Cost of social care for children up a quarter
Latest figures show that spending to protect vulnerable children at risk of harm has increased by almost a quarter in five years, because of soaring demand for support.
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Record vacancies mask jobs disparity
A third of England still has twice as many jobseekers as there are vacancies, according to new research commissioned by the LGA – despite the unemployment rate reaching its lowest level for more than 50 years.
Maintained schools ‘outperforming academies’
Council-maintained schools are outperforming academies, new research for the LGA reveals.
Local elections dilemma
With the final result in the London Borough of Havering declared fully 96 hours after the polls closed, this year’s local elections truly were a slow burn.
Consultation launched on fire service governance
The Government has reiterated its preference for fire and rescue services to be accountable to a single, elected individual, in its long-awaited fire reform White Paper.
18,000 affordable homes ‘lost’ to permitted development
More than 18,000 affordable houses have been lost as a result of office-to-residential conversions under permitted development.
Illegal tobacco sales exacerbating health inequalities
Smokers could increasingly turn to illicit tobacco, which can be sold for as little as half market price, to cut costs, the LGA has warned.
500,000 ‘waiting for adult social care’
More than half a million people are waiting for an adult social care assessment, for care or a direct payment to begin, or for a review of their care, according to a recent survey.
National welcome for new councillors
The LGA is hosting a virtual national welcome event for newly elected councillors on 20 June, following May’s local elections.
New bill ‘to empower local leaders’
The Government has set out its plans to drive local growth and empower local leaders to regenerate their areas, in a Levelling-up and Regeneration Bill.