Truth about Local Government

Fantastic to sit down with the Chief Executive of Real World-Group and Chartered Occupational Psychologist, Juliette Alban-Metcalfe to discuss how leaders can embrace an engaging leadership approach to create and sustain resilience in their teams through their leadership approach and the importance of this as we transition through periods of change.

In this episode, we sit down with Alistair Cunningham OBE, Chief Executive of Tewkesbury Borough Council, to discuss his invaluable advice for the local government community on delivering major projects. Alistair emphasizes the importance of working with communities rather than imposing projects on them, highlighting this approach as key to successful major program delivery. We delve into Alistair...

We interview Sue Naughton-Marsh, a trusted partner in helping CEOs rapidly build cohesive leadership and HR leaders gain C-suite presence. Sue shares her expertise on shaping strategic organisational development (OD) for an agile, flexible, and resilient workforce. The focus of this conversation is on the importance of self-awareness for leaders and how to develop it effectively. Sue discusses pra...

Supporting diversity in our workforce is an ongoing battle. If we look to Afghanistan and women's right, where in the 1920s - King Amanullah Khan's Reforms : pioneered in advocating for women's rights, as did Prime Minister Mohammed Daoud Khan in the 1950 - 1970s continue with Progressive Changes , including the right to vote in the 1964 Constitution. Since the Taliban have risen to power there ha...

It was great to sit down with Dan Cooper Chart. PR MCIPR to delve into the economic opportunity that the East Midlands Freeport poses to future proof the region. Free ports offer a really exciting opportunity to create or stimulate new economic activity in regions where it would otherwise be difficult to. It is important that we have it on our minds eye, when LGR happens in the East Midlands that...

In the latest episode of "Truth about Local Government," Matt Masters interviews Sue Naughton-Marsh to discuss the topic "Leading Through Uncertainty: Essential Support for Leaders Getting Ready for Local Government Reform." Sue Naughton-Marsh shares her insights on the challenges and opportunities that local government leaders face during periods of significant change. She emphasizes the importan...

In this episode, we interview Jonny Birkett, Managing Partner (Joint) at Genecon Ltd, to take a hard look at whether places can truly meet their net zero targets—and why we believe the answer is no. Drawing on 2022 studies, we explore just how far places are from achieving their ambitious climate goals, examine why these commitments were made, and uncover the flaws in current strategies. Jonny hig...

We sit down with Martyn Cockram, a seasoned consultant with over 20 years of experience in delivering transformational change across various sectors, including Corporate, Housing, Commissioning, Education, and Adult and Children’s Services. Martyn shares his insights on how to effectively deliver local government reorganization and transform services by embracing punk ideology. We delve into the p...

In this episode, we sit down with Paul Cluett, Managing Director of Alliance Leisure, to discuss the unexpected collapse of one of their main contractors, ISG, in September. ISG was involved in several critical projects, including new-build leisure centres, government projects, and data centres for major clients like Amazon. Paul shares the immediate impact on Alliance Leisure and their clients, a...

In this episode, we sit down with Darren Ibell, Assistant Director of Asset Management & Development at Broxtowe Council, to explore the critical issue of sustainable employment for ex-offenders within the housing sector. Darren shares his insights on the challenges and opportunities in integrating ex-offenders into the workforce, the role of housing in their rehabilitation, and the innovative...

In this episode, Matt and James Foley from Alliance Leisure discuss how local governments can strategically integrate leisure into their frameworks to benefit communities. They explore the importance of leisure for physical health, mental well-being, and economic growth, highlight current trends like wellness activities and sustainable practices, and provide strategies for effective integration, i...

In this enlightening episode, we sit down with Louise Allen, the award-winning author of the best-selling series Thrown Away Children . Louise is not only a celebrated writer but also an accomplished artist, illustrator, and foster carer. As the CEO of Sparksisterhood.org and someone who grew up in care herself, Louise brings a wealth of personal and professional experience to the table. Join us a...

In this episode, we sit down with Mike Mansfield, the CEO of ProAge, a UK charity dedicated to fostering age-inclusive workplaces and high-performing multigenerational teams. Mike is a seasoned thought leader on longevity, age-inclusion, and multigenerational workplaces. With a rich background that includes establishing the Aegon Center for Longevity and Retirement and authoring numerous reports o...

In session four, we interview Jonny Birkett, Managing Partner (Joint) at Genecon Ltd, to dive into the transformation of the night-time economy in the UK. We explore how and why this sector has evolved and what it means for the future of our towns and city centres. Once dominated by the alcohol industry—which is now facing a crisis—the night-time economy has shifted, altering the very fabric of ur...

In this episode, we sit down with Jonathan Wade, the Head of Spatial Planning at the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. Jonathan brings over 30 years of experience in local government, focusing on policy, design, growth, and delivery . We delve into the transformative power of planning, exploring how it can act as an enabler rather than a blocker in local government. Jonathan shares insights...

In this episode, we delve into the critical role of creative thinking within local government. Our guest, Andy Begley, Chief Executive of Shropshire Council, shares insights on how fostering and sustaining innovation can drive positive change and improve public services. We explore practical strategies for nurturing a culture of creativity, the challenges faced, and the tangible benefits seen with...

Today we interviewed Kate Fairhurst, Director at Summerly Consulting, delving into the complex relationship between political accountability and officer responsibility in local government. The discussion highlights the importance of balancing these two aspects, especially during local government reorganisation. Key points include: Political Accountability : Ensuring elected officials are answerabl...

In this episode we sit down with North East Mayor Kim McGuinness to discuss her ambitious plans to tackle child poverty in the region. With nearly a third of children in the North East living in poverty, Mayor McGuinness shares her insights and strategies for creating a brighter future for these young lives. We delve into the innovative measures being implemented, such as the Mayor’s Childcare Gra...

In this episode, we sit down with Claire Handby to delve into the dynamic intersection of leadership and technology in the realm of public services. We explore how innovative leadership can drive the transformation of government operations, making them more efficient, transparent, and responsive to citizens' needs. Claire shares her insights on the essential leadership qualities required to manage...

In this episode, we sit down with Paul Patterson to explore the intricate process of setting up a Combined Authority (CA), focusing on the East Midlands CA as a case study. Paul shares his expertise on navigating the complexities and challenges involved, from the initial shadow form setup to securing royal assent and preparing for the election of the first mayor. We discuss the critical elements o...

In this episode, we sit down with Chris Henning, Executive Director of Place at Derbyshire County Council, to discuss the pressing housing crisis and the recently published ADEPT Housing Policy Position paper. Chris shares insights on how local authorities can partner with the government to meet ambitious housing targets, improve existing housing stock, and create sustainable, resilient communitie...

In this episode, we sit down with Amal Uddin, to explore the intricacies of delivering a successful disposal program. With extensive experience supporting local authorities, Amal shares his expertise on the key elements that contribute to effective property disposal, the common challenges faced, and the best practices to overcome them. Tune in to gain valuable insights and practical advice on how...

In this episode, we sit down with Jonny Birkett, Managing Partner (Joint) at Genecon Ltd, to explore the evolving priorities in place regeneration. We delve into the critical question: Is social and environmental impact now equally as important as economic growth when regenerating towns, cities, or regions? Jonny shares insights into contemporary approaches to place regeneration, emphasizing that...

In this episode, we sit down with Claire Cookson , the Chief Executive Officer at DFN Project SEARCH , to discuss the critical role of local government, education, and businesses in supporting individuals with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Claire shares her extensive experience and valuable insights on three key topics: Supporting SEND Transition to Employment : Claire discuss...

In this episode, we delve into the pressing challenges faced by the public sector in attracting and retaining young talent. With the private sector often offering higher salaries, the public sector struggles to compete. Additionally, an ageing workforce and a lack of clear career pathways for younger professionals exacerbate the issue. We also explore the role of parents, carers, and teachers in g...