News

This insightful report on what social care directors are facing on the ground and what actions they want to see makes essential reading for government.

People are being urged by councils to check in on vulnerable friends, neighbours and relatives to ensure they are safe with parts of the country set to experience low temperatures.

“To ensure employment and skills programmes are as effective as they can be in future, councils and combined authorities should be placed at the heart of delivering a coherent and local offer building on their proven track record of delivering similar services and support.”

"As these figures show, more needs to be done to meet increasing demand and a huge amount of unmet need, with more than half a million adults estimated to have alcohol dependency, while a high proportion of those receiving treatment are living in the most deprived areas."

“Councils face significant financial challenges to deliver much-needed SEND support to all those who need it and to meet rising demand, reporting a spending deficit of £675 million last year."

“Councils are determined to help tackle Violence against Women and Girls (VAWG) in our local communities, and work alongside police, the NHS, and charities to make sure we do all we can to protect women and girls from all forms of abuse."

"Domestic abuse is a horrendous crime, which councils cannot tackle alone. The cooperation of other public services including the police is essential if we are to work to eliminate domestic abuse."

"Councils will want to continue to work closely with government to ensure the rights and needs of children are at the heart of these new arrangements. These need to enable local partners to give children the help they need, including mental and physical health support and appropriate education."

The Local Government Association (LGA) has announced the nine successful councils in its new Digital Pathfinders Programme. 75 councils in England were shortlisted through a competitive bidding process. 

"To capitalise on this success and level up the health of the nation, particularly those in the most economically deprived areas, it’s vital that Government, key partners and stakeholders work together with councils to create healthy places with accessible green spaces and affordable sport and leisure opportunities."