first magazine for councillors - the magazine for local government

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Pathways to devolution

by Councillor Louise Gittins

The LGA is increasing its support to its members.

Local government ‘remains on life support’

by Councillor Joe Harris

The first Labour Government Budget since 2009 has met with a mixed response among Liberal Democrats in local authorities.

montage of photos representing council services, including medic administering a covid vaccination and close-up of woman vaping (public health), residents clearing up streets after summer 2024 far-right disturbances (community safety), homeless person at bottom of steps in pedestrian subway, a local bus driving past a bus stop, a teacher working with a young pupil with Down Syndrome, and a care worker with tablet discussing care arrangements with an older woman

Challenge and change

by Councillor Louise Gittins

Local government’s resilience and agility will see us through 2025.

photo of LGA chair, group leaders and group representatives holding and standing in front of ‘Debate Not Hate’ placards and the LGA’s conference hub

Civility in public life

by The Editorial Team

New protections for councillors announced.

Budget delivers extra bill for employers

by Councillor Marianne Overton MBE

It was fantastic to meet so many of you at the LGA’s annual conference, with a record number of Independent Group members attending.

Funding for UAS children

by The Editorial Team

The Home Office has ended key funding incentives for councils receiving unaccompanied asylum-seeking (UAS) children through the National Transfer Scheme.

pic: photos of rectangular, triangular and tree-shaped 3D blocks with a hand moving them around plans for new housing; and photo of rows of square blocks with triangular roofs

Building blocks

by The Editorial Team

The Government has revised its planning policies for England.

montage of council and other buildings lit up blue to mark National Care Leavers’ Week

Caring for care leavers

by Councillor Louise Gittins

National Care Leavers’ Week finished earlier this month, with councils around the country lighting up civic buildings in blue in support and recognition of their care leavers.