HR
Getting up to speed in a COVID world
Kate Watts shares her experiences of returning to work after a year’s maternity leave and adjusting to the major changes brought by coronavirus.
Breaking down the barriers to employment
Will virtual working lead to a greater spread of geographical talent? Partner with GatenbySanderson’s interim leadership practice Craig Clarke looks at the possibilities.
Our council's culture is thriving remotely
With her councils' staff working from home, Gill Kneller says she has 'seen a burst of creativity with staff finding solutions to challenges and embracing completely different ways of doing things - along with different ways of connecting'.
Future-proofing Walsall
Remote working can bring challenges, says Dr Helen Paterson. But Walsall MBC’s Workforce Strategy had already started to build agility and helped it become a council that is digital by design.
Persist and survive
We will get through and beyond the ‘six-month wall’ and survive this crisis by working together and looking out for each other, says president of the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services James Bullion.
Councils told to tackle funding through diversity
Increasing the level of diversity in local government is key to tackling the sector’s funding gap, according to one expert in the field.
Helping staff speak up on gambling
Wigan MBC is the first local authority in the country to sign a charter pledging to support employees struggling with gambling. Alison Mckenzie-Folan explains why the council is leading the way.
Stepping up to the challenge of socially distanced teams
With remote working likely to remain for the foreseeable future, what do leaders need to do to ensure their teams continue to function well and develop? Dr Simon Willson looks at ways in which this might be done.
Solace president steps down as South Tyneside chief
Solace president Martin Swales has stepped down as chief executive of South Tyneside Council, after ten years in post.
Taking steps to a more inclusive organisation
Nancy Scott and Barry McNeill look at the topic of ‘organisational belonging’ – is it top of your to-do list or just a ‘nice to have’?
private sector view
People are being displaced from jobs in the private sector, says practice director executive recruitment at Penna Enterprise Charles Wilson, 'but there are also opportunities in the public sector in interesting and varied roles'.
The new (ab)normal?
Green Park’s Neil Lupin looks at one of the most common terms heard since the pandemic began, and asks just what ‘new normal’ means in local government.
Personal resilience in tough times
Drawing on her experience of dealing with the aftermath of terror attacks, Louise Neilan emphasises the need for senior managers to support their communities and teams, and themselves – especially during the pandemic crisis.
Putting the spotlight on pension strain
Since the proposals for an exit payment cap of £95,000 emerged, ALACE has consistently argued that pension strain ‘should not be counted or should be counted in a fair way’, says Tracey Lee.
A people-based approach to diversity and inclusion
Westminster City Council’s BAME staff network was formed to ensure representation for those most affected by feelings of racial inequality. Bernard Bruce says it has already led to significant culture change.
Tackling inequalities is everyone’s business in Birmingham
Tomorrow’s report to Birmingham City Council’s Cabinet makes it clear that tackling inequalities is everyone’s battle and everyone’s business, says Cllr John Cotton.
Good news for the nice
When it comes to climbing the corporate career ladder being nasty or nice won’t determine your advancement, says Blair McPherson.
£95k exit payment cap to come into force before 2021
The Government plans to bring its proposed £95,000 cap on public servants’ exit payments into force before the end of this calendar year, The MJ understands.
Championing diversity and inclusion
Hertfordshire has published a refreshed diversity and inclusion strategy. Owen Mapley says he is determined to help make these ‘more than just glossy documents’.
York to scrap chief post after 'strong advice' from LGA
York City Council is scrapping its chief executive post in favour of a chief operating officer (COO) in a bid to save cash.
