiment, fail fast, and learn from mistakes. That willingness to try something new sits at the heart of the GovJam experience.

Beyond the making and the doing, the gallery reveals the sense of community that sustains Leeds GovJam year after year. Smiling faces, shared meals, and moments of celebration punctuate the hard work. People leave not only with new ideas and practical skills, but also with lasting connections to fellow jammers. The event is a reminder that improving public services is a collective endeavour, and that a weekend of focused, creative effort can spark momentum that carries far beyond the jam itself. These images capture the start of something bigger — a network of people committed to making a difference.

Warm-toned photograph of hands arranging colourful sticky notes on a large paper-covered wall during a collaborative workshop.

Ideation in full swing

Teams mapping out service design concepts with sticky notes and wall-sized canvases.

Detail shot of a prototype made from paper and card, resting on a textured wooden table in warm ambient light.

Paper prototyping

Low-fidelity prototypes took shape quickly, helping teams test ideas on the spot.

A group of people standing around a wall covered in hand-drawn diagrams and sticky notes, reviewing their work together.

Team review

Participants gathered around their work, reflecting on progress and next steps.

Close-up of a participant writing on a shared canvas, with blurred figures in the background engaged in discussion.

Capturing insights

Every idea mattered — jammers documented findings as they emerged.

Overhead shot of a workshop table with sketchpads, markers, and coffee cups, lit by soft daylight from a nearby window.

The maker's table

Sketchpads, markers, and plenty of coffee fuelled the creative process.

Close-up of hands writing on paper worksheets surrounded by craft supplies, toy cars, and sticky notes on a table.

Hands-on methods

Design methods came alive through craft materials, worksheets, and collaborative exercises.