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“Public health funding for councils has reduced by £700 million over the last five years. If we are to build back better post-pandemic and achieve longer, healthier life expectancy for all, we need the right funding now to put in the extra preventative measures to make that happen.”

“Every child deserves a safe and happy childhood in which they are loved and supported to reach their full potential"

“The survey results are concerning, and highlight the importance of helping children to be active during this period to support their physical and mental wellbeing. Councils are working hard to keep parks and green spaces open and available for this, and by implementing active travel routes to support safe cycling and walking.”

 “It is good that housebuilding is on the increase again, and that planning permissions were extended earlier in the pandemic to enable developments to continue when safe to do so."

“Our six-point plan would give councils a better chance of being able to move homeless children into permanent accommodation "

“Ensuring vulnerable pupils are provided for is a top priority for councils with many delivering high quality food boxes in partnership with schools."

“It is clear that demand for places is significantly higher during this national lockdown, meaning schools have been placed in the invidious position of balancing safe pupil numbers in school with the higher expectations of the delivery of up to five hours a day of lessons online.”

“Vaccinating as many people as possible is the only certain way we can get through this pandemic and it is inspiring to see so many volunteers offer their help alongside frontline staff up and down the country."

“Local knowledge and expertise has proved vital in combating COVID-19 and councils want to work with the Government to develop testing strategies which contain and reduce the virus in every area of the country, and for every section of our diverse communities."

“Schools and councils need to focus on providing education during the pandemic, without any unnecessary distractions. This is why we are urging Ofsted to postpone the resumption of monitoring inspections for schools, either in-person or virtual, until after February half-term at the earliest.”