More to do on fire service culture
The fire and rescue sector has made some good progress nationally but government needs to press ahead with reforms, according to the chief inspector of fire and rescue services.
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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
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.
New £3.6m fund for care leavers
Local programmes in England offering tailored support to young care-experienced adults are being supported by a new £3.6 million fund.
Oflog’s independence ‘key to success’
The Office for Local Government’s (Oflog) success depends on it being both independent, and seen to be independent, the LGA has told MPs.
Guidance needed to support smoking ban – LGA
The LGA has called for sufficient lead-in time and guidance to be provided ahead of legislation on smoking and vaping coming into force, so that councils, retailers and others understand their new obligations and can prepare accordingly.
Updated improvement support for councils
New, enhanced improvement tools and a wider range of councillor-focused transformation support are among the additional offers in the LGA’s 2024/25 Sector Support programme.
Sure Start ‘improved GCSE results’
New research has shown that an early years support programme for families improved GCSE results and reduced the need for additional support for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
Social cohesion review warns of ‘significant challenges’
An independent review by Dame Sara Khan into social cohesion and resilience has warned of “significant challenges” that impact the wellbeing of our democracy, threatening to undermine the social fabric of the country.
Youth homelessness pressures
Councils in England face a £332 million shortfall in funding to tackle youth homelessness, the charity Centrepoint has claimed.