Boom in digital library usage
Libraries across some parts of the country have seen an increase in newly registered users of more than 600 per cent since lockdown measures were introduced, the LGA has reported.
news
Support for arts and culture
The LGA has joined forces with Arts Council England and other partners to ensure there is a joined-up approach across the sector to supporting culture through the COVID-19 crisis.
‘End care-health divide’
The coronavirus crisis proves the artificiality of the funding divide between the NHS and social care, according to a recent research note from the think tank Policy Exchange.
Flexibility needed on First Homes scheme
The Government has launched a consultation over its First Homes scheme, which proposes to cut the cost of some new homes by a third for first-time buyers.
‘No knife shop’ pledge
Retailers, including online businesses, need to stop selling knives by default to help tackle the knife-crime epidemic, the LGA has said.
Commercial investments ‘to generate income’
Some local authorities in England have invested an estimated £6.6 billion in buying commercial property over the past three years, mostly with the aim of generating a financial return, according to the National Audit Office.
Housing benefit boost
The local housing allowance (LHA) freeze has been reversed as part of the Chancellor’s £7 billion investment in the welfare system, aimed at protecting jobs and incomes during the coronavirus outbreak.
Skills gaps warning on immigration
Reform of the UK’s immigration system provides an opportunity to tackle skills gaps and workforce challenges in specific sectors, such as construction and social care, the LGA has said.
LGA: ‘Call up retired care workers’
As first was going to press, the LGA was calling on ministers to consider how they could help retired care workers who may want, or be able, to return to work.
Councils warn of rise in coronavirus-related scams
Self-isolating older and vulnerable residents are at risk of being exploited by strangers and cold callers posing as helpful neighbours in order to scam them, councils up and down the country have been warning.