Throughout my time living and working in Scotland, I've been proud of our sense of community and the way our local councils and partners step up in times of need. Recently though, I've come to realise that there's a hidden layer to how local government operates, especially during major emergencies – one that most of us don't truly understand or appreciate. And that we need to discuss this more openly. The face of local government is changing, not just in terms of policy or leadership, but in the way that councils quietly build resilience by contracting out work to tackle crises head-on.
It's no secret that the world feels more unpredictable than ever. Severe weather, public health threats, and even logistical disruptions have highlighted the need for robust emergency responses. In Scotland, local authorities are reassessing their roles, not just as administrators but as facilitators of community resilience. This transformation isn't just about adapting to new challenges; it's a strategic, behind-the-scenes evolution that puts local knowledge and resources at the heart of crisis management.
