Martin Ford
Future Forum North: Rotherham flood response hampered by scandal
The child abuse scandal in Rotherham continues to cast a long shadow over the work of the council - even affecting its work to tackle last month’s flooding.
Future Forum North: Workplace cultures fail to keep pace with technology
The digital revolution in the modern workplace must now be matched by a culture shift, it has been argued.
Bed delays to hit 2.5m days since last election
More than 2.5m bed days will have been lost in the NHS due to a lack of social care since the last General Election, new analysis has concluded.
General Election manifestos ‘not credible’ on social care
Experts have cast doubt on election pledges to fix the social care system.
Infrastructure roll-out poses 'reputational risk' to Milton Keynes
Milton Keynes councillors have been told the authority faces financial and reputational risk over the roll-out of fibre optic broadband in the town.
Retro-fitting councils around the 21st century
The MJ and BT recently conducted a survey of local authority directors to find out how they believe 5G will affect their organisations. The conclusions formed part of the discussion at a roundtable debate. Martin Ford reports.
Demand for supported housing drives profits at Civitas
Civitas Social Housing has reported a surge in profits driven by a need for supported accommodation.
Tory state aid proposals spark controversy
Questions have been raised over plans to loosen state aid rules post-Brexit under a Conservative government.
Ofsted reform plans come under fire
Proposals to intensify the inspection regime for schools have been attacked by teaching unions.
Camden in £130m High Court claim against contractors
Legal action has been launched by Camden LBC to recover costs of £130m against a group of contractors.
Review questions benefits of shared services provider
A review of LGSS found ‘no evidence’ the councils benefited through sharing some services.
One third of 2017 Scottish revaluation appeals unresolved
Almost three quarters of business rates revaluation appeals in Scotland have so far resulted in no change of value, according to newly-published figures.
Nine in 10 care directors concerned at winter pressures
More than 90% of adult care directors are concerned at their ability to cope with winter pressures or provider failure, a survey has found.
Leading light in regeneration to leave Manchester City Council
Eddie Smith has announced he will stand down as strategic director of growth and development.
Viridor reaps rewards from recycling and waste treatment
Lucrative recycling and waste contracts at Viridor have driven up profits for its parent company Pennon Group.
New chief executive appointed at Argyll and Bute
Argyll and Bute Council has announced the appointment of Pippa Milne as chief executive.
Millions join surge to register to vote in General Election
More than three million applications have been made during the month between the calling of the election and tonight's deadline to register for December’s poll.
Bristol accused of 'abject failure' over SEND care plans
An overhaul of services for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) is under way at Bristol City Council, after it failed to meet deadlines for families applying for support.
London leaders in devolution call
Local government leaders and think-tanks in the capital have called on General Election candidates to commit to greater devolution.
Councils to make case for further Government flood funds
Local authorities are lobbying Government to provide support for flood-hit families and small businesses whose insurance does not cover the costs of their recovery.