Carolyn Downs
Carolyn Downs is chief executive Brent LBC and former chief executive of the Local Government Association
Showing our true colours in Brent
Chief executive Carolyn Downs says that in setting aside a 'modest amount of money' for a rainbow crossing, Brent LBC is showing its true colours as an open, diverse and accepting borough.
Taking on the climate emergency starts with community
Brent is aiming for carbon neutrality by 2030, ‘but to drive meaningful change we must also bring our communities on the journey with us ’, says Carolyn Downs.
PluggedIn - Carolyn Downs
LGA chief executive ponders the implications of the Barker Commission's call for integrated, 21st century health and social care.
PluggedIn by Carolyn Downs
LGA chief executive says the sector needs to tell a better story so the public understands the benefits of care and health integration.
PluggedIN - Carolyn Downs
LGA chief executive writes on how councils should step up in responding to the housing crisis.
Plugged In: We are reaching a tipping point
Over the course of 2013 I have travelled the length and breadth of the country talking and listening to councils of all sizes, types and political control.
PluggedIN: Carolyn Downs
LGA chief executive explains Smith Square's Autumn Submission and importance of new money to fund future care services.
PluggedIN: Carolyn Downs
Welfare ministers must give councils sufficient resources to meet projected increase in demand for local support, says LGA chief executive.
PluggedIN Carolyn Downs
LGA chief executive outlines the benefits of better integrating children's health and care services.
Communications breakdown
Public services are going through a period of great change, residents need to know what is going on in their local area, says Carolyn Downs.
Protecting public services
Significant cuts to council budgets will mean the most efficient public services will deteriorate, according to Carolyn Downs.
The make-or-break year for adult social care
Carolyn Downs says 2013 will be a make-or-break year for adult social care to achieve long-term reform.
Residents' satisfaction matters most
Carolyn Downs looks at the results of a recent quarterly poll of residents' satisfaction.
Fast solutions for the economy
Local government has the potential to provide a spark for economic recovery,says Carolyn Downs.
The shortage of primary school places
With councils holding a key role in education, a focus on ensuring there are enough places has never been more important,says Carolyn Downs.
Local government is ahead of the game
Carolyn Downs looks at the issue of how the government plans to end national pay rates for public sector workers.
The Welfare Reform Bill heralds a big change
Carolyn Downs looks at how the Welfare Reform Bill could herald a profound change in the role of local authorities.
Looking ahead for 2012
LGA chief executive Carolyn Downs predicts the year for councils.
