Local government’s everyday heroes
A career in local government is one many choose for the sense of purpose it offers, and the sector attracts people who are often the everyday unsung heroes of our society.
The joy of helping care-experienced youngsters
Children in care can sadly often be seen as a financial burden, but that’s not how it should be.
Support for refugees
In 1999, I arrived in the UK as a refugee, hidden in the back of a refrigerated container with my young family and unable to speak a word of English.
Fire prevention and safeguarding residents
Fire safety is often viewed as a technical issue, but tragic incidents have demonstrated that it is fundamentally a safeguarding one.
New year, new opportunities
Last year was another extraordinary one for local government – one of challenge, but also of real progress.
Scrutinising devolution in the Lords
I would like to wish everyone across the local government family a prosperous 2026 and congratulate all those in the sector who were recognised for their efforts in the New Year Honours List – in particular, the former Leader of Buckinghamshire Council Cllr Martin Tett, who has been made a CBE.
Progress on fair funding
Let me take the opportunity in this first first magazine of 2026 to wish all LGA member councils a very happy new year.
Ready for more gains in May
Last year, the Liberal Democrats won the most council by-elections across the UK.
An honest and balanced partnership
As we enter 2026, local government faces a year of significant change.
Election delays damage public confidence
The past year has been unsettled for local government.