Truth about Local Government

Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) isn’t just about drawing new boundaries it’s about what happens in the first 100 days when governance design, delegation, and political confidence collide with real-world planning decisions. In this episode, we talk to Rowan Cole , Thought Leader on LGR & Founder and Director of COALFACE , about what truly determines whether reorganisation improves plannin...

In this episode of Truth About Local Government , I sit down with Averil Price author of The Legacy Coach: Your Next Chapter, Your Legacy, Your Way , available on Amazon. After more than two decades as a Local Authority Director, Averil made the bold transition to running her own consultancy, Avie Consultancy, where she helps public sector leaders navigate career changes, promotions, or retirement...

In this episode of Truth About Local Government , Matthew Masters speaks with Professor Rafaela Neiva , Professor in Public Sociology at Liverpool Business School and a leading expert in cultural policy and social innovation. Rafaela’s work sits at the intersection of arts, health, and business, shaping strategies that have influenced European Capitals of Culture, improved public health, and drive...

Transformation in local government is often framed as a necessity driven by financial pressures, rising demand, and the need to modernise services. Yet, despite widespread efforts, success remains elusive. According to ChangingPoint, 70% of organisational change initiatives fail , and only one-third fully meet their intended goals . In this episode, Ashley Roper and Steve Mawn explore what council...

In this we had the pleasure of speaking with Emma Riley, Head of Strategic Partnerships at Barrett Values Centre, to explore the transformative power of organisational culture. Emma shares insights from her work at the intersection of strategy, leadership, and values, highlighting how culture can be a driving force in successful change processes. The conversation delves into the Barrett Values Cen...

In this episode of Truth About Local Government , Matt Masters sits down with Councillor Mike Ross, Leader of Hull City Council, to explore the city’s ambitious plans for infrastructure, regeneration, and inclusive growth. Mike shares his personal journey into politics, the values that guide his leadership, and the council’s vision for a “cleaner, safer and fairer” Hull. Listeners will hear about:...

Transformation is often seen as the fix for inefficiencies and budget pressures in local government, but many programmes fail to deliver lasting change. In this episode, Claire Symonds, Ashley Roper, and Meena Kishinani explore why. Claire Symonds (ex-Redbridge CEO) argues that transformation must be a continuous mindset, not a time-limited project. She highlights how vital leadership is in succes...

In this episode we sit down with Alexander Mileman , Founder of Achieving for Action to explore the transformative potential of the Social Care Value Index project. They discuss how local authorities are sitting on a goldmine of data that could radically improve outcomes in social care if only it were used more effectively. From identifying what truly works to exposing inefficiencies, this convers...

In this episode, we speak with Councillor Cameron Holloway, the Leader of Cambridge City Council, about the exciting developments and pressing challenges facing one of the UK’s most iconic cities. From government-backed growth ambitions to acute infrastructure constraints, Holloway shares his vision for a fairer, greener Cambridge. We explore how the council is tackling poverty, protecting the env...

This special crossover episode features Matt Masters , host of The Truth About Local Government , in conversation with Kirsty Hunt , host of Governance Matters a podcast produced by South East Employers that explores the building blocks of good governance in local government. In Season 2, Episode 5 , Matt interviews Kirsty to unpack the concept of incremental creep the slow, often unnoticed erosio...

In this energising episode of The Truth About Local Government , Matthew Masters speaks with Jonathan Stephenson, Chief Executive of Brentwood Borough and Rochford District Councils, and the driving force behind the Public Sector Challenge. Together, they explore: The origins and evolution of the Public Sector Challenge as a movement for wellbeing, resilience and connection. Lessons from merging t...

In this episode, Matthew Masters sits down with Joe Fyans, Head of Research at Localis, to discuss Ride the Wave a major new project supported by CIPFA and Core Cities . The report explores how local authorities can balance the government’s push for locally led growth with the need for fiscal responsibility , especially in the context of urban renewal and investment risk. Joe also shares a preview...

In this episode, we had the privilege of interviewing Hannah Dalton , Independent Councillor and Leader of Epsom and Ewell Borough Council, to explore the unique and often underappreciated role of independent councillors in the UK’s local government system. They discuss the challenges of operating outside party politics, the opportunities for community-led decision-making, and how independents can...

In this episode, we speak with Sara Harrup , Executive Coach for Neurodivergent Professionals, Board Chair, Non-Executive Director, and Inclusive Governance Expert. As an openly autistic ADHDer, Sara brings lived experience and professional insight into how neurodivergent leaders can thrive in high-pressure environments. We explore her coaching practice, her governance work, and her advocacy for n...

In this episode we sit down with Councillor Arooj Shah, Leader of Oldham Council, to explore the borough’s bold regeneration plans, recent service improvements, and the challenges of modern civic leadership. Arooj shares her personal journey into politics, the values driving her leadership, and how Oldham is tackling identity politics, financial pressures, and community cohesion head-on. Listeners...

In this episode we sit down with Cllr Danielle Belton, Leader of Rochford District Council, to explore the exciting initiatives shaping the district’s future and the challenges that come with them. From town centre regeneration and community empowerment to resisting unsustainable housing pressures, Danielle shares her vision for a member-led, transparent administration. We discuss the council’s ne...

In this episode, we dive into one of the biggest challenges in organisational development: how to ensure that learning actually leads to behaviour change. We’re joined again by Kevan Collier , Strategic Learning and Organisational Development Lead at North West Employers, to explore how the COM-B model which stands for Capability, Opportunity, and Motivation – Behaviour can be used as a powerful f...

In this episode we interview Cllr Millie Earl , Leader of Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole (BCP) Council , to explore how local leadership is navigating financial adversity, driving regeneration, and empowering communities. Cllr Earl discusses the council’s strategic vision, including place-based regeneration, community governance reform, and the challenges posed by a significant SEND deficit...

In this episode we speak with Joe Fyans, Head of Research at Localis, to explore the reality behind the government’s rhetoric on locally-led economic growth. With devolution deals, investment zones, and levelling-up funding all pointing to a place-based approach, are councils truly equipped financially, structurally, and strategically to deliver? Joe shares insights from Localis research, highligh...

In this episode of The Truth About Local Government , we sit down with Cllr John Merry CBE , Chair of Key Cities and Deputy City Mayor of Salford , to explore the pivotal role cities can play in meeting the UK Government’s ambitious target of building 1.5 million new homes by the end of this Parliament. As part of our ongoing research project, Turbocharging Housebuilding in Cities and Urban Areas...

In this episode, Matthew Masters is joined by Cathy Palmer, Director of Regeneration Delivery at Walker Sime, to explore the critical ingredients that determine whether a masterplan succeeds or fails. With a career spanning both local government and consultancy, Cathy brings a rare dual perspective to the conversation. Her work at Walker Sime, particularly through the Regen Delivery service, focus...

In this episode, we sit down with Mark Ryder, the Executive Director of Communities at Warwickshire County Council, to discuss the successful delivery of three new train stations in the region. Mark shares the challenges and triumphs of these major infrastructure projects, offering valuable advice for other local authorities looking to undertake similar initiatives. From planning and funding to co...

In this episode, we interview Mark Ryder, Executive Director for Communities , at Warwickshire County Council to delve into the creation and impact of the Warwickshire Skills Hub . This dedicated space supports businesses, schools, and communities in developing a well-skilled population that meets the evolving needs of the local economy. Mark discusses the objectives, vision, and tailored support...

In this inaugural episode, we explore how local government leaders can harness the power of data, evidence, and insights to better manage and motivate their teams. Our guest, Kevan Collier , Strategic Learning and Organisational Development Lead at North West Employers, shares his expertise on using people analytics to drive performance, foster engagement, and build a culture of continuous improve...

In this episode we are joined by Joe Fyans, Head of Research at Localis, to unpack the political and policy implications of Angela Rayner’s departure and Steve Reed’s appointment as Shadow Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities. What does this reshuffle signal for Labour’s approach to local government? Joe and Matthew explore the potential impact on key issues including: Loca...