first magazine for councillors - the magazine for local government

LGA Annual Conference cancelled

As the June edition of first was going to press, the LGA Board was meeting to discuss whether the organisation’s annual conference will be rescheduled.

Watchdog warnings on biodiversity scheme

by The Editorial Team

A new scheme that requires developers to boost nature has been launched without having all the elements in place to deliver it, the National Audit Office (NAO) has warned.

close-up of someone’s hand resting on another’s shoulder, comfortingly, during a group therapy session

From harm to hope

by Councillor David Fothergill

Reviewing progress on the national drugs plan.

photo of close-up of female apprentice wearing safety glasses and gloves, and looking through a fixed drill point; photo of blurred vehicles on a busy stretch of motorway at sunset

The changing face of devolution

by The Editorial Team

The number of combined and county authorities is increasing.

Ensuring effective adoption services

by Councillor Louise Gittins

There has recently been significant focus on how councils can ensure the right homes for children in their care, as well as how kinship arrangements can be strengthened to help more children stay safely with their wider families.