Early support to get ahead of homelessness
Like many councils across the UK, Chelmsford City Council faces rising homelessness and not enough social and affordable housing.
Improving early years education
When I first became a cabinet member, I attended the LGA’s enhanced children’s services training at Warwick and learned just how important the early years are.
Conference catchups
The LGA’s annual conference is always a wonderful opportunity to catch up with old political friends, make new ones, and grow our support and information networks to help in our work as councillors.
Transforming health and wellbeing
Moving power out of Westminster and back into our communities was a key manifesto pledge of this Labour Government, and the NHS 10 Year Health Plan for England does just that.
Road tax should be going to councils
National Highways maintains just 2 per cent of England’s roads, while our local authority highway departments maintain more than 90 per cent.
SEND system needs cross-party reform
Change is sorely needed for special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
Championing public services
It is an honour to be writing my first magazine article (no pun intended!) as the new LGA Independent Group Leader – and following the LGA’s annual conference in Liverpool, I want to reiterate my commitments as the new group leader.
Councils face difficult decisions
Spending Review delivers on some key LGA asks, but severe financial pressures remain
SEND override to continue as LG funding consultations published
A workaround allowing councils with responsibility for special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) to balance their books will continue after March to 2028, the Government has confirmed.