Truth about Local Government

In this episode, we’re joined by Paul Bell , National Officer at UNISON and Cabinet Member for Health & Adult Social Care at Lewisham Council. With a unique vantage point spanning national policy and local delivery, Paul shares insights into UNISON’s position on Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) and devolution , as outlined in the union’s 2025 Devolution Protocol Report . We explore how de...

In this episode we go behind the scenes with David Atkinson , Director of Planning and Regeneration at Harborough District Council , to explore how his team tackled one of local government’s toughest challenges: recruiting and retaining skilled planning professionals. While many councils continue to rely heavily on agency staff, Harborough has taken a different path—building a strong, permanent te...

In this episode, we’re joined by Charles Hamilton and Rachael Taylor from No Isolation , a pioneering company using technology to tackle loneliness and social isolation—especially among children who are unable to attend school due to long-term illness or other challenges. We explore how their innovative solutions, like the AV1 telepresence robot, are transforming the way children stay connected to...

In this episode of The Truth About Local Government , we sit down with Councillor Amanda Serjeant, Deputy Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, to explore one of the most pressing challenges facing local democracy today: how do we attract and retain new councillors—especially during times of local government reorganisation and devolution? As councils across the UK undergo structural changes and...

In this episode of The Truth About Local Government , we speak with Dr. Thomas Foreman , former Chief Executive and Town Clerk at Thorpe St Andrew Town Council and now a consultant supporting local government and regulators across England and Wales. With Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) reshaping the landscape, we explore the evolving role of Town and Parish Councils. Drawing on his frontline...

In this episode, we sit down with Anne-Marie Bond, Chief Executive of Torbay Council, and Jim Parker, Chair of the Torquay Place Leadership Board, to explore how a clear and compelling place narrative can drive successful regeneration. Discover the strategies behind Torbay’s approach, the role of leadership and collaboration, and the tangible impact on place-shaping aspirations.

In this episode of The Truth About Local Government , mental fitness coach Beth Carr explores how local government professionals can build resilience and emotional strength in demanding roles. Beth shares practical, science-backed techniques to help listeners manage stress, set healthy boundaries, and foster psychological safety in their teams. Through real-world examples and reflective insights,...

In this episode, we explore the critical role of governance in local authority trading companies (LATCOs). Host, Matt Masters sits down with Mark Beacom , Partner in the Board, Real Estate & Financial Officers Practices, to discuss: Why LATCOs need the right Non-Executive Directors (NEDs) How to recruit and structure effective boards The risks of poor governance What good governance looks like...

In this episode, the podcast explores how fractional leadership —where experienced professionals work part-time or on a project basis—can transform local government operations, especially in the built environment sector. David Goodwin discusses how councils and public sector bodies can benefit from accessing high-level expertise without the cost or commitment of full-time hires. Key themes likely...

In this episode, well-being strategist Beth Carr explores the nature of stress , how it’s measured, and how local government professionals can manage it more effectively. She explains the difference between acute and chronic stress, introduces both subjective and objective ways to measure it, and highlights the unique pressures faced in public service roles. Beth shares practical strategies—from m...

In this episode, we sit down with Rebecca Murphy, Chief Executive of Collaborate CIC, to explore their newly finalised report for Test Valley on the case for community and neighbourhood approaches to Local Government Reorganisation. Rebecca shares insights into why this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reset how local government operates—moving away from outdated New Public Management mode...

In this insightful episode, we sit down with Alex Gee , Senior Consultant at CIPFA , to explore the critical role of commercial asset management during periods of local government reorganisation. As councils across the UK face structural changes, the effective management of commercial property portfolios becomes more important than ever. Alex shares practical advice for local government officers o...

In this episode, we delve into the evolving landscape of local government with two leading voices in the field: Aidan Rave , Partner at the Good Governance Institute , and Peter Ware , Partner and Head of Government Sector at Browne Jacobson . Together, we explore how local authorities can maintain strong governance during periods of significant transition—whether through local government reorgani...

In this episode, we sit down with Beth Carr, a renowned Mental Health and Wellbeing Coach, to explore the profound journey of embracing wellness. Beth shares her insights on why it's essential to dig beneath the surface to truly understand and achieve health. We discuss practical strategies to incorporate wellness into your daily routine, helping you unlock your full potential. Get ready to grab y...

In this compelling episode, we sit down with Andrew Pritchard, Chief Executive at Runnymede Borough Council, to explore the emotional journey and challenges that come with local government reorganisation. Andrew shares his honest and heartfelt story about dedicating himself to his role at Somerset West and Taunton Council, putting his all into the organisation, only to face redundancy. He opens up...

In this episode, we dive deep into the essential skills of resilience and adaptability, crucial for thriving in today's ever-changing work environment, especially within local government. Join us as we explore practical strategies to foster these qualities within your local government workforce and develop them within yourself. We are joined by Andy Begley, Chief Executive of Shropshire Council, w...

We interviewed Sue Naughton-Marsh to discuss the development of new and existing senior leaders to effectively tackle the challenges that local authorities will face. Sue emphasises the importance of leadership development in ensuring that local authorities can navigate complex and evolving landscapes. She also identifies key skill gaps she observes in current leaders and provides strategies for a...

In this insightful episode, we sit down with Sir Christopher Haworth to explore the intricacies of being an effective chair. Drawing from his extensive experience and leadership, Sir Christopher shares invaluable tips and strategies on mastering the role of a chair. We delve into the importance of strong leadership, effective communication, and the ability to navigate complex dynamics within a boa...

In this episode, we explore the critical importance of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) in local government. Our discussion begins by reinforcing why EDI is essential for effective governance and community engagement. We outline effective strategies for embedding EDI into the leadership culture of local authorities and emphasize the pivotal role of executive teams in leading these efforts. W...

In this episode, we sit down with Marina Robertson, the former Group Managing Director at Acivico, to explore the intricate journey from strategy formulation to successful delivery in a partnership setting. Marina shares her insights on the challenges and triumphs of leading a diverse team, fostering collaboration, and driving impactful results. Whether you're a seasoned leader or an aspiring prof...

In this episode, we interview Jonny Birkett, Managing Partner (Joint) at Genecon Ltd, to explore the vital question: What does culture mean for place, and why is it so important? We dive into the often-overlooked “dark matter” that weaves between the physical realm, advocating for a shift in perspective—be more gardener, and less architect. Jonny discusses how placemakers and local councils are be...

In this episode, we sit down with Chris Dunning, Chair of Pro Age, to explore the pressing issue of retaining staff as they approach retirement age within local government. Chris shares his insights on the unique challenges faced by older employees and offers practical solutions to ensure their valuable experience and knowledge are not lost. We discuss strategies for creating an inclusive work env...

In this episode, we sit down with Hannah Bartram, Chief Executive of ADEPT, to discuss the innovative "Find Your Path" campaign. Launched on February 24th, this targeted recruitment initiative aims to address critical workforce challenges in local authorities by attracting young people aged 18 to 27 to various roles within local government. We'll explore the campaign's development, its goals, and...

Absolutely loved interviewing Niall Bolger FRSA this morning discussing the evolution of leadership in local government and their complex systems. Our discussion centers on the importance of systems leadership and sustainable adult leadership, emphasising the need for sustainable services leadership. We also cover the critical aspects of leadership development, including technical capability devel...

We interview Sue Naughton-Marsh to explore the complexities of achieving hybrid harmony in the post-pandemic workplace. As organisations settle into 2-3 days a week hybrid model, the balance between engagement and autonomy becomes crucial. Sue discusses the importance of developing a leadership model that supports this balance and helps organisations understand the reasons behind adopting a hybrid...