At the time of writing, we are dismayed by the murder in the US of Charlie Kirk.
Here in our own communities, we are seeing heightened tensions as political views clash and emotions run high.
In this climate, councillors face an increasingly complex and vital role: to lead with empathy, maintain dialogue and foster unity.
Our members have shared how difficult it is to engage in conversations without facing hostility. Yet, it is precisely in these moments, when feelings are strongest, that our leadership matters most.
As community leaders, councillors are not only navigating public sentiment, but also facing concerns about their own personal safety.
This is a critical time for us at the LGA to show national leadership, by demonstrating how consensus politics that strengthens local government – so communities thrive – works in practice, exhibiting the LGA’s values of collaboration, inclusion, ambition and respect.
The Independent Group is shaping its next annual conference, planned to be held early in 2026, around the theme of resilience: personal resilience, community resilience, environmental resilience and financial resilience.
This focus reflects the challenges we face and the strength we must cultivate together.
Now more than ever, our collective leadership can make a difference. Let us stand firm in our values and support one another in building resilient, inclusive communities.