Huge discrepancies between the cost of children’s services in different authorities have hampered lobbying efforts. Heather Jameson looks at the latest report which debunks the myth that it’s all down to inefficiency.
With the announcement of the Government’s CONTEST counter-terrorism strategy following on from other major reviews into policing and safety, Mark Conrad looks at what it all means for local authorities.
The National Audit Office has released another damning report on the rollout of Universal Credit. Patrick O’Brien breaks down the findings and speaks to key figures in the sector.
Mark Conrad reports from a recent round table tackling the issue of effective decision-making in local government.
The report on the Grenfell Tower fire proposes establishing a joint competent authority, comprising local authority building standards, fire and rescue authorities and the Health and Safety Executive, to manage safety risks in high-rise tower blocks [..]
With local authorities increasingly concerned about cyber security, The MJ and BT undertook a survey to gauge the level of preparation. Michael Burton reports on the key findings.
In the second round table discussion hosted by The MJ and the National Audit Office, participants discussed the challenging relationship between the health and social care sectors. Michael Burton reports
A serious case review into sexual exploitation in Newcastle has revealed a raft of learning for public bodies, national government and society. Sam Clayden speaks to the reports’ author and the agencies involved.
The social care green paper announcement has reinforced the work that needs to be done to make the system work. Sam Clayden explains.
As we prepare for Brexit, local government’s role in boosting growth will become even more crucial. Heather Jameson looks at the latest report from think tank Localis on delivering the industrial strategy.
A new study says public services, especially local government, should be radically overhauled saving £46bn in back office costs by exploiting technology now widely used by the global online multinationals. Michael Burton reports.
Can councils continue to provide quality services on the frontline with less and less resources – or have efficiencies now been stretched to the limit? Paul O’Brien and Debbie Johns outline the latest performance data and discuss how such [..]
Councils currently operate in a climate which ties their hands, but the constraints imposed here do not apply in many European countries, writes Cllr Graham Chapman
The closure of two important children’s charities raises questions about the voluntary sector and its relationship with local government, says Mark Whitehead.
