Category Archives: localism

Parish, Town And Community Councils Should Be Central To Localism

Following the recent annual conference of the National Association of Local Councils, and subsequent reporting in the media and on social media, I have been rightly reminded of the important (if not critical) contribution to our democratic life and well-being that parish, town and community councils can make. Across the country, these councils and their… Read More...

Reach out to volunteers

Local authority leaders should foster and develop strong relations with the local voluntary and community sector and view its member organisations and their staff, volunteers and supporters, as natural allies, writes John Tizard. As former vice-chair of the National Association of Voluntary Community Action, I hear too many reports about local authorities failing to connect… Read More...

Public procurement professionals can make their mark in 2017

There can be no doubt that 2017 will be a tough and challenging year for the public sector, especially local government and the NHS. This means challenges and hopefully opportunities for procurement professionals across the public sector. There will be less money with further and deeper cuts to expenditure and services. Over the last decade… Read More...

Taking Back Control: Empowering Local Communities

On 23rd June 2016 the British people voted against remaining members of one of the boldest ever international attempts to create a union of collaborative nations based on the pursuit solidarity, economic progress and peace. This union will survive and evolve if and when and on whatever terms the UK leaves it. Ironically the historic… Read More...

Local Social Action Is More Vital Than Ever – And So Are Its Champions

If ever there was a time for bold, brave focussed leadership in the voluntary and community sector, at both national and local level, surely it is now?

And this must particularly be case in respect of the local community and small charity sector, which are the backbone of strong communities and the catalyst for local social action.

Given contemporary social and...

Democracy must be at heart of English devolution

English devolution is gathering pace. The Government is set on supporting devolution to combined local authorities and directly elected mayors across England. Local government is responding with enthusiasm and energy.

There are many arguments to be made for this policy though the extent of the devolved powers and the transfer of resources to support these powers bears detailed scrutiny and...