Graduate scheme can drive savings and jobs
09 February 2012
The highly-regarded graduate recruitment programme used by councils has the potential to drive up standards in town halls even further if take-up increases, a recent report has revealed. According to the study from the LGA, Solace Enterprises and iMPOWER, hiring more university leavers in the Local Government National Graduate Development Programme (NGDP) will lead to greater development and innovation.
Campaign's focus is power to the people
09 February 2012
A new campaign has been launched to consider how to make the roles of Whitehall and councils clearer to local residents. Its aim is to improve democratic accountability and give greater power to local people, by making it clearer who is in charge of their public services. The campaign is an initiative between Graham Allen MP, Chair of the Political Constitutional Reform Select Committee, and the LGA.
Launch of £250 million bin fund: LGA reaction
03 February 2012
Responding to the Government's launch of a £250 million fund to support weekly bin collections, Councillor Clyde Loakes, Vice Chairman of the LGA Environment Board, said: "In areas where financial considerations have held councils back from operating weekly collections this new money will come in useful, particularly at a time when councils are having to cope with cuts of 28 per cent to their budgets."
Consultation on EU fines – LGA reaction
31 January 2012
Councillor Sir Merrick Cockell, Chairman of the LGA, responds to the Government's announcement on EU fines.
A brighter future – new directions for the ngdp
9 February 2012
A new publication sets out the value of the National Graduate Development Programme (ngdp) and aims to fuel the debate surrounding the importance of graduate recruitment for local government.
Be a councillor
2 February 2012
Local government is only as vibrant, effective and relevant as the people elected to run it. We are encouraging councils, regional organisations and local parties to support the 'Be a councillor' campaign by running a local version for their area. We have produced a toolkit of materials to help you. Access it now. (image: Councillor Awale Olad from Camden Council).
Winter watch
Winter 2011/2012
Winter watch keeps member councils, the public and the media informed about the work going on in villages, towns and cities across the country. A forum will be launched soon allowing people to share their views and ideas as well as many other features.
Featured content
Health and Social Care Bill: House of Lords Report Stage Briefing
7 February 2012
This briefing comments only on the aspects of the bill that are of direct relevance to local authorities. The LGA strongly supports the transfer of public health to local government.
MORE ON CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE
Events
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Mar
7LGA/CLOA culture, tourism and sport annual conference 7-8 March 2012
With the Olympic and Paralympic Games, Diamond Jubilee, Cultural Olympiad and countless local activities and celebrations, 2012 is going to be a huge year for local culture, tourism and sport services.
