Truth about Local Government

In this episode, we sit down with Chris Henning, Executive Director of Place at Derbyshire County Council, to discuss the pressing housing crisis and the recently published ADEPT Housing Policy Position paper. Chris shares insights on how local authorities can partner with the government to meet ambitious housing targets, improve existing housing stock, and create sustainable, resilient communities. We delve into the six key areas for action outlined in the policy paper and explore the need for a long-term housing plan that addresses both current and future environmental challenges. Join us for an enlightening conversation on the future of housing and community development.

In this episode, we sit down with Amal Uddin, to explore the intricacies of delivering a successful disposal program. With extensive experience supporting local authorities, Amal shares his expertise on the key elements that contribute to effective property disposal, the common challenges faced, and the best practices to overcome them. Tune in to gain valuable insights and practical advice on how to navigate the complexities of disposal programs and achieve successful outcomes.

In this episode, we sit down with Jonny Birkett, Managing Partner (Joint) at Genecon Ltd, to explore the evolving priorities in place regeneration. We delve into the critical question: Is social and environmental impact now equally as important as economic growth when regenerating towns, cities, or regions?

Jonny shares insights into contemporary approaches to place regeneration, emphasizing that measuring success solely by economic impact is no longer sufficient. Modern placemakers are increasingly recognizing the importance of understanding both the social implications and environmental effects of change.

Jonny discusses the necessity of developing a comprehensive overview early in the process—during master planning, business case development, and design stages. By presenting a complete picture from the outset, placemakers can better identify challenges and opportunities, enabling proactive interventions that not only mitigate negative impacts but also enhance positive outcomes.

This episode highlights the broader understanding that successful places are those that thrive economically while also fostering social cohesion and environmental sustainability. Jonny reflects on the commitment to creating places that positively impact both communities and the natural environment, recognizing that genuine success in placemaking goes beyond economic considerations alone.

Join us for an insightful conversation on how the priorities in place transformation are shifting and what it means for the future of our towns, cities, and regions.

In this episode, we sit down with Claire Cookson, the Chief Executive Officer at DFN Project SEARCH, to discuss the critical role of local government, education, and businesses in supporting individuals with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Claire shares her extensive experience and valuable insights on three key topics:

1. Supporting SEND Transition to Employment:
   • Claire discusses the current challenges faced by individuals with SEND in accessing employment opportunities.
   • She highlights the role of local government in creating supportive policies and programs.
   • Success stories and effective initiatives that have made a significant impact are shared.
2. Quality SEND Education and Eliminating the Postcode Lottery:
   • Claire defines what great SEND education looks like and the essential components that contribute to it.
   • The episode delves into the issue of the postcode lottery and its effects on SEND education.
   • Claire offers strategies and solutions to ensure consistent, high-quality education for SEND students across different regions.
3. Collaborative Support Structures:
   • The importance of collaboration between businesses, local government, and the education sector is emphasized.
   • Claire explores ways to co-design support structures that enable SEND children and families to dream big, aim high, and receive the necessary support to thrive.
   • The discussion encourages a culture of high expectations and lifelong support for SEND individuals.

Key Takeaways:

• The critical role of local government in supporting SEND transitions to employment.
• Strategies to eliminate the postcode lottery and ensure high-quality SEND education.
• The power of collaboration in creating comprehensive support structures for SEND individuals and their families.

Call to Action:

Listeners are encouraged to get involved in supporting SEND initiatives, whether through advocacy, volunteering, or supporting relevant programs. Claire provides resources and information on how to contribute to this important cause.

Tune in to gain valuable insights from Claire Cookson and learn how we can all play a part in empowering SEND futures through collaboration and support.

In this episode, we delve into the pressing challenges faced by the public sector in attracting and retaining young talent. With the private sector often offering higher salaries, the public sector struggles to compete. Additionally, an ageing workforce and a lack of clear career pathways for younger professionals exacerbate the issue. We also explore the role of parents, carers, and teachers in guiding students towards careers in the property sector, and the fundamental need to clarify what we mean by "public sector."

But it's not all doom and gloom. We discuss a range of innovative solutions designed to make the public sector more appealing to young professionals. From creating more apprenticeship opportunities and advocating for flexible work policies to introducing mentorship programs and offering internships, we cover it all. We also highlight the importance of school and university outreach, working with teachers and career hubs, and using social media to raise awareness of public sector roles.

Join us as we explore how establishing a marketable value proposition, offering CV and application master classes, participating in mock interview sessions, and training younger staff as STEM ambassadors can make a significant difference. We'll also discuss the benefits of adopting schools to foster early interest in public sector careers. Tune in to learn how these strategies can help bridge the generational gap and build a robust pipeline of young talent for the future.

Today we interview Robert Burns, the forward-thinking Chief Executive of Monaghan County Council. With a robust background in transforming community services and housing, Burns brings a wealth of experience to the table. The Council, serving a population of 65,000, boasts an impressive annual revenue budget of €90 million and is set to invest €373 million in capital projects over the next three years.

Join us as Burns shares his journey from spearheading over 6,000 social homes at Fingal County Council to leading Monaghan’s ambitious capital investment programme. Discover how Monaghan County Council is not just a statutory authority but a dynamic partner in economic development, supporting indigenous industries, and fostering strong business relationships.

Don’t miss this episode where leadership meets innovation at the crossroads of community development and environmental stewardship.

In this episode, we sit down with Chris Bally, the Chief Executive of East Suffolk Council, to explore the dynamic changes and initiatives shaping East Suffolk. Chris shares his insights on the council’s efforts to represent the community authentically and transform public perceptions of the region. We begin with an overview of East Suffolk’s unique characteristics and challenges, highlighting the council’s role in local governance and community development. Chris discusses his journey to becoming Chief Executive and his vision for East Suffolk, outlining the strategic priorities under his leadership.

The conversation delves into community engagement initiatives that involve residents in decision-making processes, showcasing success stories of community-led projects and their impact. We also explore strategies to attract investment and boost the local economy, focusing on key sectors driving growth and innovation in East Suffolk. Chris explains the efforts to rebrand East Suffolk and highlight its strengths, addressing how the council is overcoming stereotypes and promoting a positive image of the region.

Looking ahead, Chris shares upcoming projects and long-term goals for East Suffolk, offering his thoughts on the future of local governance and community resilience. This insightful conversation delves into the heart of East Suffolk, showcasing the dedication and vision driving its transformation. Whether you’re a resident, a local business owner, or simply interested in community development, this episode offers valuable perspectives on making a positive impact at the local level.

In this episode, we sit down with Huw Russell, a Director in the Climate team at Local Partnerships LLP, and Liz Vango, Sustainability and Climate Change Officer at Hart District Council, to explore the pivotal role of local councils in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. We'll discuss how councils, including Hart District Council, are leveraging free tools, jointly delivered to you by the Local Government Association and Local Partnerships. You can find the tools on the Local Partnerships website to identify and target sources of emissions. The tools are free thanks to funding from the Local Government Association and the Crown Commercial Service. This proactive approach helps councils respond effectively to their Climate Emergency declarations and move closer to their net zero targets. Join us as we delve into the strategies, successes, and challenges faced by local councils in the fight against climate change.

In this enlightening episode, we sit down with Amanda Hopgood, the Leader of Durham County Council, to discuss the transformative journey of the North East Combined Authority (NECA). Formed on May 7, 2024, the NECA aims to harness the full potential of the region by fostering collaboration among its seven local authority areas: County Durham, Gateshead, Newcastle, North Tyneside, Northumberland, South Tyneside, and Sunderland.

Key Highlights:

• Vision and Goals: Amanda outlines the NECA’s vision to create a better quality of life by connecting communities, enhancing skills, and improving overall wellbeing. The authority’s mission is to make the North East an outstanding place to live, work, visit, and invest.
• Cultural Identity: As the lead on culture, creative, tourism, and sport, Amanda emphasizes the importance of preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of County Durham. She discusses initiatives aimed at boosting tourism and supporting local creative industries.
• Economic Development: The episode delves into the economic strategies being implemented to attract investment and create well-paid jobs across the region. Amanda shares insights on how the NECA plans to tackle challenges such as child poverty and unemployment.
• Community Engagement: Amanda highlights the significance of community involvement in shaping the future of the North East. She talks about various projects and public meetings designed to give residents a voice in the decision-making process.

Join us for an inspiring conversation that sheds light on the collaborative efforts driving the North East towards a brighter and more prosperous future.

In this insightful episode, we sit down with Paula Braynion, Managing Director & Samantha-Jo Scarbrough-Lang, Assistant Director Of Operations at Director of Future Directions CIC, to discuss the groundbreaking shift towards outcome-based procurement in social care. Paula shares her extensive experience and expertise, shedding light on why focusing on outcomes rather than hours of service can lead to more meaningful and effective care.

Key Topics Covered:

• Introduction to Outcome-Based Procurement: Paula explains the concept and its significance in the social care sector.
• Benefits Over Traditional Models: How this approach improves the quality of care and enhances the lives of service users.
• Real-World Applications: Success stories from Future Directions CIC and other organizations that have adopted this model.
• Challenges and Solutions: Addressing the obstacles faced during the transition and strategies to overcome them.
• Future Vision: Paula’s insights on the future of social care and how outcome-based procurement can drive positive change.

Join us for a compelling conversation that explores how we can revolutionize social care by prioritising outcomes over hours, ensuring that every individual receives the support they truly need.