An opportunity to shake things up
Last month’s District Councils’ Network Annual Conference took place, of course, at a time of local government reorganisation, which is set to lead to the abolition of every district council.
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A blueprint for electoral reform
As the first set of scheduled polls since the 2024 general election, the 1 May local elections are a move back to electoral ‘business as usual’. We strongly believe now is the time to improve that business for everyone involved.
School transport project tackles budget pressures
One of the biggest budget pressures on upper-tier councils today is home-to-school transport.
Improving young people’s wellbeing
#BeeWell is a youth-centred programme that exists to improve the wellbeing of young people across England.
Strengthening partnership working in children’s social care
The Department for Education’s Families First for Children Pathfinder (FFCP) programme is designed to test ways to reform the children’s social care system.
Embedding health into planning
The places in which we live, work and socialise have a profound impact on our health. From access to green space and active travel, to the quality of housing and community infrastructure, the built environment plays a crucial role in shaping our wellbeing.
Performing arts for young people in care
There’s something extraordinary about the performing arts that is hard to find in any other discipline.
Challenges and opportunities
With less than a week to go until the 1 May local elections in England, I wanted to put on record my thanks to all those colleagues who are standing for re-election or standing down.
The best start in life
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson’s welcome announcement of the first 300 new school-based nurseries responds to a manifesto commitment and a pressing need – ensuring children get the best start in life. This deeply resonates with local leaders.
The biggest power grab in decades
The Government’s Planning and Infrastructure Bill will do little to get spades in the ground and increase England’s housing supply.