Truth about Local Government

In this engaging episode, host Matt Masters sits down with Matthew Trewartha to explore strategies for unlocking pace, fostering trust in experts, and expediting plans to achieve better results. They delve into real-world examples, discuss the impact on team experiences, and reveal how these practices contribute to effective succession planning. Tune in for actionable insights and inspiring conversations!

In this thought-provoking episode, host Matt Masters sits down with the esteemed Professor Colin Copus to delve into the alarming rise of intimidation and abuse faced by councillors. With his extensive background in local government and political science, Professor Copus sheds light on the underlying factors contributing to this concerning trend. Together, they explore the tangible steps that councils, the government, and the public can take to foster a culture of respect and safety. From legislative reforms to community engagement strategies, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone invested in the integrity and well-being of our democratic institutions. Tune in to hear their insightful dialogue and learn what it takes to protect those who serve the public.

In a world brimming with political shifts, from the bustling election booths of India to the intense political arenas of the US and UK, and even amidst France’s unexpected General Election, the global populace is witnessing a whirlwind of change. This year alone, billions are casting their votes, shaping the future at every level of governance. But what does this mean at the local tier, where councils and commissioners are also feeling the pulse of the electorate?Introduction: Join us as we delve into the art of leadership amidst the ebb and flow of political landscapes with Matt Prosser, Chief Executive of Dorset Council and the esteemed President of SOLACE. With over three decades in Local Government, Matt brings a wealth of experience in steering organisations through the tumultuous seas of political transition, both locally and nationally.Key Questions:Navigating the Local Government Labyrinth: Matt shares insights from his tenure as CEX across various councils, revealing how overnight shifts from Conservative to Lib-Dem control have shaped his strategic approach.Central Government Chronicles: From engaging anecdotes with David Cameron to cross-party interactions, Matt discusses the nuances of working alongside national figures and central government and the importance of proactive engagement with political manifestos.Preparation is Key: Discover Matt’s strategies for preparing an organisation for political upheaval, emphasizing the significance of long-term relationships and a steadfast neutral stance.The Challenge of Balance: How does a CEX juggle the demands of being a confidant to all sides while fostering positive outcomes? Matt explores the complexities of this balancing act.SOLACE’s Support System: Learn about SOLACE’s initiatives in leadership development and mentorship, designed to bolster CEXs during times of political change.Personal Resilience: On a personal note, Matt reflects on maintaining positivity and resilience amidst the constant flux of political dynamics.Conclusion: As the political winds shift, the role of a Local Authority Chief Executive becomes ever more intricate. Tune in to uncover the secrets to effective leadership when the political ground is constantly moving beneath your feet.

In today’s episode, I sat down with Paul Woodcock, interim strategic regeneration, development, and place shaping advisor.Paul previously served as the Strategic Director of Regeneration and Environment at Rotherham Council. His responsibilities included overseeing economic development, environmental initiatives, and place-making strategies. During his tenure, he played a key role in shaping policies and projects that contributed to the borough’s growth and revitalisation.In this immensely interesting conversation Paul speaks about:· Economic Development and Industrial/Economic Strategy and what this could mean for Local Government and what are the opportunities.· How local authorities can put plans and strategies in place to grow the local economy and then how to implement these strategies.· The vital role of collaboration and the triple helix.· Finally, how to put these elements into a wider context, when creating beautiful places for local communities to enjoy. Specifically focusing on the importance of transport, residential, green spaces and culture & leisure in place making.

In this insightful episode host Matt Masters engages in a thought-provoking dialogue with Ian Billham, the esteemed Chair at the Community Safety Advisors Network. They delve into the multifaceted role of local authorities in fostering secure communities and explore the innovative strategies being implemented to address contemporary safety challenges. Ian shares his expert perspective on the collaborative efforts required to maintain public safety and the importance of community involvement in creating resilient neighborhoods. Join us as we uncover the behind-the-scenes actions and proactive measures that are shaping the future of community safety.Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the critical work done by local authorities and learn about the proactive solutions that are making a difference in communities across the nation.

In this episode host Matt Masters engages with the esteemed Ciarán Hayes, a veteran in Irish local government service with 42 years of dedicated experience. As the former Chief Executive of Sligo County Council and a current board member of both the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) and the National Oversight and Audit Commission (NOAC), Mr. Hayes brings a wealth of knowledge to the table.Together, they delve into the pivotal role local authorities play in spearheading climate initiatives. They discuss actionable strategies for mobilizing communities, the importance of integrating sustainable practices into urban planning, and how local governance can set the stage for impactful environmental policies.Listeners will gain insights into Mr. Hayes’ extensive experience in public service, exploring how his work with SEAI and NOAC aligns with his commitment to fostering sustainable energy solutions and transparent governance. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in how local action can lead to significant global progress in the fight against climate change.

Brand is so much more than a logo and the graphical support of an organisation. It is about the essence of what that organisation stands for, who they are and how they live that. Ta6, is a brand within Alliance Leisure, which Paul Woodford, Strategic Engagement Director leads.Today we talk with Paul about the power of brand in leisure, looking at global, venue and product within the brand proposition.Paul then shares the success stories of when this has worked.

In this episode, Simon Goacher - Partner at Weightmans LLP we delve into the critical role of governance within local authorities. With recent high-profile interventions and financial pressures leading to section 114 reports, the need for practical solutions has never been more urgent. We explore the systems and processes that provide essential checks and balances on decisions, emphasizing that these mechanisms can only succeed when anchored in a positive culture of governance. Join us as we discuss strategies, challenges, and success stories from the frontlines of local government.

Today we sat down with Dr Peter Eckersley who is an Associate Professor in Public Policy and Management at Nottingham Business School. His research focuses on central-local government relations, public policy, climate change, sustainability and public accountability. Peter is also Managing Editor of Local Government Studies and Co-Convenor of the UK Political Studies Association's Specialist Group on Local Politics.Alongside his post at NBS, Peter also works part-time at the Leibniz Institute for Research on Society and Space in Erkner (near Berlin), where he studies climate policy in German cities.Today we explored Peter’s article on “Structure, Agency, and Local Climate Governance: How Do Individual Actors Exploit Local Contexts to Shape Policymaking in Smaller Cities and Towns?” he co-produced with Wolfgang Haupt and Leonie Lauga.In this the authors explore the interplay between structural conditions and individual agency in local climate policymaking. This can be applied by local government to policy making around climate but is also much more broadly linked to policy development across local government.Here are the key points:Structural Conditions and Climate Action:Previous studies emphasize that structural factors significantly influence local climate policy. Factors such as population size, wealth, education levels, civil society engagement, and political dynamics impact a city’s ambition in climate mitigation and adaptation.Larger, wealthier cities with active civil society organizations and green parties tend to be climate “forerunners,” while smaller municipalities with older populations and weaker civil society engagement may lag behind in climate action.Role of Agency:The article highlights the role of individual agency in shaping climate-related policies. Despite challenging local conditions, active individuals within municipal administrations can drive ambitious climate policy.These “unusual suspects” or “ordinary cities” demonstrate that agency matters, even in less favorable contexts.Framing Policies for Local Support:The study draws on fieldwork in 11 German towns to show how municipal managers frame climate policies. Their framing strategies aim to gain local support for climate action.Socio-economic, demographic, and political conditions influence these framings, but individual agency remains crucial.Two-Dimensional Framework:The authors propose a two-dimensional framework for future research on structure and agency in local governance.They caution that studying this interplay can be challenging but essential for understanding effective policymaking.In summary, while structural conditions set the stage, individual actors play a vital role in shaping climate policies at the local level.

In this episode of our podcast, we sit down with Nicola Hallworth-Rudd, Head of Public Sector UK at Michael Page, to delve into the intricate challenges and innovative solutions in public sector recruitment. Nicola brings her extensive experience to the table, discussing the complexities of various organizational structures like CA, UA, and MBC, and how they can be perplexing for those outside the sector.Challenges Explored:The daunting message of austerity and financial constraints that make the public sector less appealing.Councils’ struggle to effectively communicate their mission and community support.The difficulty in attracting suitable talent for roles that are complex, broad, and high-pressure.The challenge of competing in a recruitment market dominated by the private sector’s deeper pockets and superior digital technology.The perception of councils being predominantly run by the white middle class, with website imagery reinforcing this view.Recruitment processes often prioritizing cost over quality, potentially overlooking candidates who could offer long-term savings.The issue of retention, with professionals leaving for less stressful, more flexible, and better-supported roles elsewhere.Solutions Discussed:Brand Amplification: Nicola emphasizes the importance of showcasing your brand as a window to potential applicants. She suggests creating a website with diverse imagery, using pen portraits and videos from various organization levels, ensuring inclusive language, and telling the positive stories of local community support and complex project delivery. Michael Page’s digital marketing team can craft a bespoke microsite to encapsulate all these elements.Accessing Talent: Leveraging a recruitment agency’s expertise in the public sector is crucial for spreading your message. Nicola advises utilizing digital marketing tools, LinkedIn data mining, experienced researchers to explore new markets, and recruitment consultants to tap into personal networks for referrals.Diverse Talent Acquisition: At Michael Page, the journey begins internally by fostering a diverse workforce. Collaborating with external agencies for up-to-date advice, providing mandatory inclusive recruitment training, and having an Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Consulting Team are key steps. This team, with lived experience of protected characteristics, works with partner organizations, runs diversity groups, reviews recruitment processes, and participates in recruitment panels to ensure inclusivity.Streamlined Recruitment Processes: Nicola outlines the need for expedited and sales-focused recruitment processes, including only critical actions, setting clear timelines, discussing council benefits, using efficient vetting suppliers, and ensuring quick offer processes. Continuous communication and a smooth onboarding experience are also highlighted.Join us as we uncover the nuances of public sector recruitment with Nicola Hallworth-Rudd and learn how to navigate its challenges with strategic solutions.

In this episode, Sarah Clein, who has over 30 years of experience working in the public sector and with small businesses, discusses the challenges faced by midlife women in this field.Let’s dive into the key questions and points covered:Who does Sarah Clein work with and why?Sarah collaborates with midlife women in the public sector. Her goal is to address their unique needs and empower them to thrive.What issues do midlife women face at this stage in life?Midlife women encounter various challenges, including navigating toxic work environments, managing multiple responsibilities, and coping with menopause.What happens to midlife women when they are not supported?Without proper support, midlife women may experience burnout, decreased job satisfaction, and compromised well-being.Why does supporting midlife women matter?Supporting midlife women benefits both individuals and organizations. It enhances productivity, retention, and overall workplace satisfaction.What does the data say about women in the public sector?The data highlights disparities in representation and opportunities for women. Understanding these trends is crucial for creating positive change.What do we know about the representation of women in local government?Women are often underrepresented in leadership roles within local government. Addressing this gap is essential for achieving gender equality.Why might women want to leave the public sector?Factors such as lack of support, limited career progression, and work-related stress can lead women to consider leaving the public sector.What do organizations need to do to support their midlife workforce?Organizations should prioritize flexible work arrangements, provide mentorship, and create a supportive environment for midlife women.You can listen to the full episode on The Knackered Women’s Club podcast or find more information about Sarah Clein’s work on Eventbrite.Research and data cited can be viewed on the below links.https://www.fawcettsociety.org.uk/news/new-data-shows-make-up-just-a-third-of-local-election-candidates-in-englandhttps://researchbriefings.files.parliament.uk/documents/SN06838/SN06838.pdfhttps://www.fawcettsociety.org.uk/Handlers/Download.ashx?IDMF=9bd9edd3-bd86-4317-81a1-32350bb72b15https://www.unison.org.uk/news/2024/02/women-in-the-uks-public-services-repeatedly-denied-flexible-work-requests/https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm5803/cmselect/cmwomeq/91/report.html#heading-2

This episode delves into Stockport’s place shaping journey, with Paul Richards, Director of Development and Regeneration, Stockport Council and Chief Executive, Stockport Mayoral Development Corporation. Stockport is transforming itself into an attractive place to live, work, and connect, with ambitious investments in heritage buildings, architecture, and green spaces. The challenge of effective place shaping is a critical part of the council’s role, and Stockport’s journey exemplifies this.

In this episode, Jim Savege, Chief Executive in Aberdeenshire Council and I explore how communities can thrive by leveraging external events to build resilience, foster partnerships, and create lasting positive change. Tune in as we discuss inspiring stories, practical strategies, and the power of collective action.

.Great to sit down with Rowan Cole, Director of Coalface Engagement, to discuss the importance of planning in communications and engagement in planning.Today Rowan answered the following questions:How does effective communication improve the reception of Local Plans when presented to local communities?What are some common challenges local governments face in engaging with their communities on Planning matters?How does communications and engagement protect Council's reputation in the face of large scale private development proposals?What role does technology play in enhancing communication and engagement on planning matters?What emerging trends or practices should local governments be aware of to improve their engagement strategies?Thank you to our sponsors RPNA, who drive sustainable transformation by combining innovative thinking, established methodology, and boundless enthusiasm to unlock an organisation's potential and deliver lasting change.

Ian Knowles, the Chief Executive Officer at West Lindsey District Council, has been instrumental in shaping the council’s vision and driving positive change. Today we discussed the following questions: 1 – How does your approach to Digital Strategy differ from what you have done in the past?2 – How have you ensured that your system implementation has been successful?3 – How does your Executive Business Plan make a difference?4 – What did you do differently in your approach to ex RAF Scampton? Under Ian’s leadership, West Lindsey District Council has established a clear strategic framework. This framework focuses on three key themes: "our council, our people, and our place". Ian Knowles embodies the spirit of transformation, and his commitment to West Lindsey District Council’s success is evident. His leadership ensures that the council remains passionate, proactive, open, and honest in serving its community. In their recently adopted Digital ICT Vision, West Lindsey District Council aims to enable modern, high-quality services that meet the needs of both customers and staff. Their vision focuses on creating a customer-focused council through people-led change, operating in a thriving digital environment. The council’s approach includes leveraging Microsoft Office corporate tools, SugarCRM, and an increasing use of robotic process automation, AI, and integrations. This forward-thinking approach sets them apart from traditional digital strategies, as they prioritize adaptability and openness to opportunities in the modern digital world. Overall, West Lindsey District Council’s commitment to digital transformation is commendable, and it’s exciting to see how their efforts will continue to benefit their community! Thank you to our sponsors Local Partnerships LLP. Local Partnerships is an in-house public sector consultancy jointly owned by the LGA, HM Treasury and Welsh Government. We work solely for central government departments, the Welsh Government, councils and combined authorities.Local Partnerships delivers value and efficacy for the public purse. As a key interface between local and central government, we provide expert advice and practical resources alongside project and programme delivery support, enabling public services to thrive.Whether supporting and accelerating the delivery of major infrastructure, tackling climate challenges through waste efficiency and renewable energy propositions through to wider place-making initiatives, we help transform services across the public sector ecosystem.

Today we sat down with Jackie Weaver, Chief Officer at Cheshire Association of Local Councils. Jackie shot to stardom in 2021, when she became a global superstar after she was called in to moderate a Handforth Parish Council Zoom meeting in the absence of the clerk. Greeted with difficult parish councillors, one famously declaring “you have no authority here Jackie Weaver.”The viral video provided an opportunity to shine a light on parish and town councils and the important role they provide.Today we discussed navigating civic apathy: unravelling behaviour Challenges affecting Local Government.A honest conversation which had the following key takeaways:1) The education system needs to provide children with an understanding as to how democracy works at a local level2) Bad behaviour needs to be called and not tolerated straight away.3) We need a new label to describe the 25-45 year old bracket, whom we are not attempting to engage with in local government, the term “young people” can be misleading as it normally draws the listener to the 16-20 year old bracket.

In this episode, we sit down with Mark Dickens, the Assistant Director Planning & Building Control at Manchester City Council. Mark shares insights into the critical role of building control within the city, emphasizing why it’s an exciting and impactful career path. At present there are two exciting vacancies within the Building Control Team. One leading the entire building control function, and one managing one of the two teams. Mark talked with passion why Manchester is a brilliant place to work and why anyone working in Building Control should look at the opportunities within Manchester.

Today I sat down with the Founder of The Balance Collective, Clara Wilcox to discuss the actions both employees and employers can take so that parents can have a positive return to work.We covered in our conversation:What issues do you find that parents have when they return to work?How do parents feel about returning?How does the current cost of living crisis impact parents’ choices?What is the best practice?Why it’s important to have equity for return-to-work support – considering those who have breaks for bereavement, other caring responsibility, health needs.What you can do to support parents before they return (and before they leave!)The importance of a return-to-work induction and how to plan it.Clara Wilcox can be reached at [email protected] you to RPNA for their continued support.

Suzanne Malcolm is a passionate Place professional, who is currently Deputy Chief Executive - Place at South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils.Suzanne talked through the challenges of delivering net zero in local government,We discussed how local government has stepped up to the challenge of reducing carbon from its own operations, despite the difficulties and delays in central government.Finally, we looked to the future and to the significant challenges councils must overcome in order to get to net zero as councils and as places.

Today we sat down with Colin Copus to discuss the role of the Councillor; and how this is changed and how there is arguably insufficient resource available to Councilors. We then talked through the piece of work that Colin wrote for the LGiU a ‘manifesto for councillors’ https://lgiu.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/A-Manifesto-for-Councillors-Colin-Copus-paper.pdf

Abigail Witting leads on the wellness strategy for South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils, as their People and Culture Manager. Todays episode is all about providing an insight the practical steps you can take to create and maintain a culture of wellness. We also explored the importance of wellness and the consequences. A brave and honest insight that Abigail provided. Thank you to Local Partnerships LLP for their ongoing support of the podcast and platform.

Always a pleasure to sit down with Tim Jenkins, our Culture and Heritage Specialist Advisor. Today Tim helped us break down how to secure external funding. Specifically we discussed: scoping the project, choosing the right funder, complete the application and project implementation and evaluation.

Beth Horsley, is a Partner in Page Executive, specialising in permanent and interim technology recruitment. We sat down to discuss the challenges and solutions to the hunt for interim and permanent talent in IT in the public sector.

Sitting down with Chief Executive of Test Valley Borough Council, Andy Ferrier, we discussed "how to promote and protect democracy in local government" in this honest and interesting conversation that provides constructive advice to leaders throughout the sector on this important topic.

Today I sat down with Sam Fox, a Chartered Town Planner with 30 years’ experience of working in local government, currently providing consultancy and interim services for the public sector.Sam has extensive knowledge of how local government operates, which provides him with invaluable insights into how to run services, and how to successfully secure investment and grant funding within the sector.Today we discussed:“How to balance the need to encourage inward investment with the constraints of the planning system to deliver effective place-shaping.”The solution is bringing these competing roles within local government and central government together. This is something Sam has been grappling with throughout his 30 year career and he draws on some examples of this, from the local to the national level.The key topics we cover in our discussion are:· Working positively with innovators· The importance of holding onto what is right but being flexible if change is needed.· Strong local leadership is key· The importance of micro and small businesses· Nationally significant projects – the importance of team work - from No 10 to the local level!

Victoria Camp is Director - Climate at Local Partnership LLP. We are exploring solutions to the challenges that face parents who work. We discussed:Is work/life balance possible? How do you find your voice as a new parent? Victoria's career journey and how Local Partnerships and local government support families (and also some lessons learned) - when people are more important than policy! Playing to your strengths as part of many teams - team family, team work, and team YOU. Let's talk about guilt.....An interesting and highly relevant episode, as many of us wear more than one hat.

Simon Fletcher wants to see a disruptor mentality utilised in local government to provide fresh new solutions to the problems the sector is facing. We explored the need for continual investment in culture as a starting point. The need to try a new approach when a solution previously utilised no longer works and then the need for the regional and national inter council collaboration to push projects and sector improvement plans forwards.

Great to sit down with Colin Copus, to discuss a new financial model for local government in the UK: a reflection on the sorts of financial and taxation powers commonplace for local government overseas, but lacking here. Is it time for a revolution of local government finances?

Today we sat down with Alex and Louise Jelley, who are Directors at Alpine Planning Ltd. We discussed how local authorities can properly resource planning functions to deliver on their large scale development and regeneration programs.The key points we covered were:The importance of political buy-in, and how to get itProactivity. Looking for solutions not problems. Problems are easy to identify. Getting over hurdles and finding answers is the tricky bitDedicated resource to specific projectsExternal support and funding (TCPA New Communities Group, for instance)Use of consultants – planning, landscape architects, transport, legalPlanning Performance Agreements - mean the Council isn't paying over and above for consultants. It washes its own face! It can cover most of if not all of the consultant fee to work on the scheme and this means that council money can go on other things such as grow your own planners, training for newly qualified staff etc. Win – winRegular update meetings with applicant so they feel advised and in the knowAvailable by phone or email every dayTrust between council and consultant is key. Need to build reputation and relationships. Consultants can help improve performance and provide supportAbility for planning officers within the Council to focus on other priorities. The council tells us what they wantCouncils get what they pay for in terms of experience and the ability to deal with majors. Major apps need specifically experienced planners. Skills are learned over years not monthsTalk about successes – make sure the wider community understands the infrastructure being delivered as a result and doesn’t just see road works and lost fields

Today we sat down with Polly Cziok, Executive Director, Change and Innovation at the London Borough of Merton.We discussed organisational challenge and the values that under pin this, specifically looking at value retention, culture change and ED&I integration.We then explored the true meaning and purpose of transformation and the solutions to the challenges affecting recruitment into the local government sector.I admire the honesty and insightful nature of Polly’s answer.Thank you to our sponsors RPNA, for supporting the podcast.

Today we sat down with Martin Walker, Senior Director Place, Local Partnership LLP to discuss: ‘In the midst of a housing crisis, and facing severe financial pressures, how can councils best respond to these challenges in their areas?’Our conversation explored three broad areas:Considering options to help manage the spiralling demand (and therefore cost) of temporary accommodation in their areas, through measures to boost affordable housingReviewing progress made by councils’ own delivery vehicles which have been set up to bring about housing delivery in their areasCouncils’ own delivery programmes for housing, through their Housing Revenue Accounts (which for many councils means considering whether to reopen them)Local Partnerships have created some great free tools for local authority leaders, links of which are below. Temporary Accommodation Model: Temporary accommodation model - Local PartnershipsHousing Delivery Vehicle Toolkit: Housing Delivery Vehicles Toolkit (localpartnerships.gov.uk)Prioritising Housing Pipelines Toolkit: Prioritising housing pipelines - Local Partnerships

I sat down today with Charmaine Leech, Senior Director, from Risk, Compliance and Governance Consulting Ltd to answer one important question."How do you provide robust assurance of ongoing sustainability of a local government against their budget?"

Chris Perry is a former Director of Social Services for South Glamorgan County Council, a former Non-Executive Director of the Winchester and Eastleigh Healthcare NHS Trust and a former Director of Age Concern Hampshire.Chris wrote an article on how as a society and as a local government sector if we tackle income inequality and poverty to reduce pressure on the NHS.

Thoroughly enjoyed sitting down with Mark Tweedie - Managing Director Brimhams Active. We discussed why now is the need to pivot to active wellebeing. Mark is an accomplished executive level leader with over 25 years experience in the education, sport and leisure industry. During the last decade of his career he has specialised in organisational transformation to increase efficiency and profitability, whilst redesigning services to increase impact across the domains of health, education, employability and social services.

.Sarah Longlands is the Chief Executive of Centre for Local Economic Strategies. Sarah is an expert in regional and local economic development and argues for economic and social justice and the creation of places which enable people to live good lives. Her knowledge and passion for the sector is inspiring and she talked me through the need to re defining the narrative around local government and the need for economic strategies to focus on creating inclusive economies rather than just growth.

Great to sit down with Mark Smith, Chief Executive of Chippenham Town Council. At the core of our conversation was advice to local government leaders on the steps to provide stability as a leader and the positive outcomes that flow from this.

James Hewings is a father, a property professional working for Surrey County Council and is studying for job related qualifications. He is a busy man and being a good father and good employee are two top priorities. Today we discussed what employees and employers can do to help support parents and get the best out of them.

Culture and heritage can sometimes be an after thought for local authorities; but, it is imperative that you get a strategy in place. Today we sat down with Dr Tim Jenkins, a culture & heritage advisor who supports local authorities define and then realise their culture and heritage ambitions. We discussed: 1. The Future of Local Authority Museums(Legislation, Funding, Societal Cohesion, Place-shaping & Identity, Interpretation of Collection)2. Managing & Conserving Public Heritage (Managing Historic Assets, Ownership, Planning Policy, Physical and Intellectual Access, Relationships with National Bodies)3. Importance of a Cohesive Strategy(Making the tough decisions - Asset or Liability, Disposals in best interest of Historic Asset, Place Shaping and Heritage-led Regeneration)

Today we hosted the Director of Engagement from Socitm, David Ogden. We discussed the Public sector digital trends 2024, its implications and the position that Socitm is taking in the sector.

With so many local authorities needing to restructure to achieve cost savings, I spoke with Sarah Hayward a highly experienced Director of Change and Improvement about advice she would give to authorities going through this transition. The conversation covers, how to identify low hanging fruit, the importance of honesty and integrity, having evidence based outcomes in your financial decision making and the importance of using and collecting data to support a clearly articulate objective and mission statement.

Great to sit down with Richard Twelvetrees, Experience & Value Enablement Director, from de Novo Solutions. We explored how local authorities can use brainstorming collaboration to maximise their digital investment and get continued value from their digital transformation journey. Such an important topic.

Today I sat down with Rich Hanrahan, Co Founder of RPNA, who helps leaders develop high performing teams, lead more effectively and create unstoppable momentum. We discussed the problem, around the war for talent - how to attract and retain the best people. One of the key levers that councils can utilise is flexible working arrangements. Rich talked through how we can make flexibility work for employer and employee. Our conversations answers the following questions:What do we mean by flexibility in employment?What’s happening right now in terms of attitudes to flexible working?How does flexibility sit in today’s world of work?So where are we today?And what is the benefit to employeesHow does this impact the employee / employer relationship?And are there benefits to employee / employer relationship of introducing greater flexibility?So what should we be thinking about when it comes to flexibility?What gets in the way of introducing flexibility?SO how should we consider and approach introducing more flexibility?If you want to reach out to Rich - his email is: [email protected]

SaveTheHighStreet.org launched in August 2016 with the the release of a Manifesto that outlined a new vision for the high street and how we achieve it together.Today, SaveTheHighStreet.org is led by a passionate dedicated team, an Advisory Board of 200+ high street businesses and industry experts, a fast-growing community of Local Champions and dozens of other partners across both public and private sectors. Together they have supported over 25,000 local businesses in the U.K. and we’re just getting started.They focused their conversations on the need to work with the next generation of retailers, in light of diminishing occupational demand from the national multiple retail chains.Great to sit down with Alex Schlagman, Co Founder of Savethehighstreet.org and Andrew McDonald, retail property expert, where we discussed:How to fix our high streets in light of fewer larger-brand retail requirements ;and how the public and private sector can work in partnership to address the vacancy challenges in our town centres?Also, great to launch our partnership with Rich Hanrahan and RPNA. RPNA work with you to design, build and deliver leadership, wellbeing and transformation programmes that are people centred, digitally enabled and developed for the future of public service provision. They are a fantastic partner with public sector organisations across the UK.

Join us in this episode of Truth about local government, as we delve into the intricacies of the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) with Damien Dacey - Interim Director of Devolution. As one of the UK's pivotal regions, the East Midlands is undergoing transformative changes, and understanding the role and impact of the EMCCA is essential.In this episode, we uncover the following:What is the East Midlands Combined County Authority?Where are you now on bringing devolution to the East Midlands?What can devolution offer local government trying to deliver growth/create jobs alongside all the on-demand statutory services?You've worked on devolution in other parts of the country. What is distinct/different about the EM experience so far?What's your sense about the potential for the people/communities/business that live the area? How do you see the agenda developing and over what timeframe?You've just spent 10 years working on national policy in Whitehall, latterly running the team that worked on delivering the LU White Paper and negotiating new devolution deals including the one you're working on now in the EM. What has been your experience in making the move out of Whitehall into local government?

Ben is a highly regarded local government executive director, management consultant, non-exec director and poacher/gamekeeper with almost 40 years public services experience. Throughout Ben’s substantive and consulting career he has a successful track record of managing, leading, and transforming services and commercial ventures across People, Place and Corporate Services, often in highly political and unionised environments. A bright, creative thinker, consultative and facilitative by nature, Ben is a solutions driven and outcome focussed completer-finisher. Ben’s commercial and technical expertise and acumen is underpinned by a mixed tool kit approach to change coupled with strong governance which Ben ultilises to horizon scan and mitigate risk. Ben’s innate ability to articulate viable, easy to understand solutions and outcomes to stakeholders ensures that officers, organisations, and members are brought on the transformation journey, business benefits are realised, and more robust, financially viable and sustainable public services are achieved, delivering better outcomes for all.Today we discussed, how that in some situations, a problem facing councils is that they have trading companies but realise they’re not as well equipped to manage them as they want to, or should be. Segments:How did this come about?What are typical problems?What are the things many councils didn’t know they needed to prepare for?What steps can councils take to overcome these challenges?

I sat down with Helen McGrath, Executive DIrector of Policy and Governance at the LLG (Lawyers in Local Government). We discussed the need for robustness with councils code of conduct, particularly on the use of council address for political purposes.We then explored how this can be extended by reference to cllr addresses and the increase in abuse against them.

Recruitment and retention are two of the largest challenges facing the local authority space. With so much spend on interim staff, councils utilise MSP (managed service providers) to deliver a cost effective and trackable recruitment service. For any council with an MSP, re tendering or considering using an MSP, finding a cost effective solution, that meets your financial, social and organisational requirement is extremely challenging. Today we have to experts from Page Group, Dale Hampshire - Senior Business Development Director and Alan Griffin - Account Director to talk through Page’s offering in the local government space, providing a fresh solution to the market. They explored how to get the most from your recruitment managed service provider.

In our second part with the eminent Colin Copus, we discussed the constitutional standing and status of local government. We explored why we need to emphasise the ‘government’ in local government more – the sorts of freedoms, powers and autonomy that is commonplace to local government across the globe, but lacking here and why.

Great to sit down with Lauren Sadler, who is a health and social care transformation consultant, exploring how we can achieve better integration between local authorities and the NHS. We explored the challenges and the solutions in a compact, but highly productive conversation. If you start with the why, instead of the governance, the momentum can help overcome the considerable challenges to integration.

Today Alison and I explored how by utilising the levers of flexible working and placemaking we can tackle inequality within society.