First of all, I would like to congratulate all those councillors who were elected on 6 May, especially the Liberal Democrat ones. We were holding elections in the most difficult of situations, during a major public health crisis.
Despite high hopes, June’s easing of lockdown was postponed and many of our councils are continuing to support communities and businesses through local outbreaks.
‘Take back control’ was a message that resonated with many people during the Brexit referendum, the fallout of which continues to fuel the public’s attitude to politics five years later.
In April 2013, the Government changed how crisis support was delivered.
In supported housing, accommodation is provided alongside care, support or supervision to help people live as independently as possible.
Inequalities in health services, employment, housing and many other issues are having a detrimental impact on the health and wellbeing of minority ethnic people.
With pressures from COVID-19, changes to official investment guidance and some recent negative media reports regarding council commercial activity, there is a risk that local authorities may reduce innovation and commercial approaches.
It has continued to be an incredibly busy time for our members as elections loom.
For decades, local authorities have held lead responsibility for commissioning services to provide care and recovery for people struggling with drug or alcohol addiction.
Friends, this is my last column ahead of the local elections and our group elections that follow.