EHCPs rise as new inclusion guide published
The number of children with an education, health and care plan (EHCP) for special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) has increased by 12.5 per cent since last year, according to official figures.
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Shadow Secretary of State at LGA forum
Sir James Cleverly MP, Shadow Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, joined the LGA’s most recent Councillors’ Forum to share his perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing local government.
Local government honoured
The work of councillors and officers in local government has been recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours List 2026.
More people accessing STI services
There has been a decrease in diagnoses of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in England, according to annual data from the UK Health Security Agency.
Children’s social care costs at ‘record high’
A coalition of children’s charities is calling on the Government to use recent investment to rebalance children’s services towards early support.
Students to get MenB vaccine
The Government has announced the rollout of a one-off meningitis B vaccine programme for young people in England and Wales.
Replacement needed for Healthwatch, says LGA
The LGA is calling on the Government to retain a statutory independent local patient ‘voice’ and work with councils to develop a model for patient and public voice that ensures accountability and independence across health and social care.
LGA’s new political balance confirmed
The Green Party is to establish a group office at the LGA, following the 7 May elections in which it exceeded the required 5 per cent threshold.
Post-16 local offer ‘needs to improve’
Councils must be at the heart of solving the youth unemployment crisis, the LGA has said in response to Alan Milburn’s independent interim report on young people and work.
‘Extend playground vaping ban’ – LGA
The LGA has called for an extension to the proposed ban on smoking and vaping in children’s playgrounds to include all playgrounds, not just those managed by councils.