Over the course of this pandemic, District Councils’ Network (DCN) councils have stepped up heroically to the challenges presented to them. Whether it be delivering £9bn in lifeline business support grants, providing emergency shelter to thousands of rough sleepers, helping local businesses and high streets reopen safely, our members have been at the heart of supporting our communities when they have needed it the most.

District councils know every mile of our local areas and deliver services to every front door. They have unrivalled convening power in our places. For example, Lancaster City Council set up a business support hub, providing practical advice, mentoring and access to funding to the city’s business community to help them grow and get back on their feet after the pandemic. Watford BC marshalled a volunteer army of 1,600 local people who have now helped carry out over 8,000 good deeds for those in need or those facing isolation within the local community. In Lincolnshire, seven district councils worked together to set up a new wellbeing service, working with health partners in the NHS and care sector to ensure services are co-ordinated and delivering for local people.