Lack of clarity on tier system
Many in local government welcomed the announcement of the new tier system a few weeks ago, hoping that it would bring simplicity and clarity to councils, residents and businesses subject to restrictions.
Funding for early help ‘critical’
As we re-enter a difficult period of rising COVID-19 infections, it’s a good time to look back at what lessons we can learn from the first wave of coronavirus for the delivery of services to vulnerable children and families.
Child victims of domestic abuse
The new Domestic Abuse Act 2021 legally recognises children as victims. We now need to make sure that this translates into meaningful change in the way we support these children.
A blue recovery
For someone working in conservation, the pandemic – with its close links to the destruction of our natural environment – can prompt despair at the years of ignored warnings.
Short-termism ‘hampering’ adult social care
Short-term funding and the lack of a long-term vision for adult social care have hampered local authorities’ ability to innovate and plan for the future, according to a report by the National Audit Office.
Jobs on the line
Local government has a crucial role to play in jobs and skills recovery after the pandemic.
Tenacity and fluid thinking
It has been a rewarding – albeit challenging – 10 months since I became Gloucester City Council’s Cabinet Member for Economic Recovery and Growth.
Kickstarting careers
Councils are backing a government scheme to boost learning and job opportunities for young people, and have suggested ways to maximise its effectiveness.
Place-based approach ‘key’ to getting people active
The LGA has welcomed a recent report from Sport England that recognises the critical importance of a place-based approach to supporting communities to be active.
Mental health reforms ‘must ensure funding’
‘Landmark’ reforms of mental health laws must also ensure ongoing funding for councils’ mental health services, the LGA has said.