Communities have the right to decide their own future
They say a week is a long time in politics. Imagine what can happen in 12 months.
In September 2024, Reform UK had around 80,000 members and only a small number of councillors in local government.
One year later, membership stands at more than 250,000 and the party is fast approaching 1,000 councillors nationwide.
That progress reflects a simple truth: people are ready for change, and they see in Reform UK a credible, capable and professional force to deliver it.
Our 2025 party conference, held in early September, carried the theme ‘The Next Step’. It captured both how far we have come and our determination to build on that momentum.
The packed and purposeful programme covered everything from finance and devolution to community safety, innovation and digital reform.
A standout moment came when some of our newly elected council leaders joined our Director of Local Government, Cllr Jaymey McIvor, on the main stage for ‘Cleaning up our councils’.
This lively, forward-looking discussion focused on transparency, accountability and restoring trust – showcasing the professionalism and shared commitment that now define our growing network of councillors.
Across the conference, the calibre of debate stood out as new mayors, MPs and rising stars helped shape the party’s direction.
The tone throughout was purposeful, courteous and confident – reflecting a movement grounded in local communities and driven by people who want to serve.
The Councillors’ Lounge was another highlight: a hive of conversation and collaboration, where councillors shared ideas, discussed challenges and supported one another.
The atmosphere was one of unity and shared endeavour, and the sense of belonging to a wider Reform family was unmistakable.
One point of consensus stood out: a clear and principled view that local government reorganisation is being mishandled, driven from the top down without genuine consultation or consent.
This is not a technical debate about structures – it is about the right of communities to decide their own future.
No government has a mandate to redraw local boundaries without the consent of the people they serve.
Delaying elections further under the guise of reorganisation would only deepen the democratic deficit.
Our local places and the people who shape them have proud identities and deep-rooted heritage that must be respected.
Dividing them would not strengthen local democracy; it would weaken it, disrupting vital services and accountability, and risking serious consequences for the vulnerable adults and children who rely on them.
Reform UK stands firmly opposed to such proposals.
We will continue to make the case for an approach that strengthens local government and restores trust in it.
That means backing towns and communities that have been left behind for too long, and ensuring they have the tools, leadership and resources to thrive.
This year’s conference proved that Reform UK is a growing, professional and capable force in British politics, with councillors leading by example – courteous in debate, competent in delivery and committed to the people they serve.
If a week is a long time in politics, the next 12 months will be transformative, and Reform UK is ready to lead that change in our councils, our communities and our country.