No.639 September 2019 www.local.gov.uk

the magazine for local government

Spending Round

“With nancial certainty, councils can be depended upon to deliver even better outcomes for our residents”

Cllr James Jamieson, LGA Chairman 9 10 15 23

Party gatherings Housing advisers Youth movement The LGA at the Building on the Young people autumn party success of sector-led shaping local conferences improvement democracy

LGA FIRST 639 September19 pp01 Cover.indd 1 16/08/2019 13:25  BOURNEMOUTH  NOVEMBER

Vital to councillors, directors, senior officers, directors of public health, policy makers and service managers as well as organisations with responsibilities for children and adults in the statutory, voluntary and private sectors, the conference will include a mix of keynote and ministerial addresses as well as plenary sessions by expert representatives from the adult, children and education sectors.

There will also be opportunities to participate in a wide range of workshops and networking sessions. In addition, delegates will be able to visit the exhibition and speak with suppliers and providers of relevant services. ncasc1

Confirmed speakers include The Rt Hon Matt Hancock MP Secretary of State for Health and Social Care

Caroline Dinenage MP Minister of State for Care

Amanda Spielman Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector, Ofsted

Book your place at www.ncasc.info

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31.12LGA first FIRST NCAS 639 2019 September19 half_AND_full pp2-3 page Contents.indd advert_v05.indd 2 2 31/07/201916/08/2019 09:4913:26 Investingxxxxx in councils contents

he announcement that Ta one-year Spending Round will take place in news 13 Liberal Democrats in comment September provides some 4 Brexit updates Bournemouth 25 Council housing funding certainty for local  Loan sharks 15 Housing advisers 26 LGA chairman and government, and the LGA is making the case to ministers 5 Spending Round 16 Leadership group leaders development BOURNEMOUTH  NOVEMBER for investing in councils (see p9). Towns funding We will also be reiterating our call for a Improving New minister 18 new localism settlement, including an communications English Devolution Bill and Local Government 6 NHS funding Vital to councillors, directors, senior officers, directors Finance Bill, at the party conferences Handling complaints this autumn (p10). And we have a preview of public health, policy makers and service managers of the Liberal Democrat conference in Ill-health prevention 29 as well as organisations with responsibilities for Bournemouth (p13). 7 Tombstoning risks Elsewhere in this month’s rst, we take a children and adults in the statutory, voluntary and Serious youth look at the LGA’s sector-led improvement private sectors, the conference will include a mix of o er – including our Housing Advisers violence keynote and ministerial addresses as well as plenary Programme (p15), Next Generation leadership Mobile blackouts sessions by expert representatives from the adult, scheme (p16), communications self- improvement tool (p18), and Productivity children and education sectors. Experts Programme (p19). There are also features on supporting the There will also be opportunities to participate in a health of homeless people (p21) and on our wide range of workshops and networking sessions. councillor licensing handbook (p22). Our lead comment is on the lessons for In addition, delegates will be able to visit the exhibition the future from 100 years of council house and speak with suppliers and providers of relevant building (p25), and we take a look at our work services. in Parliament on devolution (p29). ncasc1 You can view all the stories in this and other recent editions of rst on our revamped © GETTY 10 Confirmed speakers include website at www.local.gov.uk/ rst, where you can also sign up for the rst e-bulletin. The Rt Hon Matt Hancock MP Cllr James Jamieson is LGA Chairman Secretary of State for Health and Social Care 5 Editor Karen Thornton Design & print CPL www.cpl.co.uk Caroline Dinenage MP Advertising [email protected] Minister of State for Care Write to rst: Local Government Association 25 18 Smith Square, London SW1P 3HZ Amanda Spielman Email [email protected] Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector, Ofsted Tel editorial 020 7664 3294 Tel advertising 01223 378 042 Photography Getty Images and iStock.com unless otherwise stated.

Circulation 17,900 (August 2019) rst is published online at www.local.gov.uk/ rst at Book your place at www.ncasc.info least two days before the magazine. To unsubscribe email [email protected]

The inclusion of an advert or insert in rst does not imply endorsement by the LGA of any product, event or service. Contributors’ 31 views are their own and do not necessarily regulars re ect the opinions or policies of the LGA. 19 Productivity experts 9 21 Health for the 8 Letters features homeless 29 Parliament – devolution 9 Investing in councils 22 Licensing handbook 30 Councillor – health 10 The LGA at the party 23 Listening to young scrutiny conferences people 31 Local elections

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31.12 first NCAS 2019 half_AND_full page advert_v05.indd 2 31/07/2019 09:49 LGA FIRST 639 September19 pp2-3 Contents.indd 3 16/08/2019 15:14 news New funding for ‘Tougher sentences Brexit preparations for loan sharks’

ebt enquiries have hit a record high, with D12,652 people a week seeking help for problem debt across the UK – the equivalent of one person every 48 seconds. The LGA is urging people struggling to make ends meet to avoid loan sharks, and is calling for tougher sentences for illegal money lenders charging exorbitant interest rates on loans. Despite signi cant pressures on their budgets, councils are determined to help people with debt worries. Councils have supported several recent prosecutions of loan sharks who target the most vulnerable and typically use intimidation to enforce repayments. These cases include illegal loans with interest rates of 100 per cent, although criminals charging interest rates of 1,000 per cent have also been previously convicted. The Government has announced £20 million play and that more resources are needed for Anyone experiencing money problems of funding to help councils prepare for Brexit their Brexit preparations. This funding will help should contact local debt charities, which on 31 October – half of it additional to the councils continue to co-ordinate their e orts. work closely with councils to provide free £58 million announced in January. “With councils already facing a funding impartial advice and develop better nancial Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick gap of more than £3 billion in 2019/20 it is support for households with debt and has asked each council to designate a Brexit more important now than ever that councils repayment worries. lead to work with central government and receive the resources they need.” Small loans from community local stakeholders to plan for leaving the EU. Cllr Bentley added: “Councils are already development nancial institutions and the Most councils already have one. taking a lead on preparations for Brexit and credit union sector also o er safer and more The funding is expected to support a range have been working tirelessly to ensure their a ordable ways to borrow money. of activity including communications, training communities and businesses are as prepared Cllr Morris Bright, Vice-Chairman of the and the recruitment of sta . As rst was going to as they can be given the uncertainty LGA’s Safer and Stronger Communities Board, press, more details were due to be announced surrounding the process. said: “We know many people are struggling about how the funding will be distributed. ”Brexit will a ect local areas in di erent to make ends meet, but loan sharks should The LGA is working closely with the ways, and Brexit preparations must re ect never be used. Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local local circumstances. Local leaders are best “Illegal money lenders are bullies who Government on Brexit preparations, and Mr placed to ensure preparations are directed charge astronomical interest rates and subject Jenrick has hosted a webinar with council where there is most need. their victims to intimidation and violence leaders and chief executives. ”There are information and advice gaps when they often struggle to repay their loans Cllr Kevin Bentley, Chairman of the LGA’s that councils are facing that need to be met at rates they simply can’t a ord. Brexit Taskforce, wrote to council leaders by the Government. In the meantime, we will “There are much better, safer and cheaper and chief executives immediately after the continue to work with councils to identify ways people can manage their money.” £20 million announcement to detail the work the issues that need to be addressed at a He added: “With councils’ budgets under going on. national level to ensure that councils are as signi cant pressure, the Government needs He said: “The Government has listened to prepared as they can be.” to ensure local authorities have the necessary our calls recognising the central role councils ● See www.local.gov.uk/brexit funding to support those in need.”

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LGA FIRST 639 September19 pp4-5 News.indd 4 16/08/2019 13:26 One-year Spending Cash and devo boost for towns Round announced he Prime Minister has committed Tmore than £1.3 billion of extra funding The Government has con rmed that a full to support 100 towns across England and three-year Spending Review will be help improve transport, broadband and delayed until 2020, with a one-year ‘fast cultural infrastructure. track’ Spending Round to be completed Boris Johnson pledged “to give in September. greater powers to councils’ leaders and Chancellor Sajid Javid said the move to communities” and “to level up the would provide funding certainty for public powers o ered to mayors so that more services in the coming nancial year (2020/21) people bene t from the kind of local and help “clear the ground ahead of Brexit”. government structures seen in London Cllr James Jamieson, LGA Chairman, and Manchester”. said the Spending Round will need to make He added that more communities securing the sustainability of local services would have “a greater say over changes to the top priority, con rm the continuation of transport, housing, public services and funding streams such as the Better Care Fund, infrastructure that will bene t their areas and meet growing demand for services. and drive local growth”. He said: “Councils urgently need some certainty about how local services will disabled, protect children, prevent and reduce be funded next year as they begin their homelessness and protect the array of other budget-setting process, so we are pleased valued local services which make such a that the announced Spending Round will be di erence to communities and people’s lives.” completed in September. The LGA is working closely with “Vital local services provided by councils government to illustrate the nancial face a funding gap of more than £5 billion pressures facing local government and to next year, rising to £8 billion by 2025. demonstrate the value of councils’ activities, “Only with the right funding and powers as part of its #CouncilsCan campaign (see can councils meet their legal duties to provide www.local.gov.uk/councils-can and rst 638). digni ed care for people who are elderly or ● Investing in councils, see p9

Cllr James Jamieson, LGA Chairman, said: “We support the measures to First ministerial visit boost cities, towns and regions – this is good news for local communities and businesses seeking to improve their prospects. “It recognises that democratically elected local councils have a key role to play in delivering better transport links, digital connectivity, housing, and all the important infrastructure like parks and libraries that creates strong communities and economies. “The Prime Minister has rightly acknowledged the need to bring decision-making closer to local people. It is vital that communities in all parts of

© LGA the country have access to the bene ts of devolution. When councils have the he rst o cial engagement of the new to be coming here to the LGA to meet freedom and funding to make local Tcommunities secretary was a meeting with Cllr Jamieson, Chief Executive Mark Lloyd decisions, there is clear and signi cant the LGA’s chairman and chief executive. and their team, to discuss how we can work evidence that outcomes improve and the Cllr James Jamieson, LGA Chairman, productively together in the days and weeks country gets better value for money. pictured (right) with Robert Jenrick MP at the to come as we prepare to leave the EU on “We look forward to working with the LGA’s o ce in London, said that he was looking the 31 October – and what we can do Prime Minister on how devolution to forward to working with him on the key issues together to ensure that local government those areas outside our major cities can and opportunities that lie ahead. delivers great quality public services that deliver great communities and improve Mr Jenrick, the former Exchequer Secretary matter to all of us.” the lives of residents. Councils are at the to the Treasury, said: “I wanted my rst meeting Mr Jenrick tweeted afterwards about his heart of their communities and are best as Secretary of State, immediately after Prime “respect for and commitment to all who serve positioned to deliver.” Minister Boris Johnson’s rst Cabinet meeting, in local government across the country”.

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LGA FIRST 639 September19 pp4-5 News.indd 5 16/08/2019 15:13 Councils ‘recognising when things go wrong’ Councils accepted and put in place Improvement and Innovation Board, said: recommendations for improving services “Councils are one of the most trusted parts and remedying personal injustice in of the public sector, with this report showing 99.4 per cent of cases where residents they accepted 99.4 per cent of Ombudsman complained to the Ombudsman last year. recommendations to resolve complaints. Michael King, the Local Government “The report also demonstrates councils’ and Social Care Ombudsman, said the openness to Ombudsman recommendations, high acceptance rate showed the sector with an increase of cases where authorities recognises and is willing to put things right have o ered a suitable remedy during the when they go wrong. local complaints process. The Ombudsman’s annual report reveals “However, increased demand on council that it registered 16,889 enquiries and services and ongoing central government complaints about councils in 2018/19, more funding cuts are combining to push councils than a third of which were about education to the limit. and children’s services or adult social care. “With councils facing an overall funding £1.8bn for NHS His o ce carried out 4,232 detailed gap of £8 billion by 2025, it is vital the Prime investigations, upholding 58 per cent of Minister uses the forthcoming Spending highlights social them compared with 57 per cent the year Round to provide funding for councils to before, and made 3,525 recommendations provide care for our elderly and disabled, care funding gap for how councils could put things right for protect children, build homes and secure the individual residents. future of local services.” here cannot be a sustainable health service Cllr Peter Fleming, Chairman of the LGA’s ● See www.lgo.org.uk Twithout a sustainable adult social care system, the LGA has said in response to the recent announcement of a £1.8 billion cash injection for the NHS. Prime Minister Boris Johnson said ‘Missed opportunity’ on public health £850 million of the new funding would be he Government’s Green Paper on Cllr Ian Hudspeth, Chairman of the LGA’s shared between 20 hospitals to upgrade Tpreventing ill-health is a “missed Community Wellbeing Board, said: “Everyone outdated facilities and equipment. The opportunity” to make the most of councils’ agrees that prevention is better than cure, but additional £1 billion will go on capital spending, public health role and expertise, the LGA councils also need adequate funding for their to allow existing upgrade programmes to has said. public health services to help achieve the stated proceed and to speed up the most urgent Proposals in the Green Paper include aims of this approach. infrastructure projects. ending smoking by 2030, encouraging “The Prime Minister must now prioritise Cllr Ian Hudspeth, Chairman of the LGA’s healthier eating, and stopping under-16s from preventative services by reversing the Community Wellbeing Board, said: “While it is buying energy drinks. £700 million of public health funding cuts important that the NHS is adequately funded, The policy document also sets out priorities over the last ve years. it is clear that there cannot be a sustainable on promoting physical activity, developing “Only this, alongside a joined-up health service without a sustainable adult social guidelines on sleep and targeting those at risk prevention approach across government, care system. of diabetes, with an ambition for everyone can help councils tackle persistent problems “The Prime Minister has promised to bring in England to have gained an extra ve years like obesity, mental illness, substance misuse, forward proposals for a long-term solution to of healthy life expectancy, free of disease or sexually transmitted infections and the health the adult social care funding crisis. It is vital that disability, by 2035. impact of loneliness, as well as addressing he plugs the £3.6 billion funding gap facing It was published in late July, in the week that some of the serious health inequalities that adult social care by 2025 to keep services Theresa May stood down as Prime Minister. still exist across the country.” running. This is the best way to reduce pressure on the NHS and keep people out of hospital in the rst place. “Last year, we produced our own social care green paper outlining key recommendations on how this could be achieved. The Government should also take these forward as it produces its own proposals. “Local government stands ready to work with the Government to make sure we have a social care system that ensures everyone gets the vital care and support they need.” ● See p27, and www.local.gov.uk/lives-we- want-lead-lga-green-paper-adult-social- care for the LGA’s social care green paper

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LGA FIRST 639 September19 pp6-7 News.indd 6 16/08/2019 13:27 Serious youth violence ‘a social emergency’ news in brief Ps have described the rise in serious signi cant extra funding for councils’ youth Myouth violence as a social emergency, services so that essential cost-e ective More older and say that young people have been failed prevention and early intervention work, in the most devastating way, losing their lives including in schools, can help make the children in care as a result. necessary step-change to tackle serious In a new report, the Home A airs violent crime, including county lines activity here has been a surge of older children Committee has said that the Government’s and knife crime. Twith more complex needs going into care, Serious Violence Strategy is “a completely “We support a public health approach to according to the Children’s Commissioner’s inadequate response” to the violence seen in tackling serious violent crime, which requires annual Stability Index. Cllr Anntoinette Bramble, local communities. the input of a range of partners, including Chair of the LGA’s Children and Young People Among a range of recommendations, the those in the health and education sectors, Board, said a national recruitment campaign for committee has called for major investment as opposed to relying solely on a criminal foster carers would help ensure councils have a in local youth services and prevention work, justice strategy. choice of families with which to place children. including a new ‘youth service guarantee’ to “Government needs to reverse funding She said: “Councils are currently supporting help prevent young people getting caught up cuts to local youth services, youth o ending record numbers of children through the care in violence. It also called for urgent action to teams and councils’ public health budgets, system. Last year, 88 children a day entered care, tackle ‘county lines’ drug gangs. and fully fund the services that protect our against a backdrop of unprecedented cuts to Cllr Morris Bright, Vice-Chairman of most vulnerable children, otherwise we will local authority budgets. As this report highlights, the LGA’s Safer and Stronger Communities not be able to tackle serious violence in more children are entering the care system with Board, said: “This report supports our call for our communities.” complex needs, and it can be harder for councils to  nd the best possible placement, which can result in moves despite the best e orts of everyone involved.” unsupervised – into the sea and rivers Tombstoning where they could hit unseen objects or land badly. Mobile blackouts Cases this summer include a woman youngsters who broke both legs and was airlifted to nalysis by the consumer company hospital after leaping into the sea and AWhich? has found that millions hitting submerged rocks in Winspit, Dorset; of people are at risk of mobile signal ‘risk death’ and young boys spotted diving from blackouts because they live in areas of sca olding on a sailing club building into the UK that su er from patchy 4G mobile Councils and re chiefs have warned the sea in Plymouth. coverage. Cllr Mark Hawthorne, Chairman that reckless thrill-seekers leaping from Alongside the risk of hitting submerged of the LGA’s People and Places Board, said: structures as high as 65 feet into water risk objects, jumping into open water where “To prosper in the digital age, residents fatal injuries or serious disability, after a temperatures can be half that of typical and businesses need access to fast and surge in the dangerous activity during the swimming pools can also cause cold water reliable digital connectivity at home, at summer holidays. shock. Cold water shock, which can a ect work and while on the move. Any deal Young people, some fuelled by drink, breathing and movement, is one of the that government strikes with mobile are risking their lives ‘tombstoning’ – biggest causes of drowning. network operators needs to hold them to jumping or diving from a height into water The LGA, which represents not only account on their coverage and ensure that councils but all 48  re and rescue authorities our communities and businesses receive in England and Wales, is calling for the the world-class connectivity they deserve.” dangers of cold water shock to be taught in swimming lessons. If schools don’t arrange swimming Poverty a ects GCSEs lessons for their pupils, they should receive safety advice as part of their oor teenagers are 18 months behind their personal, social, health and economic Pwealthier peers in their GCSEs, with progress (PHSE) lessons. in closing the attainment gap between rich Cllr Morris Bright, Vice-Chairman of and poor coming to a standstill, according to a the LGA’s Safer and Stronger Communities report from the Education Policy Institute. Board, said: “Tombstoning is extremely The attainment gaps are larger and growing dangerous and anyone doing it is dicing in parts of northern England. Cllr Anntoinette with death, or risks ending up with life- Bramble, Chair of the LGA’s Children and changing or serious injuries. Young People Board, highlighted that council- “The message is clear – if you don’t controlled schools deliver better results, and know that the depth of the water is safe or called for more funding to plug the £1.6 billion you cannot see what is below the surface, gap in funding by 2021 for supporting children don’t jump or let alcohol, drugs or peer with special educational needs and disabilities pressure a ect your judgement.” (SEND). She said there is a growing risk to vital Since 2004, the Coastguard has local services if the Prime Minister does not dealt with more than 200 incidents of take action to secure the  nancial sustainability tombstoning, with 70 injuries and 20 deaths. of councils.

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LGA FIRST 639 September19 pp6-7 News.indd 7 16/08/2019 13:28 sound bites

Cllr Lee Carter (Lab, Telford & Wrekin) “New businesses, new shop fronts and new spirit starting to make letters a big di erence in Wellington. Dawley, Ironbridge, Oakengates, Madeley and Newport high streets doing well too, despite national crisis in retail. Much work to do tho!” Councillor pensions in Wales www.twitter.com/Cllrldcarter

refer to Cllr Tom Miller’s letter ( rst 636) on member pay and pensions. It Imay interest your readers to know that what Cllr Miller calls for is already in Cllr Humaira Ali (Lib Dem, Southwark) existence in Wales and has been for around 15 years. “In Burgess Park for Southwark Eid when I met 2 of my 3 favourite There is a national standard payment for county councillors throughout policemen, PC Lee and PCSO Paul. Always great to see our safer Wales (£13,868) with additional special responsibility allowances for leaders, neighbourhood team, especially on bicycles. Not 30 mins later, cabinet members, scrutiny chairs, civic heads, and so on. It is possible to opt they were back in lbwb speaking with my colleague Councillor out of all or some of the allowance on an individual basis. @cathedralsdavid #LiberalLondon.” There are also schemes for national park authorities and re and www.twitter.com/cllrhumaira rescue authorities. All councillors are also entitled to join the Local Government Pension Scheme, with some terms adjusted for elected members. For example, it is Cllr Heather Blurton (Con, Stoke-on-Trent) possible to retain membership until age 75. “Great to be out in #EatonPark this morning for the installation of an These arrangements have taken most of the political heat out of #AED de brillator. Funded by local businesses, residents, myself and the question of member allowances. Guidelines are laid down by the the RA – this will make sure Eaton Park residents have an extra chance Independent Remuneration Panel for Wales (IRP), which reports of survival if they ever go into #cardiacarrest.” on an annual basis. Further details are available on the IRP website www.twitter.com/heather_blurton (see www.gov.wales/independent-remuneration-panel-wales). Cllr Colin Mann (Plaid Cymru), Caerphilly County Borough Council Cllr Sally Hawken (Ind, Cornwall) “Not an easy one but really valuable to visit the Sexual Assault Referral On-demand bus services Centre (SARC) in Exeter today. Huge respect for specialist sta working in forensic medical assessment and the ongoing care following rape & or the Government’s devolution plans to truly succeed, residents and sexual assault.” Fbusinesses need access to the wealth of opportunities that mayors, such www.twitter.com/SallyHawken as myself, create in their regions. A high-quality, reliable and integrated transport system is vital. That’s why I and the Tees Valley Combined Authority Cabinet have agreed plans for Cllr Farah Hussain (Lab, Redbridge) a new ‘demand-responsive’ bus service, to improve transport links for those “So, instead of the 1000s me and my @redbridgelabour colleagues in rural communities. want to build, we’re building the maximum that we can. That’s 600 Areas of Darlington, Hartlepool, and Redcar and Cleveland will be used genuinely a ordable homes on site before 2022. A minimum of 600. for the pilot, and passengers will be able to pre-book via phone, smartphone That’s the largest council house building programme in decades.” app, or a website. They can request pick-up and drop-o points within the www.twitter.com/FarahKHussain area, and to places such as transport hubs and hospitals outside of the area. It aims to make people better connected to the training and jobs we’re driving forward in Tees Valley. Cllr Simon Tagg (Con, Newcastle-Under-Lyme) Procurement is now under way, and we hope this will be up and running “A bit of lea eting between the showers in Westlands and a chance soon. If this pilot works, we are hoping for more local services and that this to check on the recent road resurfacing work in the area. Now o will lead the way for other communities across the UK. to see some of @NewcastleBID cycle racing in the town centre.” Ben Houchen (Con), Tees Valley Mayor www.twitter.com/SimonTagg

Pioneering water services Scheme (WELS). This will invest in water e ciency projects across the council’s buildings, with an estimated saving of 10 per cent a year on our ottingham City Council has started supplying water services to its own annual water spend. Nbuildings, to create savings on the authority’s bills and water consumption. Nottingham will be the rst council to run its own water services Changes in the water industry allow businesses in-house, saving the council an estimated £64,000 a year – with further and organisations to choose how they receive water e ciencies expected through WELS. This will bene t the city, with supply and waste water services, and Nottingham City cheaper running costs for community spaces, such as leisure centres Council has chosen to become its own supplier. and libraries, which will help to protect the council’s frontline services for This does not involve creating a new company and local people. will not a ect households – only the council’s own Cllr Sally Longford (Lab), Deputy Leader, Nottingham City Council operational buildings. Under the new arrangement, the council’s Energy What do you think? Please submit letters for publication Services team, led by Wayne Bexton, has taken over by emailing [email protected]. Letters may be responsibility for the council’s water services. In addition, edited and published online Energy Services is launching a Water E ciency Loan

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LGA FIRST 639 September19 pp8 Letters.indd 8 16/08/2019 13:30 features Investing in people Councils can be depended upon to deliver even better outcomes for residents and the public purse, if they are given financial certainty

need certainty. I know you will all be starting for people while making savings for the your budget-setting process for the next public purse. nancial year, and to do this properly you The challenge for all of us over the next will need to know how much money you few weeks and months is to make this case will have. We also need to make the case for to government. We need to ensure ministers Councillor James Jamieson investing in local government. know about the homes we are building, the is Chairman of the LGA We can best achieve that by highlighting brighter futures we are providing for all our all the work councils do in their local areas children, our solutions to the adult social care he announcement by the to improve lives and support businesses, crisis, the opportunities we’re creating for Chancellor that the Government helping contribute to the national economy new jobs and economic growth and how we will now hold a Spending Round and helping our communities to thrive. support people to live the lives they want. in September for the upcoming We have a great story to tell, for instance So that is what I will be telling nancial year is an opportunity in education, where council-maintained government in the weeks ahead as we toT deliver certainty for councils. schools perform better than academies, or prepare for the Spending Round – that While it is good news for councils that the in public health, where every pound invested councils are doing amazing and essential announcement will be earlier this year, it is in council-run services relieves pressure on work in di cult circumstances and that is critical that we make the case for investing the NHS. These are just two examples of why the Government should work with us to in local government. the very many things councils do to make empower us to do more. It was great that the rst meeting our a di erence. With nancial certainty, councils can new Secretary of State Robert Jenrick had And our residents recognise this. Our be depended upon to deliver even better after the very rst Cabinet meeting was here research shows that three-quarters of council outcomes for our residents; healthier, more at the LGA. I have already had a number of services have improved in the past 10 years. highly educated and safer communities; and follow-up conversations with Robert, and It also shows that people trust their local to protect our most vulnerable people. with Luke Hall, Local Government Minister, council and councillors to make the right Everyone working in local government and their team; Education Secretary Gavin decisions for them and their families. is ambitious for their local communities. Williamson, and Rishi Sunak, Chief Secretary At the same time, councils have saved We are the leaders of place that make a to the Treasury. We are seeking further more than £1 billion of taxpayers’ money big di erence every single day to people’s meetings with ministers across Whitehall by sharing services. Given the opportunity, lives. As the central message in our annual departments, and I and all my colleagues at councils can do even more to support their conference report highlighted, ‘Councils Can’ the LGA will be working hard over the next communities, delivering improved outcomes if government invests in us. few weeks to ensure the views of councils are at the very top of ministers’ in-trays. The main message that we are taking Please visit www.local.gov.uk/councils-can or follow us on Twitter at #CouncilsCan into these meetings, and the message that to nd out more about the LGA’s campaign to secure the nancial sustainability the LGA will be taking to government as we of councils approach the Spending Round, is councils

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LGA FIRST 639 September19 pp09 Investing People.indd 9 16/08/2019 13:32 party conferences 2019

deliver for their residents. We are calling for an English Devolution Bill that presents options for devolved powers in England that at least match those of the Scottish Government. And we are calling for a Local Conference Government Finance Bill, giving councils control over council tax levels and discounts, 100 per cent business rates retention, and season rolling multi-year settlements. We will be using the opportunity of the party conferences this autumn to continue advocating for local government. The LGA will be pressing all the political Councils need the Government to use the parties for a new localism settlement forthcoming Spending Round, Queen’s Speech, Budget, next year’s Spending Review, and a variety of other central t the end of September, all eyes They will be supporting our most government policy announcements, to will turn to the party conferences, vulnerable people to live the lives they empower them to do even more for their as the new Prime Minister and his want, creating jobs and school places, local areas. Government, Brexit and a possible building safe and warm homes, and boosting We will highlight the excellent work General Election continue to economic growth. councils have done to improve e ciency Adominate the political agenda. At the party conferences, the LGA will and continue to deliver great services, All the political parties will be taking the be pressing national politicians on the and show that – with the right powers, opportunity to lay out their domestic need for a new localism settlement as investment and certainty over funding – policy priorities as we get the new political outlined in our #CouncilsCan campaign, local government can build even stronger year under way. which you can read about on our website communities. In the meantime, councils continue (www.local.gov.uk/councils-can). This Our Chairman, Cllr James Jamieson, to serve their local communities and help will empower councils further so they can and Group Leaders Cllr Izzi Seccombe, Cllr them to thrive. While Westminster focuses continue to provide crucial services to Nick Forbes, Cllr Howard Sykes and Cllr on the terms of our departure from the residents across the country. Marianne Overton – plus other councillors European Union, councils will continue to Councils need the powers and – will be taking these messages to party support their residents. responsibilities to be able to continue to conferences. They will be speaking at more © GETTY

Liberal Democrat Leader Jo Swinson MP Labour Leader Jeremy Corbyn MP Conservative Leader Boris Johnson MP

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LGA FIRST 639 September19 pp10-11 feats.indd 10 16/08/2019 13:33 party conferences 2019

than 40 debates, roundtables and receptions, and meeting key politicians. We will also be hosting our own debate “Our message to the political parties is give us the at each conference, in partnership with powers, freedoms, flexibilities and funding, and political and community consultancy Curtin&Co, on the importance of the Queen’s councils will transform the country for the better” Speech for councils. In Bournemouth, the Liberal Democrats will be aiming to build on recent momentum, In October (4-6), the Green Party meets in will be hosting its own annual conference at focusing their attention on climate change Newport and will continue to build on its local the LGA’s London o ce on 8 November. and restating their opposition to the UK’s exit success, championing its members’ proposals The next few months, including party from the European Union. for environmental and economic change. conferences, will set the political scene In Brighton, the Labour Party is likely Our Independent Group will be at the for the coming year. We will work with to make a number of domestic policy Plaid Cymru conference (4-5 October in parliamentarians, councillors and our partner announcements as it continues to call for a Swansea) and at the UKIP conference organisations to make the positive case for General Election. (20-21 September, in Caerleon). The group local government. Meanwhile, the Conservative Party will be meeting in Manchester, where Prime Minister A full guide to all of the events we are involved with can be found on our website at Boris Johnson will continue to develop his www.local.gov.uk/parliament vision for the UK.

What’s on at the party conferences – LGA events

Liberal Democrats Labour Conservatives Bournemouth Brighton Manchester 14-17 September 21-25 September 29 September-2 October

• The LGA evening reception • The Association of Labour • The LGA evening reception Sunday 15 September Councillors evening reception Tuesday 1 October 7.30-9.30pm Sunday 22 September 8.00-9.30pm Hardy SuiteHermitage Hotel 8.00-10.00pm Charter 4 Skyline Room Manchester Central Speakers include: Cllr Howard Sykes Brighton Centre MBE, Leader of the LGA Liberal Democrat Speakers include: Cllr Izzi Seccombe, Group; Jo Swinson MP CBE, Leader of the Speakers include: Cllr Nick Forbes, Leader of the LGA Conservative Group; Liberal Democrats; Cllr Vikki Slade, Leader Leader of the LGA Labour Group and Cllr James Jamieson, LGA Chairman of Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council; and Cllr Joe Harris, Leader of • LGA debate • LGA debate: Cotswold District Council #CouncilsCan: why is the Queen’s #CouncilsCan: why is the Queen’s Speech important for local government? Speech important for local government? • LGA debate: Sunday 22 September Tuesday 1 October #CouncilsCan: why is the Queen’s 1.00-2.30pm 4.00-5.30pm Speech important for local government? Stanmer Room, Exchange 10 Monday 16 September Hilton Brighton Metropole Manchester Central 1.00-2.00pm Hardy Suite, Hermitage Hotel Speakers include: Cllr Anntoinette Speakers include: Cllr James Jamieson, Bramble, Deputy Leader of the LGA LGA Chairman (chair); Luke Hall MP, Speakers include: Cllr Howard Sykes Labour Group (chair); Cllr Nick Forbes, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State MBE, Leader of the LGA Liberal Democrat Leader of the LGA Labour Group; (Minister for Local Government and Group (chair); Wera Hobhouse MP, Liberal Baroness Smith of Basildon; Sachin Homelessness); Cllr Izzi Seccombe, Democrat Spokesperson, Environment Shah, Head of Local Government Leader of the LGA Conservative Group; and Climate Change; Cllr Emily Smith, at Curtin&Co and former Leader of Martin Curtis, Associate Director Leader of Vale of White Horse District London Borough of Harrow; and at Curtin&Co and former Leader of Council; Dr Darren Lilleker, Associate Gemma Tetlow, Chief Economist, Cambridgeshire County Council; and Professor, Bournemouth University; and Institute for Government. Emma Norris, Director of Research, Nick Stanton, MD at Curtin&Co and former Institute for Government. Leader of London Borough of Southwark.

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LGA FIRST 639 September19 pp10-11 feats.indd 11 16/08/2019 13:33 LGA FIRST 639 September19 pp12 Ad.indd 12 16/08/2019 14:17 party conferences 2019 Building for the future

The Liberal Democrats return to Councillor Howard Sykes MBE is Leader of the LGA's Liberal Bournemouth in buoyant mood after a Democrat Group successful local council election campaign

work with national government to meet carbon reduction targets, and to stress the contribution Liberal Democrats in local government are making, whether in control or in opposition. In this spirit, we will be looking to table an amendment to a conference motion on climate change, stressing the role local councils can play. It will be great to hear from Jane Dodds MP, former councillor and now our new MP for Brecon and Radnorshire; she is the reason why the Government now has a majority of just one in the House of Commons. Other debates of interest to local government will be on crime, Brexit, health and social care, and tourism. As well as all this, we will be working with our partners in the Association of Liberal Democrat Councillors to deliver numerous training and fringe sessions, including an LGA debate on why the Queen’s Speech will be important for local government. There will also be Liberal Democrat Group sessions on representing rural communities, and celebrating more than 33 years of control at the London Borough of Sutton. This is in ournemouth will be starting to look addition to the ever popular LGA annual local very familiar to some this year, as government reception. the Liberal Democrats return there “We meet for the first The conference will close with a speech on 14 September, just a couple of time as a party since from Jo Swinson MP as our party’s new months after our very successful LGA Leader. As you may recall, we were pleased Bannual conference. gaining more than 700 to welcome her to Bournemouth for There will be another similarity; Cllr Vikki council seats in May” the LGA's annual conference as our deputy Slade will return to open the conference, leader just weeks before the election result just as she did for the LGA – but this time was announced. as the Liberal Democrat Leader of the new number of councils that we either lead or of Before that session, we will pay tribute Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council. which we have the deputy leadership. to Lord Paddy Ashdown, the rst leader of It has been many years since a Liberal On the opening day of conference, Wera the Liberal Democrats. During his time at the Democrat Conference was opened by its local Hobhouse MP – formerly a Liberal Democrat helm of the party, we elected more Liberal Liberal Democrat council leader. councillor on Rochdale Council – will speak to Democrat councillors than ever before. He Cllr Slade heads up the Unity Alliance on the conference about climate change. was – and remains – a real inspiration. We look the council, working with others to get things We met with Ms Hobhouse recently forward to working with Jo Swinson to build done for the patch. We are proud of the work to discuss how local authorities can our local government base for the future. she and the team have done in leading the new authority, and look forward to hearing more from her. The Liberal Democrat Conference takes place in Bournemouth from We meet for the rst time as a party since 14-17 September. You can nd out about LGA party conference events by visiting gaining more than 700 council seats in May's www.local.gov.uk/parliament local elections, and more than doubling the

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LGA FIRST 639 September19 pp14 Ad.indd 14 16/08/2019 13:37 sector-led improvement

Building on the success of sector-led improvement

One of our most innovative schemes that has had great success in the sector is our Housing Advisers Programme. This funds the “Sector-led improvement Councillor Peter Fleming is Chairman of the provision of independent expertise for those is saving more than £5 LGA’s Improvement councils undertaking speci c projects to and Innovation Board tackle the e ects of the housing crisis in their for every £1 spent, a local communities, including advice on fraction of the cost of housing delivery, planning for homes, and The LGA’s Housing reducing homelessness. improvement work In the previous two years of the in other parts of the Advisers Programme programme, the LGA has funded more than 100 councils to help them build the homes public sector, and with is helping councils their areas need, reduce homelessness, plan for ageing populations, understand the student better outcomes” build the homes their housing market, increase supply of modular housing, and more. something we’ll be taking forward quickly over areas need This year, the LGA will support a smaller the coming months. number of larger, strategic housing projects. There is a huge opportunity for us to look am super-excited to be writing this article, The Housing Advisers Programme will award at sector-led improvement in the round and set having been asked to serve as Chairman up to £50,000 to each project for the purpose out a bold, local government vision of how this of the LGA’s Improvement and Innovation of securing expert advice in transforming how approach to improvement can be enhanced Board for the next 12 months. It is, I a service or partnership meets the housing over the next decade. It is vital, with a Spending believe, the most rewarding role within needs of communities. Round looming, that we continue to set out Ithe LGA board structure. I will now have the As the Innovation and Improvement Board why the sector-led improvement approach opportunity to eulogise and champion all of considers the needs of the sector over the next has been so successful in terms of impact, the amazing and innovative work councils are year, we will – in the autumn – be making sure innovation, improvement, and value for money. doing to improve the lives of people in the you have the opportunity to shape our sector- Sector-led improvement continues to be an communities we serve. led improvement o er so it re ects what amazing local government success story that Sector-led improvement continues to go your council needs in the future. We have we should be rightly proud of.Now, we should from strength to strength, year after year. Last already heard that councils want us to look forward to embedding its strengths, year, we delivered 140 peer challenges, 20 per look at climate change and sustainability in bringing fresh ideas and innovation, and cent more than the year before. We also trained relation to our improvement o er, and that’s securing its funding for the future. more than 800 councillors, recruited 120 graduates for the sector and helped councils To nd out more about the Housing Advisers Programme, visit save in excess of £100 million. And we know www.local.gov.uk/housingadvisersprogramme or email [email protected] how much that support is valued; almost 100 We are currently accepting applications for the 2019/20 programme, with a per cent of council leaders and chief executives deadline of Thursday 19 September. To nd out about our wider SLI o er, visit tell us that our sector-led improvement o er www.local.gov.uk/our-support has had a positive impact on their authority.

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LGA FIRST 639 September19 pp15 Improvement.indd 15 16/08/2019 13:37 sector-led improvement

Join the Next Generation

is to ensure that our members increase their The LGA’s Next Generation programme con dence and e ectiveness as community and political leaders, as well as gain increased equips emerging political leaders with awareness of the di erent approaches to political leadership. In doing so, it is expected the skills and confidence to be bold that the delegates will also learn more about champions of local government and their personal strengths as a leader within the community. A delegate from the 2018/19 progress in their political careers programme summed it up by saying: “As a new councillor in a large group, it can be hard to know where you  t in. Next Generation has ach year, we support a select group the focus is on three key areas: personal given me the con dence to know that I have of talented and ambitious councillors leadership, political leadership, and what it takes to be a future leader.” from across the political spectrum communication and media skills. Modules Next Generation is now in its 14th through the LGA’s Next Generation are planned as residential events in various year, and continues a strong tradition of programme. As a part of the LGA’s locations and give councillors a fantastic supporting and encouraging councillors to Esector-led improvement o er, the initiative opportunity to meet fellow members from be bold and con dent leaders, progressing enables councillors to learn from each other across the country, including those of their their political careers and champion ing local and is part of a wider range of political own political persuasion or – in the case of government. The result of the programme leadership development schemes. the Independent Group – part of a cohort. is councillors who are enabled to better The Next Generation programme The programme encourages councillors represent, understand and work with o ers councillors an unparalleled political to learn from each other and, each year, deep their communities and constituents, while development opportunity – uniquely and long-lasting friendships are formed. upholding their own values and morals, developed within party political traditions Next Generation aspires to o er a rare and those of their party or an independent and with party political experts. In addition opportunity to make critical friends who political spirit, for members of the LGA’s to the Conservative, Labour and Liberal can o er feedback and support. Upon Independent Group. Democrat groups, there is a programme completion of the programme, members for councillors represented by the LGA’s become part of a formidable group of For more information about Next Independent Group. alumni, which continues to be a strong Generation, visit www.local.gov.uk/ Next Generation has a competitive network of peers that can o er support and our-support/highlighting-political- application process and, while the modules advice beyond the programme. leadership/next-generation vary between the LGA’s political groups, Each year, the ambition for the programme

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LGA FIRST 639 September19 pp16-17 Next Gen.indd 16 16/08/2019 13:55 sector-led improvement

Case studies

Conservative Group Labour Group Liberal Democrat Group Independent Group Councillor Lynne Doherty, Councillor Damien Egan, Councillor Sarah Councillor Geraldine Leader of West Berkshire Mayor of the London Cheung Johnson, South Coggins, Tra ord Council Council Borough of Lewisham Cambridgeshire District Council As a newly elected councillor, Becoming a councillor for I always encourage councillors with no background in local my local authority was n ot to go on the Next Generation I have enjoyed and valued government, I was keen to get something I had planned , programme because of the every part of the Next as much training as I could. So so when I was rst elected experience I gained from Generation programme. when I heard about the LGA’s in 2015 I welcomed the being in the 10th cohort. The It’s been fantastic to come Next Generation programme, I support given to me by the relationships you will build are together with a group of dived at the opportunity. LGA. I became Lead Member the friendships – with future compassionate, dedicated and One of the highlights for for Children’s Services and cabinet members and local smart councillors, get to know me was a session on voice started my journey by government leaders – that will each other, and bene t from training. We think so much attending the LGA Training remain invaluable throughout each other’s experience. about the words we use, but for Lead Members. When it your political career. I was The training was think so little about our voice was suggested that the Next elected to Lewisham Council invaluable, challenging me and how we project those Generation course should be in 2010 and Next Generation to think about what I want words. Having time to focus my next step, I happily signed was a unique opportunity that to get out of my councillor on how we can improve our up. It was a great opportunity helped me develop as a leader. career, growing my skills, skills in this area was really to meet like-minded people The diversity of voices and developing my eye-opening. and share ideas – a group I am that I met on Next Generation understanding of how my The biggest challenge, still in contact with and whose were very di erent from those role in local government and the most fun , was the opinions I value. of the councillors I worked plugs into the wider Liberal big budget debate at the last The Media Training/Public alongside in the town hall. Democrat network. session. It allowed us to bring Speaking weekend was my The good practice I learn ed I highly recommend together lots of the skills we favourite part and, although from other councillors, that anyone who wants had gained along the way. uncomfortable to watch, it is through sharing ideas, really to develop and grow their But the main bene t for hugely bene cial to hav e the built up my con dence. It career as a councillor joins me was the chance to step opportunity to see yourself meant that when I became this programme – the aside and take time to look at being interviewed and to be Cabinet Member for Housing trainers were fantastic, the big picture . How can we critiqued by others. in 2014, I had the con dence knowledgeable, and made it do our jobs better? What is our Since attending Next to deal with the increased a lot of fun. role in the community? How Generation, I have become responsibility and workload. can we do it to the best of our the Leader of my council and As the directly elected abilities? In what situations am thankful every day for the Mayor of Lewisham, I rely on will you use these tools and training that has equipped those skills day in, day out – skills? How do we juggle our me to deal with the many especially when handling the time and balance our lives? scenarios I nd myself in. My competing interests of council Just talking to a wide con dence has grown and o cers, developers or leaders range of people from all sorts although I would never say in the voluntary sector. My of councils gave me insights my nervousness of public Next Generation colleagues into di erent approaches. speaking has disappeared remain good friends, and I’d highly recommend it completely, I do have the o er a network of advice and to anyone who would like techniques to hand to keep support from outside the to increase their skills and this in check! council that I still rely on. understanding of the role.

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LGA FIRST 639 September19 pp16-17 Next Gen.indd 17 16/08/2019 13:39 sector-led improvement

Communications health check The LGA has launched a new self-assessment tool for councils to check the effectiveness of their communications

“Completing our online self-assessment will give Councillor Peter Fleming your teams the resources and support they need to is Chairman of the LGA’s Improvement strengthen your council’s communications” and Innovation Board

ood communication supports support our work? Completing our online everything we do – from self-assessment (see comms.esd.org.uk) will #FutureComms informing residents about help you to understand your strengths and The self-assessment tool is part of their bin collections to telling what areas could be improved. It will also our #FutureComms resource, which a family their relative has a give your teams the resources and support includes a range of tools and good Gplace in a care home. they need to strengthen your council’s practice guidelines to help councils The LGA has launched a new self- communications. We look at everything from improve their communications assessment tool, #FutureComms Self- strategy and evaluation to campaigns and function, and explains how modern, Assessment Tool, to allow you to check channel use, and how you as a member can strategic communications can help how e ective your current communications best support your teams. deliver corporate priorities. are and what skills your team and wider There are 17 questions to answer, after It follows the LGA’s sector-led organisation need to better support the which you’ll be pointed to the resources approach to improvement, which delivery of council priorities. and tools needed to help improve your is at the heart of everything we do. As leaders in local government, council’s communications. The resource has been co-created communication is at the heart of what we do, This will allow you to better champion with communication experts from but the way we communicate has changed the interests of your local community across local government, sharing best massively. Traditional local media is in decline and engage them in your decision-making practice and lessons learned to inform and there have been huge changes, with the going forward. future decisions. rise of digital and social media. Many council We really appreciate any feedback Communications are more communications teams have felt the impact or questions you may have. You can important than ever, in terms of of reduced budgets and shrinking teams send these to David Holdstock, the informing people about services or at a time when the local communication LGA’s Director of Communications, at reaching them in a crisis. landscape is more fragmented and complex. [email protected] We’ll continue to review and grow But what do modern, e ective #FutureComms and our support and communications look like? How can strategic, To  nd out more visit improvement o er, so that we are informed communications help us, as www.local.gov.uk/future-comms changing to meet this landscape. political leaders, to meet our priorities and

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LGA FIRST 639 September19 pp18 Tools.indd 18 16/08/2019 13:39 sector-led improvement

fees and charges, on a budget of £4.1 million. Expert advice These included approximately £1 million from increases to street works permit fees and a further £0.5 million from increases to other existing fees and charges (such as search fees). An LGA-funded productivity expert has The remainder is from advertising and other helped one council generate income and ‘new’ opportunities that are to be investigated further and will take longer to realise. make savings on fees and charges The project has enabled the highways service to generate additional income, which can help to protect funding for locally ike many other local authorities, Surrey important initiatives. County Council faces a signi cant “Benchmarking has The approach from the review has also funding de cit and is undertaking been used to conduct reviews of fees and a series of projects to either make proven to be an charges in other directorates, with the savings or generate additional income essential tool to help council hopeful that this work could indirectly Lto help balance its budget. result in further savings beyond the initial One of these projects has been a review us identify saving and £2 million identi ed. of fees and charges in its Highways, Sarah Kershaw, Surrey’s Business Transport and Environment directorate, income opportunities” Alignment Manager, said: “Benchmarking for things such as street works permits, has proven to be an essential tool to help us search fees, skip licences, tra c orders and by senior managers and elected members. identify saving and income opportunities. The planning applications. The work identi ed more than £2 million support we have had from the LGA to do this The council wanted to determine if of potential savings or income from additional has been invaluable.” its existing charges were proportionate when benchmarked against other local authorities, and to identify opportunities for Productivity experts the introduction of new fees and charges, or the cessation of discretionary services where The LGA’s Productivity Experts Programme supports councils to make savings and/or charging was not feasible. generate income against a backdrop of decreasing funding and increasing demand To help it do this, Surrey applied for for services. funding from the Productivity Experts The LGA grants £7,000 to a council, which then commissions an expert with a track Programme (see panel), part of the LGA’s record of supporting local authorities and delivering results. The expert provides 12 days sector-led improvement o er, to pay for a of direct, bespoke advice and support. commercial expert to carry out a review. In 2018/19, the programme worked with 42 councils, contributing towards e ciency The in-depth review analysed existing savings and/or income generation of an estimated £42 million over the next four years. data on current charging levels at Surrey, and Councils,  re and rescue services and national parks can all apply for the grant compared these with those of neighbouring funding. We encourage partnership applications with councils and public sector local authorities. organisations, and can accept them at any time during the  nancial year. However, we Where opportunities to increase charges are only able to give out 20 grants – so the advice is to apply quickly before they run out. were identi ed, the expert arranged one- To give your innovative project a £7,000 grant boost, apply now for your own to-one sessions with the relevant service productivity expert. Visit www.local.gov.uk/productivity-experts-programme and managers to explore the implications click on ‘how to apply’ for our application criteria and form. Please email productivity@ and viability of doing so. The ndings local.gov.uk if you need more information or help. were detailed in a bespoke report for decision

September 2019 first feature | 19

LGA FIRST 639 September19 pp19 Productivity.indd 19 16/08/2019 13:40 e ealt and are Political eaders ip ffer

Our free support offer, funded by eaders ip essentials ession dates Department of Health and Social arwick on erence en re oven r If you are a HWB chair/co/vice chair or Care, and part of the LGA’s sector These free two day residential sessions have a leading political role in a health led improvement programme is are an opportunity to reflect on the and care system: aimed at: leadership challenges of these roles. c or ov • health and wellbeing board Feedback from our past delegates If you are an adult social care include: portfolio-holder or lead member: (HWB) chairs/co/vice chairs “You come away with great ideas ov • portfolio-holders/lead members to grow and develop a Health and Reflecting responsibilities across health with responsibility for adult Wellbeing Board.” and social care, the November sessions social care “Full of ideas and passion.” will run simultaneously, linked by shared speakers, facilitators and a joint dinner to • anyone with any other leading “A really effective way of learning.” provide a wider networking opportunity.

political role in a health and “Gives confidence to lead.” lease con ac [email protected] care system. or more in orma ion.

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LGA FIRST 639 September19 pp20 Ads.indd 20 16/08/2019 13:40 Rough sleeping: a health and care approach

The most vulnerable estimated 41 per cent of people who sleep rough, compared with only 28 per cent of the “Almost half of all rough sleepers general population. need effective and In addition, 45 per cent of rough sleepers councils have reported have been diagnosed with mental health a rise in rough sleepers integrated services issues, compared with a quarter of the population as a whole. One in three has in their area” tailored to their complex needs, which is de ned as having at least two chronic health problems. needs to help them In particular, drug taking and alcohol support through health and care services. can make it di cult for those who are For example, Tower Hamlets provides get off the streets experiencing rough sleeping to be helped psychological support to those sleeping o the streets, as continued abuse rough on the streets; Newcastle ensures can result in them being excluded rough sleepers who end up in hospital are ackling rough sleeping requires from accommodation. A ‘housing  rst’ supported so they are not released back both health and care solutions approach, for those people with the most onto the streets; and in Bradford, a mobile to help those most in need and complex needs, is helping to solve this health unit goes out touring the streets to reverse the long-term trend of through o ering stable accommodation help those in need of their services. a rising number of people living without the need to be free of substance What these examples demonstrate is onT the streets. misuse problems. that services work best when they are In a new publication for councils, the However, long-term progress for proactive and able to reach out to those LGA says this is the best way to support the the most vulnerable individuals can only who are most vulnerable. It cannot be Government’s Rough Sleeping Strategy happen through e ective and integrated left to those who are experiencing rough and achieve its target of halving rough health and care solutions tailored around sleeping to book themselves in for sleeping over the course of this Parliament – their needs. appointments as those who are not homeless and eliminating it by 2027. The Homelessness Reduction Act 2017 would do. Prevention, intervention and recovery places a legal duty on councils to prevent Good practices, where introduced, make are the focus of the strategy, with o cial homelessness and support all those a di erence. Vital treatment and care is being statistics showing a 165 per cent increase requesting help who may be at risk given to people who are sleeping rough, in reports of rough sleeping over the past of homelessness, irrespective of whether which is helping them transform their lives 10 years. they are in certain groups that, previously, and get o the streets. While the current number of 4,677 rough allowed them to be prioritised. Meeting basic health needs is an sleepers is down 2 per cent in a year, the Rising demand and the need to make essential part of meeting the Government’s overall long-term trend is of a vast increase e ciencies mean that areas are  nding and councils’ shared aim of eradicating in rough sleeping across the country. Almost new and innovative ways to provide rough sleeping. half of all councils have reported a rise in rough sleepers in their area. ‘Supporting the health needs of those who are experiencing rough sleeping’ Heart disease, diabetes and addiction is available at www.local.gov.uk/supporting-health-needs-those-who-are-experiencing- problems are among the long-term rough-sleeping physical health problems experienced by an

September 2019 first feature | 21

LGA FIRST 639 September19 pp21 Homeless.indd 21 16/08/2019 13:54 admissions for alcohol also remain high, Lessons in licensing and some authorities struggle to manage issues such as anti-social behaviour and vulnerability related to licensed premises. The LGA has published a handbook for Of course, councils cannot address these complex challenges alone, but the handbook councillors that gives an overview explores the tools councils have to manage some of these issues. The LGA has also of licensing legislation and examples of published a set of case studies focusing on approaches to managing issues in the night- best practice time economy. A House of Lords select committee elaxing over a meal or drink, recently published ‘Licensing Act 2003 – undertook post-legislative scrutiny of the enjoying leisure time and being councillor’s handbook (England and Wales)’ Act in 2016, and the handbook picks up entertained are all important parts has pulled together some examples of best on the committee’s discussion of licensing of our lives. These activities also practice, alongside an overview of committees. Peers felt they had seen and play a vital part in making our towns the legislation. heard about examples of poor practice by Rand cities places where people want to live, Elected members play two key roles in licensing committees. They made a number work and socialise. licensing. First, councillors have the power of recommendations relating to this – the The vast majority of people who enjoy to shape what the licensed economy looks most far-reaching being that the functions of a drink at the pub or a night at a concert do like, by developing a clear vision for the night- licensing committee should be transferred to so safely and sensibly. Likewise, the licensed time economy, underpinned by a statement planning committees. businesses providing alcohol or other types of licensing policy. Second, as decision- Although government did not accept of regulated entertainment are, for the most makers, councillors also play a key role in this recommendation, it did support part, well managed and operate responsibly. balancing the interests of those who may be recommendations around the training of However, without proper regulation, aected by an activity and those who wish licensing committee members. While the LGA these activities can create problems and to enjoy those activities or rely on them for is clear that councils are best placed to decide cause harm to individuals and communities. income and employment. on the form and frequency of training, the Alcohol and entertainment licensing, There are plenty of examples of how handbook sets out some guiding principles therefore, plays a fundamental part in councils are carrying out their role eectively, for those authorities seeking to review or keeping us safe and healthy. It allows us but there is always room for improvement. strengthen approaches to decision-making. to enjoy ourselves and promotes social While to some extent the Act has been responsibility within a framework that successful in driving positive changes in ‘Licensing Act 2003 – councillor’s enables businesses to prosper. drinking habits, and there has been an overall handbook (England and Wales)’ and Since the Licensing Act 2003 came reduction in alcohol-related crime, some case studies of approaches to managing into force in 2005, councils in England and issues persist. the night-time economy are available Wales have had a statutory role as licensing The latest statistics show that in more on the LGA website: www.local.gov. authorities. Nearly 15 years later, councils than half of all violent incidents, the victim uk/licensing-act-2003-councillors- continue to use the legislation to positively believed the perpetrator to be under the handbook-england-and-wales in uence and shape local areas. The LGA’s in uence of alcohol. Rates of hospital

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LGA FIRST 639 September19 pp22 Licensing handbook.indd 22 16/08/2019 13:41 Youth-focused democracy An award-winning youth movement is making big strides in shaping decision-making at Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council

Councillor Bob Cook (Lab) is Leader of Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council

ouncillors talk a lot about the importance of listening to young people. But how do we translate that talk into action – and, by action, I mean something that has Cllr Bob Cook, with Big Committee genuine impact? C Chair Kameron Spence and the I’m a huge believer in this, and in Stockton- BMBF mascot, ‘Wattson’ on-Tees, I’m proud and delighted to say we’re making great strides. That’s thanks largely to our award-winning youth-led movement, known as ‘Bright Minds, Big Futures’ (BMBF). “It is hard to find the words to describe how impressive BMBF was born out of our Youth Assembly, but it’s something di erent. It’s a self-managed, these young people are, but they are a force to be self-appointed and diverse group of young people. BMBF has a very clear purpose, which reckoned with” is to in uence and shape decision-making, and to work with and challenge the council to This means we can measure progress and residents’ magazine, Stockton-on-Tees News, make our borough a great place to grow up. impact as we go, and there’ll be regular reports which goes out to every household in the It has a very clear structure, with a ‘Big back to Cabinet. borough. It’s a great way to highlight BMBF’s Committee’ at its core, complete with portfolio That regular oversight and reporting is achievements and encourage new members holders that mirror our own Cabinet set-up. critical because, as we know, plans mean to join the movement. The Big Committee is mentored and nothing without results. And results are already It is hard to  nd words to describe how advised by two ‘older’ young people, both of coming through. impressive these young people are, but they whom have great experience in youth-focused One of BMBF’s early ‘wins’ was the are a force to be reckoned with. democracy. And, best of all, this entire format introduction of community food plots in some Inevitably, awards have started coming has been wholly devised, developed and of the borough’s allotments to supply produce their way. In January, BMBF scooped the implemented by the young people themselves, for food banks. regional best ‘Youth-Led Project’ award at the all on a voluntary basis. It has built and launched its own period British Youth Council’s Youth Voice Star Awards. In March, members of the Big Committee poverty campaign and is working with But that wasn’t the high point, because in came to Cabinet and presented their ‘Big Plan’ Cleveland Police on a ‘stop and search’ initiative. March the group travelled to London, where it to us. Compiling the plan was not a duty they It has also created a ‘BMBF Approved’ lifted the national award. took lightly. This was a 47-page document accreditation scheme to recognise local Indeed, I can say with great con dence representing the culmination of a two-year services and businesses that create a safe and that this is just the start. BMBF’s work continues programme of engagement with more than welcoming space for young people. to grow and expand, with several new, exciting 450 young people. In addition, it helps us spread the word and innovative projects and initiatives already The plan was set out very clearly, covering about our year-round programme of events, under way. Watch this space. everything from community safety to by acting as ‘event correspondents’ and posting environment and green spaces. Each section regular updates on social media. And we’re was broken down further into sub-sections about to involve BMBF in the design of a new To find out more about BMBF please titled ‘What we want’ and ‘What we will do’. ‘pocket park’ just o Stockton high street. visit www.stockton.gov.uk/bmbf In fact, it’s very much like our own Council Plan. We also give BMBF a regular feature in our

September 2019 first feature | 23

LGA FIRST 639 September19 pp23 Youth Group.indd 23 16/08/2019 13:41 The Amenity Forum is the independent JOIN US voluntary initiative promoting best practice Local Authorities can join the Forum as in all aspects of weed, pest and disease an Associate Member free of charge and management. It provides the important link obligation until December 2020. This will THE ANNUAL between industry, government and those AMENITY FORUM provide you with access to information CONFERENCE commissioning works such as local authorities. and support on all aspects of amenity 10th October 2019 Its aims include management including: • Leading, encouraging and providing recognised • Resources and guidance documents Discounted tickets guidance on best practice including integrated management. for Local Authorities • Co-ordinating and encouraging networking, • The latest research, news and views are available training and continuous professional development • A range of experts and networking • Organising regional and national events and opportunities at your fingertips leading communication activity

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LGA FIRST 639 September19 pp24 Ads.indd 24 16/08/2019 13:42 terraced housing (‘tunnel-backs’) of the past. Council housing now: Internally, they were to be of a much higher standard, well-lit and well-ventilated, with generous space standards and features such as lessons from the past inside bathrooms and toilets; and they were to be laid out not as long terraces but on ‘garden suburb’ lines, with gardens front and rear and ample green space for leisure and recreation. The new approach was set out in the Tudor Walters Report of 1918 and implemented by “Surely this is what our local authorities, resulting in the construction Mark Swenarton is Emeritus private housebuilders of municipal garden suburbs across the land in Professor of Architecture at the 1920s. Liverpool University and author need today – a kick up Faced with this new competition, of Homes Fit for Heroes the backside from a new speculative builders rapidly decided they could not continue with an outdated format and so The end of July marked the centenary of generation of high-quality they too adopted the Tudor Walters model. the Housing Act of 1919. The ‘Addison Act’, Surely this is what our private housebuilders as it is better known, was a turning point council homes that will need today – a similar kick up the backside in the history of housing and the e ective compel them to raise their from a new generation of high-quality council beginning of local authorities as a major part homes that will compel them to raise their of the UK’s housing system. standards to match” standards to match? In the quarter-century before 1914, local The third lesson is to do with party politics. authorities accounted for about two per cent (yes really!) Treasury grant was introduced. Lloyd George and Addison were both Liberals, of new dwellings. But, for the years 1919-23, Looking back from 2019, perhaps three but the Government in 1919 was a coalition in the gure was 60 per cent, and for the inter-war major lessons stand out. The rst is that, faced which the Conservatives were the majority period as a whole 30 per cent – a gure that with a massive numerical shortage of housing, partner. The Chancellor of the Exchequer who, increased in the post-war period until the tap the only way to deal with it was through local in 1919, authorised expenditure on the of council house building was turned o by authorities. At the end of World War I, Lloyd housing programme (“We ought to push on Margaret Thatcher in 1979. George and Christopher Addison realised that with it immediately, at whatever cost to the The Addison Act followed from the promise if the housing shortage was really going to be State”) was not a Liberal or Labour MP but made by Prime Minister David Lloyd George, tackled, it was no good looking to private a Conservative, Austen Chamberlain. In other in the turbulent period after the armistice of builders or housing associations: only the local words, in 1919 the recognition that a large- November 1918, to deliver half a million authorities had the heft to do it. The same surely scale programme of council house building homes “ t for the heroes who have won the applies today. was needed to tackle the housing shortage war”. Under the Act, local authorities were The second is to do with quality. To meet extended to all political parties. Let us hope required to meet the housing needs of their area the aspirations of the returning ‘heroes’, the this is something that our new Prime Minister and, to enable them to do so, an open-ended new houses had to be much better than the bears in mind.

September 2019 first feature | 25

LGA FIRST 639 September19 pp25 Council housing.indd 25 16/08/2019 13:42 group leaders’ comments

Tackling climate change

Councillor Izzi Seccombe “I am proud the Conservative Party, both locally and OBE is Leader of the LGA’s nationally, is committed to addressing climate change” Conservative Group

was delighted to hear Boris Johnson, our new passing a motion in support of the UN members of the Ministry of Housing, IPrime Minister, a rm that action to address Sustainable Development Goals, it is clear that Communities and Local Government’s climate change is at the ‘absolute core’ of the local government is on the frontline of  ghting (MHCLG) ministerial team: Esther McVey, the Government’s priorities. climate change across a range of issues, new Minister for Housing; Luke Hall, the new I am proud the Conservative Party, both including transport, planning, waste and Local Government Minister; and Viscount locally and nationally, is committed to housing.The LGA will continue to play a Younger, the new Minister in the House of addressing climate change.It has a solid record leading role in supporting councils to meet Lords. I look forward to meeting with them of achievement already, including helping to the expectations of their communities in and Robert shortly. secure the Paris Agreement, reducing relation to this key issue. Finally, although we are sad to see greenhouse gas emissions, cutting plastic bag Following the Government reshu e, them leave MHCLG, congratulations are usage and investing in renewable energy. I would like to congratulate Robert Jenrick, due to Rishi Sunak on his appointment to Additionally, the Government has set a our new Secretary of State for Housing, the Cabinet as the Chief Secretary to the legally binding target to reach net zero carbon Communities and Local Government, Treasury, and to Heather Wheeler on her emissions by 2050, making the UK the  rst on his appointment, and to thank his appointment as a Parliamentary Under major developed economy to legislate to end predecessor, James Brokenshire, for all that Secretary of State at the Foreign O ce. I its contribution to global warming. he did for local government. thank them for their service at MHCLG and With the LGA’s General Assembly recently I also congratulate the other new wish them all the best for the future.

Chairman’s comment Brexit, devolution and funding: the challenges ahead

Over the coming weeks and months, the demand for public services and save money LGA will be working extremely hard to make for the taxpayer. sure the voice of local government is heard and On Brexit, councils are already taking that the Government knows the role councils the lead on preparations to leave the EU. can play. The funding recently announced by Councillor James Jamieson is Chairman of the LGA A major part of this will be our ‘Councils Can’ government will help us coordinate our campaign (see www.local.gov.uk/councils- e orts, but with the huge  nancial can). This sets out our key asks and calls constraints we face, it is vital councils get on the Prime Minister and his government the resources they need. ith his premiership now well under to give councils the powers, funding and Brexit will a ect local areas in di erent Wway, Prime Minister Boris Johnson tools they need to deliver the very best for our ways, which is why preparations must has some huge challenges ahead of him, local communities re ect local circumstances, and it is local not least Brexit. This is why we will be pressing for the next leaders who are best placed to direct He faces a very busy domestic agenda, Queen’s Speech to include a new localism preparations where there is most need. from tackling the social care crisis to building settlement, underpinned by a Devolution Bill By working with councils and devolving the a ordable high-quality homes the that reignites devolution and gives councils the funding and powers, Boris Johnson has an country desperately needs. powers they need to lead local areas, improve opportunity to deliver a post-Brexit vision Central to this will be using the residents’ lives, tackle climate change, reduce that transforms this country for the better. forthcoming Spending Round to give councils the certainty they need about how local services will be funded next year, as they begin their budget-setting process, “Councils are already taking the lead on preparations to and to plug the £8 billion funding gap councils face by 2025. leave the EU... it is vital they get the resources they need”

26 | first comment www.local.gov.uk

LGA FIRST 639 September19 pp26-27 Group leader comments.indd 26 16/08/2019 13:43 group leaders’ comments

Councillor Nick Forbes CBE Councillor Howard Sykes MBE Councillor Marianne Overton is Leader of the is Leader of the MBE is Leader of the LGA’s Labour Group LGA’s Liberal Democrat Group LGA’s Independent Group

Climate emergency: More investment needed Vital local services need it’s time to act in health and care more support

“To ensure that residents “The underfunding of “Councils are amazingly are able to adapt to the social care has reached effective at improving forces of climate change, crisis point” lives, and remarkably we must act now” cost-effective”

he need to act on climate change is urgent e will wait to see if the one-o £1.8 billion his is a big year for us. It will bring a changed Tand real. I’m pleased to see that Labour Wfunding pledge for NHS hospital TUK-EU relationship and possible councils are leading the way in responding to equipment and upgrades is worth the paper it’s Parliamentary elections, while we continue to the climate emergency. written on. help our communities to thrive in an ever- At the LGA’s annual conference in July, we Some of the cash announced will reportedly challenging funding environment. declared a climate emergency and asked the be coming from hospital reserves or previous We have started work with the new LGA to commit to supporting councils in their commitments – hospitals had asked permission Government to get the funding we need. Vital work to tackle climate change by providing a to spend this cash on frontline services and, until local services provided by councils continue strong, uni ed voice for councils in lobbying for now, government had refused. to face a funding gap of more than £5 billion support to address this emergency, and sharing The Government cannot keep ignoring the next year, rising to £8 billion by 2025. Councils best practice across all councils. fact that we need to plug the £3.6 billion are amazingly e ective at improving lives, and With the majority of Labour councils funding gap facing adult social care by 2025. remarkably cost-e ective. committing to ambitious targets of carbon It is vital that it uses the recently announced What happens locally in our streets and neutrality by 2030, it is vital that their e orts one-year Spending Round to address this villages a ects us most and changes the way are facilitated by central government policies. and plans for the longer term in the 2020 people see their lives. Local councils and To respond to renewed pressure from climate Spending Review. Independent councillors are at the heart of our groups, and to ensure that residents are able The underfunding of social care has reached communities, holding them together and to adapt to the forces of climate change – crisis point, and critical sta ng shortages have seizing opportunities. Our ‘Councils Can’ a ecting housing, transport, energy supplies not been addressed. Adult social care has the campaign will be highlighting that, so please and the food market – we must act now. second-largest percentage of job vacancies add your voice using #CouncilsCan or visit Labour in local government continues across the public sector after the NHS. www.local.gov.uk/councils-can. to champion this important agenda and Meanwhile, children’s mental health services Disappointingly, the Government has Labour councils are taking action up and down are almost non-existent. pushed the Spending Review back to 2020, with the country. The NHS and social care are too important only a one-year announcement due, meaning The LGA’s Labour Group is going to be to people’s lives to be neglected. continued uncertainty on future funding. producing a website and a number of resources The Liberal Democrats are committed to Preparations for a no-deal Brexit are vital. to support Labour’s local government work in transformational frontline funding by stopping We have made our case to the minister that this area. This will ensure that Labour-run Brexit and investing a penny on income tax into councils need support to help economic growth councils and Labour groups have access to the health and care sectors. and to provide essential services to make our case studies, best practice, how-to guides, And let us be honest – these measures will places clean, green and safe, with access to campaign materials and much more. Look out only start to solve the problem; they are not the education, employment and care when we for it next month. nal answer. need it. Is that too much to ask?

For more information about the LGA’s political groups, see www.local.gov.uk

September 2019 first comment | 27

LGA FIRST 639 September19 pp26-27 Group leader comments.indd 27 16/08/2019 13:43 #LGACONF 20

LGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE AND EXHIBITION 30 JUNE  2 JULY HARROGATE

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35.4LGA AnnualFIRST 639conference September19 2020 half_AND_fullpp28 Ad.indd page28 advert_05.indd 2 16/08/201931/05/2019 13:44 12:30 parliament Shaping the devolution debate

As a politically-led, cross-party organisation, the LGA’s work in Parliament is integral to ensuring that local government has a strong, credible voice in Westminster. Over the past year, we have continued to enjoy great success in our engagement with select committees and all-party parliamentary groups (APPGs) on a wide variety of issues that matter to councils. These sessions are a vital part of the work we do on your behalf; they help shape policy development and build consensus for local government’s policy recommendations. Most recently, there has been a renewed focus on devolution amid encouraging signs that it’s back on the political agenda, with Prime Minister Boris Johnson committing more than £1.3 billion of extra funding to 100 towns across England. This is a positive step, and we will continue to work with the new government on a devolution settlement that delivers for you. LGA Chairman Cllr James Jamieson set the APPG, chaired by our Vice-President, big cities, now is the time for devolution for out the case for devolution at our annual Andrew Lewer MP, heard from a variety of the rest of the country.” conference in Bournemouth in July. He said: speakers including Cllr Sue Baxter, Chair of the The importance of devolution was “We provide places where people can be National Association of Local Councils; Clive also debated in the Lords, with Baroness safe and warm. We help equip them with Betts MP, Chair of the Housing, Communities Eaton supporting our calls for a devolution the skills they need. We create vibrant and Local Government Select Committee; settlement and “the powers, freedoms, economies. And we have continued to do former LGA Chairman Lady Eaton; and Lord  exibilities and funding to deliver great all this during one of the most challenging Tyler, Liberal Democrat Spokesperson for communities”. Lord Tyler described our times for councils.” Constitutional and Political Reform. commission’s nal report as a “timely antidote” Building strong relationships with The roundtable took a detailed look at our to the overconcentration of powers in our legislators is a key priority for the LGA and, Post-Brexit England Commission’s nal report, major cities and towns. through our high level discussions on ‘The future of non-metropolitan England: the The APPG will continue its inquiries in devolution, we have already engaged with freedom to lead local places’ (see rst 638). the autumn, meeting after the party stakeholders including councils, business This detailed evidence from 130 councils conferences to discuss the case for devolving leaders, academics, MPs and Peers. about the opportunities and bene ts to skills and training provision. We will be taking At the same time, we have continued local areas of devolution, including kick- forward your calls for a new devolution to work with parliamentarians, including starting inclusive growth, tackling the skills settlement and making sure that the policy members of the Reform, Decentralisation gap, building more a ordable homes and recommendations of local government and Devolution APPG, to reignite the broader investing in transport and infrastructure. continue to be heard. devolution debate. This has formed part of our Speaking in Parliament, Cllr Mark #CouncilsCan campaign, which calls for more Hawthorne, Chairman of the LGA’s People For more information about the powers and funding for local communities and Places Board, outlined the importance LGA’s work in Parliament, please visit (see www.local.gov.uk/councils-can). of a devolution settlement for all of England, www.local.gov.uk/parliament A recent roundtable discussion held by commenting: “We have had devolution for our

September 2019 first political | 29

LGA FIRST 639 September19 pp29 Parliament.indd 29 16/08/2019 13:45 councillor Joint scrutiny of health services “merger should not unduly distract the interesting question: what are the risks of this existing CCGs from business as usual, pace of change? including delivering core performance Let’s look at the ‘why’. It would be unfair standards and achieving  nancial balance”. to say there was a single reason. But the Councillor Ketan Sheth is Chair So, straight away, there’s one interesting NHS Long Term Plan says “by 2020/21, of Brent Council’s Community and line of enquiry here – how will the CCGs individual CCG running cost allowances Wellbeing Scrutiny Committee manage this process, if it goes ahead, will be 20 per cent lower in real terms than and how will they be able to run existing in 2017/18 and CCGs may therefore wish Many members of health overview and services e ectively? to explore the e ciency opportunities of scrutiny committees will feel that their The ‘when’ is also interesting. The NHS merging with neighbouring CCGs”. This role is a complex task. In my experience, Long Term Plan describes an intention that, brings up more lines of enquiry, such as this area of scrutiny becomes even by April 2021, all of England will be covered will the cost savings be achieved and what more demanding when there is a joint by an Integrated Care System, involving a happens if they are not? committee, involving a number of local CCG or CCGs working together with partners. It will still be a big, demanding topic authorities, to scrutinise health services But, in London, things are moving quite to look at in committee. But, as scrutineers, across a large area. a bit faster, and the intention at the moment I think we can feel more on top of it, and I sit on the North West London Joint is to have a single CCG for north-west better prepared, by working through it layer Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee London by April 2020. Again, this raises an by layer. (JHOSC), alongside seven other local authority representatives. It was set up in 2013 to review Shaping a Healthier Future – the NHS transformation programme for north-west London. A major change is afoot, but this time it’s more on the commissioning side of health services. On the back of the new NHS Long Term Plan, there’s now active consideration of a proposal to merge all eight of the clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) covering north-west London into one body. This would create a body commissioning health services for about 2.2 million people across eight boroughs. What interests me is re ecting on the challenges facing members sitting on a joint committee such as this who have to review such a large-scale project. The  rst obvious point is that this is an enormous topic, and the implications are profound. To my mind, as a scrutiny member, the only way that you can start to understand the proposal and prepare for the all-important committee meeting is by breaking down the topic into smaller chunks. One way to do this is to look at the published NHS papers and ask some obvious questions based on how, when and why. The ‘how’ is key. According to NHS England guidelines for merging CCGs, a

30 | first political www.local.gov.uk

LGA FIRST 639 September19 pp30 Councillor.indd 30 16/08/2019 13:45 local by-elections

Ashford, Downs North CON HELD elections 6.1% over Green Turnout 31.5% Cambridge, Newnham LIB DEM HELD Liberal Democrat gains 41.4% over Lab Turnout 26.7% Cardi , Cyncoed LIB DEM HELD in local contests 31.3% over Con Turnout 42% While Prime Minister Boris Ceredigion, Llanbadarn Fawr Sulien Johnson is determinedly seizing PLAID CYMRU HELD the political agenda, it is the 31.6% over Lib Dem Turnout 37.1% Liberal Democrats who are Professors Colin Rallings (right) making the electoral weather. and Michael Thrasher Daventry, Brixworth Their victory in the are Associate Members, LIB DEM GAIN FROM CON Nu eld College, Oxford parliamentary by-election in 12.2% over Con Turnout 30% Brecon and Radnorshire on 1 August was preceded by three council dominated the rst elections for the currently East Northamptonshire, Irthlingborough seat gains in Daventry and Gloucester, con gured ward in 2004, and from then until Waterloo followed up by another win in Worcester the 2012 hung on quite handily until they CON HELD week after. were punished across the country for their 6.3% over Lab Turnout 36.1% Indeed, the Claines ward in Worcester can role in the Cameron coalition government. be seen as encapsulating the ups and downs of Success in Claines mirrored their increased Gloucester, Barnwood new Leader Jo Swinson’s party ever since local share of the vote at both the 2005 and 2010 LIB DEM GAIN FROM CON government reorganisation 45 years ago. general elections. 12.4% over Con Turnout 29% Safely Conservative under rather di erent This time they bounced back again, turning boundaries for more than a decade after 1973 a de cit of nearly 100 votes in May into a Gloucester, Podsmead (and with Labour never a serious contender), it majority of 56 in a ward that appears to have LIB DEM GAIN FROM LAB occasionally  irted with the Liberal Democrats narrowly voted ‘Remain’ in June 2016. Their win 0.4% over Con Turnout 33% and its predecessor parties throughout the coincides with opinion polls showing them Hartlepool, Hart 1980s and 1990s, with sitting councillors of breaking the 20 per cent barrier for the rst LAB HELD both colours usually retaining their seats. time since 2010 and often challenging Labour 0.7% over Ind Union Turnout 17.6% It was the Liberal Democrats, though, who for second place. A footnote to the Gloucester results is the Huntingdonshire, Godmanchester and rst appearance at a local election of the Brexit Hemingford Abbots Party. It nished fourth in the Podsmead ward LIB DEM HELD and a very distant third in Barnwood but, as 13.6% over Con Turnout 27.9% in Brecon, the votes it attracted may have had some material impact on the outcome. Richmond Upon Thames, East Sheen Both Labour and the Conservatives have LIB DEM HELD been warned about the potential ability of both 23.4% over Con Turnout 40.7% the Liberal Democrats and the Brexit Party to rain on their parade. Stockport, Hazel Grove And the news gets even worse for Labour. LIB DEM HELD The party has lost ground in no fewer than 24 6.8% over Con Turnout 28.3% of the 27 council seats it has contested since the May local elections. Hardly a sound basis Wiltshire, Westbury North on which to ght a General Election campaign, LIB DEM HELD should one be forthcoming this autumn. 27.6% over Ind Turnout 24.4%

For more details of these and Worcester, Claines previous local by-election results, LIB DEM GAIN FROM CON please visit www.local.gov.uk/first 2% over Con Turnout 42.7%

September 2019 first political | 31

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