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Councils in England have seen their core funding from central government reduce by £15 billion in the last decade. In recent years, they have seen a rise in the number of short-term, ringfenced, small grants they receive annually from government departments and agencies.

“The economic impacts of the pandemic are likely to be long-lasting and far-reaching. Many households could be economically vulnerable for some time to come and many are now relying on the benefits system to help them make ends meet."

Cllr Ian Hudspeth responds to the publication of the latest NHS Test and Trace and coronavirus testing figures

"Councils have played a crucial role during the current crisis and have demonstrated the strength that comes from local leaders able to work with others and their communities."

"It is vital that councils are able to decide how the hundreds of millions of pounds raised from the levy is invested, to ensure that our children get the greatest start in life."

Communities could have missed out on nearly 30,000 affordable homes in the past five years if proposed government planning reforms were in place, new analysis by the LGA reveals today.

“We need a new national focus on helping everyone stay mentally well, including those affected by COVID-19, backed-up by funding for councils to spend with the voluntary and community sector on meeting local mental wellbeing needs."

“Coronavirus has impacted all our lives, with many health check services halted in March to help with the wider national effort. As these fully resume, it will be more important than ever for those eligible for a health check to sign up for one."

The Government needs to use the Spending Review to devolve careers advice, post-16 and skills budgets and powers to local areas. This would allow councils, schools, colleges and employers to work together to improve provision for young people so that they can get on in life.

“Tackling domestic abuse is an issue that councils take very seriously, so we are pleased that government has agreed to provide funding to help local authorities prepare for the introduction of the Domestic Abuse Bill, which the LGA has supported."