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"Councils and combined authorities know their communities best and are uniquely placed to bring together partners to help deliver this funding including through adult and community learning centres."

Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson, Chair of the LGA’s Culture, Tourism and Sport Board responds to the Government’s announcement in the Spending Review of funding for the UK’s culture, tourism and sport sectors.

"The LGA has long made the case for the importance of green and outdoor spaces for people’s health and wellbeing. This funding is a positive step and will enable more local authorities to create spaces to enable communities to build activity in their daily lives."

“The adjustment of the taper rate of Universal Credit and the increase in the work allowance announced today is an important part of supporting recovery from the pandemic, which should help to mitigate some but not all of the impact of the ending of the Universal Credit uplift."

“It is essential that councils have the capacity, workforce and funding to stand up locally-driven testing and contact tracing as soon as possible, to be able to respond swiftly to any future outbreaks or public health emergency.”

"It is absolutely crucial that councils are at the forefront of the national response to climate change and we need the Government to work in partnership with local authorities to continue shaping local areas and help to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050 or sooner."

“Extra funding to support people sleeping rough is crucial to maintain the success of 'Everyone In' this winter."

Councils have called on the Government to provide urgent clarity on the future of the Community Renewal Fund, after announcements of successful projects have been delayed.

“Mental health needs to be at the heart of a holistic approach to overall health and wellbeing, including investment in community-based services, such as youth services. Health and wellbeing should be intrinsically linked to a child-led education recovery plan."

"It is good that councils have been given the delivery responsibilities for this scheme. They are at the heart of their local communities and are best-placed to bring together partners to deliver improvements to their local areas."