The LGA's media office provides the national voice of local government in England and Wales on the major issues of the day for national, regional and local press.
Commenting on research undertaken by the London School of Economics (LSE) and the Maternal Mental Health Alliance about increasing access to perinatal mental health care, Cllr David Fothergill, Chairman of the Local Government Association’s Community Wellbeing Board said:
“As this stark research highlights, perinatal mental health problems occur during the period from conception to the child’s second birthday. If untreated and unsupported, these mental health problems can continue to affect mothers, and their families for years afterwards. In the UK, one in five are affected by maternal
“As this report highlights, awarding funding in small pots on a competitive basis has created uncertainty and hindered councils’ ability to plan strategically for their communities.
"Domestic abuse is complex and in order to enhance efforts to combat this issue, through both prevention schemes and support services, councils need to be fully funded across all services."
“Using their local leadership, knowledge of the local labour market and ability to bring partners together, councils are uniquely placed to deliver a coherent, local joined-up offer to help people get back into work and training, backed up by the right funding.”
“The end to the eviction ban brought in to protect tenants during the pandemic has undoubtedly contributed to this rise in households threatened with homelessness from the private sector, and councils are eager to work with government on a plan to safeguard tenants."
“Councils support measures that help social housing staff to better support residents and ensure any issues are dealt with quickly and satisfactorily."
"We are pleased the government has listened to councils and is taking action to prevent owners of properties which are not genuine businesses exploiting the rules."
“Councils continue to lead their local communities through the pandemic. Extra government funding and support provided to date has been crucial and it is important that government continues to monitor the situation, providing vital support to councils when needed.”
“Introducing a new Protect Duty will require significant resource and capacity to ensure that those within its scope are aware of their responsibilities and comply."