first magazine for councillors - the magazine for local government

Young toddler with a toy stethascope and using it on a stuffed toy

Child harm cases rise by more than a quarter

Serious child-related incidents reported by councils have risen by more than a quarter during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to LGA analysis of latest figures.

‘Rocket boost’ in funding needed to tackle children’s mental health

by The Editorial Team

Damage to children’s mental health caused by the coronavirus crisis could last for years without a “rocket boost in funding” for children’s mental health services, the Children’s Commissioner for England has warned.

Stepping up on levelling up

by The Editorial Team

The Government has renewed its commitment to levelling up as part of the recovery from the pandemic, with new announcements focusing on better access to high-quality education, improved infrastructure in town centres, and more public sector jobs outside of London.

Cartoon man and a woman watering and repairing the earth (coloured green)

Tackling the climate emergency

by Councillor Ann Newton

Much has been written, and declarations made, about the urgent need to tackle climate change. As local councils, we need to take this further by producing and delivering measurable action plans.

Changes to Right to Buy

by Councillor James Jamieson

The Government has announced a package of reforms to the Right to Buy scheme, in what is a significant lobbying success for the LGA, following years of campaigning.

Two women sat on the floor with their young babies crawling toward the camera.

Fresh vision for early years

by The Editorial Team

Seamless support and a ‘welcoming hub’ for families are among new proposals for ensuring babies and young children get the best possible start to life.