Piloting mass testing
We are all fed up with COVID-19. It has dominated our work, it’s all we talk about (let’s be honest, it’s the only thing to talk about), it’s disrupted all our lives, and changed the way we can live our lives.
Local youth services ‘need more funding’
The Government is to review its programmes supporting youth services in the spring, after announcing £100 million to deliver the National Citizen Service and invest in youth services in last month’s Spending Review.
Under the spotlight – scrutinising COVID-19
Setting up a scrutiny process in the middle of a pandemic might seem a crazy thing to do.
Spending Review shortened to one year
The Chancellor has decided to only conduct a one-year Spending Review in order to prioritise the response to COVID-19, and focus on immediate support to create jobs.
Working together as Independents
As local lockdowns continue to be put in place, including the whole of Wales, we have again asked the Government to ensure local leaders are at the forefront of decision-making – something ministers have agreed and need to uphold.
MPs support greater powers for councils
Eight in 10 MPs say councils should have more financial freedoms and powers to build homes in their area and 72 per cent say they should have more control over local taxes, according to exclusive LGA polling by Savanta ComRes.
COVID-19 grant scheme extended
A grant scheme that provides support with food and bills for vulnerable households during the pandemic has been extended.
Violence against women and girls
The horrific murder of Sarah Everard brought national attention to the issue of women’s safety, which was further exacerbated by the police’s heavy-handed response to the peaceful vigil at Clapham Common.
Legal challenge on virtual council meetings
The LGA is supporting a legal challenge to a decision not to extend emergency legislation on virtual council meetings, calling it “extremely disappointing”.
Rising to the challenges of COVID-19
The past year has been like no other. The COVID-19 virus has taken a huge toll on our communities, with each death a terrible loss.