Supporting councils

We support councils continuously to improve and innovate through a programme of practical peer-based support underpinned by strong local leadership and through our service delivery partnerships.

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The LGA’s sector led improvement programme continues to provide a responsive and flexible offer and remains in a strong position to respond and adapt to councils’ needs as circumstances evolve, particularly in the context of COVID-19.



We work closely with councils to understand their future support needs with a view to developing a longer- term offer. Our offer will continue to adapt as the opportunities and challenges facing councils change within the current context.

Our core offer is funded by MHCLG grant and has been rapidly refocused to support councils in their response to COVID-19 as well as identifying longer term support needs. We also receive funding from the Department of Health and Social Care for our Care and Health Improvement Programme, whilst our children’s improvement programme is funded by the Department for Education (DfE).

We have developed a new offer linked to climate change and the challenges and opportunities of moving to a zero-carbon economy.

We also receive funding from other government departments for specific sector-led improvement activities, including:

  • One Public Estate – funded by Cabinet Office and MHCLG
  • Cultural services and sport – in partnership with Arts Council England and Sport England
  • Planning Advisory Services – funded by MHCLG
  • Return to Work programme – funded by the Government Equalities Office
  • Cyber security – funded by the Cabinet Office.

Our commitments will continue to be updated to ensure they match councils needs across the period of this business plan.