Title
SEND
We need an ambitious and genuinely sustainable package of SEND reform
By Rachael Wardell | 18 February 2026
The Government’s decision to take on the bulk of Dedicated Schools Grant deficits provides vital breathing space but will not fix a flawed system on its own, says Rachael Wardell.
FINANCE
Financial reform cannot wait
By Owen Mapley | 18 February 2026
Owen Mapley says the finance settlement provides breathing space for many authorities – but this...
FINANCE
Many district councils will see a cash cut
By James Hood | 16 February 2026
On average district councils face real terms funding reductions at a time of rising demand, and ...
FINANCE
The recovery continues
By Cllr Sir Stephen Houghton | 16 February 2026
Cllr Sir Stephen Houghton says the local government finance settlement is key to delivering faire...
SEND
SEND spending surges by more than £5bn
By Izzy Lepone | 12 February 2026
Council spending on special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) has surged by more than £5b...
FINANCE
The centre must tackle the challenges still faced by counties and unitaries
By Cllr Matthew Hicks | 12 February 2026
The Government’s decision to pay the bulk of SEND deficits is a relief, but sensible decisions on...
FINANCE
Balancing optimism and realism in Wokingham
By Susan Parsonage | 10 February 2026
Susan Parsonage looks at how the revised financial settlement will impact local authorities such ...
FINANCE
Local government now has clarity and a credible way forward on SEND
By Rob Powell | 10 February 2026
Rob Powell says he is ‘relieved and pleased that we now have a meaningful solution’ to English co...
FINANCE
Government to pay off 90% of SEND deficits
By Martin Ford | 09 February 2026
The Government will provide funding for 90% of English councils’ deficits relating to special edu...
IMPOWER INDEX
The Top 10 councils powering ahead on productivity
By Ann McGauran | 05 February 2026
Local government’s leadership may be dealing with a maelstrom of challenges, but the councils who...
SEND
Minister addresses council leaders on SEND reforms
By Martin Ford | 23 January 2026
The minister leading reform of services for children with special educational needs and disabilit...
Executive Director of Place and Customer
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Executive Director of Place and Customer
up to £179,404 per annum
Shape the Future of Essex. Drive climate action. Deliver for our communities. Apply for this job
Director of Social Work and Social Care
£100,731 to £104,625
You will join a values-driven senior leadership team, providing visible and responsive leadership. Apply for this job
Contracts & Procurement Lawyer
£52,194 - £55,323 per annum
An excellent opportunity has arisen within the London Borough of Redbridge for an experienced, Contracts and Procurement Lawyer Apply for this job
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