Truth about Local Government

Truth about Local Government

by Matt Masters

Power, Place & Purpose: JP Spencer on Devolution, Mayors, and Rebalancing Britain

In this episode of The Truth About Local Government, I sit down with JP Spencer, Director of Devolution Policy at Labour Together, to explore the evolving landscape of devolution, mayoral leadership, and regional rebalancing in the UK. We unpack what meaningful devolution really looks like, the role of directly elected mayors in shaping local identity and accountability, and how Labour’s vision for local government could shift the balance of power across the country. Whether you're a council leader, policy thinker, or simply passionate about the future of local democracy this conversation offers sharp insights and bold ideas for what comes next.

Beyond Safe and Legal: Rethinking Local Government Reorganisation

In this episode, Matthew Masters speaks with Jonathan Carr-West, Chief Executive of LGIU, to unpack the deeper truths behind Local Government Reorganisation (LGR). Too often, LGR is treated as a technical exercise, focused on safely and legally creating new councils. But what if we saw it as a rare opportunity to truly transform how local democracy works? Jonathan challenges the status quo, arguing that simply replicating old systems in new structures is like rearranging deck chairs on a sinking ship. Instead, we must ask: Why are we doing this? And more importantly, how can we do it better? Together, they explore: The real purpose behind LGR and why “because central government said so” isn’t enough. How to seize the blank page moment to deliver better services, stronger democracy, and financial sustainability. What true transformation looks like and the barriers we must overcome to get there.

The Cost of Cuts, The Power of Innovation: A Council Leader’s Response to Crisis

In this episode, we sit down with Cllr Elizabeth Campbell, Leader of The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, at a time when local government funding is under intense scrutiny. With councils across the country facing deep financial pressures Kensington and Chelsea among them Cllr Campbell has been a vocal critic of the Government’s proposed funding reforms, which she argues unfairly penalize London boroughs. Amid these challenges, the Council has launched a groundbreaking £100 million initiative to use pension fund investment to purchase up to 250 homes for homeless families an unprecedented move in the UK. We explore how this bold strategy not only addresses the homelessness crisis but also redefines how councils can use their resources to deliver long-term social impact.

More Than a Tick Box: Rethinking Corporate Responsibility

In this episode, Matthew Masters sits down with Natasha Whiles to explore the real meaning of Corporate Responsibility (CR) and why it’s far more than a tick-box exercise. Natasha shares her insights on how CR has evolved, its unique role within local government, and the importance of embedding it into organisational culture. From common pitfalls to practical strategies for optimisation, this conversation offers valuable guidance for leaders looking to make CR meaningful and impactful. Whether you're in the public or private sector, this episode will challenge your assumptions and inspire a more purposeful approach to responsibility.

From Policy to Practice: Devolution, LGR, and the Future of Public Services

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 devolution can empower communities—or risk fragmentation—depending on how it’s implemented. Paul also discusses the importance of workforce voice, equal pay, and democratic accountability in shaping a fairer, more resilient public sector.

Inside the Planning Fix: Harborough’s Strategy to Attract Talent

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 team from the ground up. David shares the council’s strategic approach, the cultural shifts that made it possible, and the practical steps that led to long-term success. Whether you're a council leader, HR professional, or just curious about how local government can innovate, this episode offers valuable insights and replicable lessons.

Connected Through Care: How No Isolation is Reimagining Inclusion for Children

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 their classrooms, friends, and communities. This conversation dives into the real-world impact of their work, the stories behind the tech, and the broader mission to ensure no child is left behind.

Future-Proofing Democracy: Attracting and Retaining Councillors in a Changing Landscape

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 new authorities emerge, we ask: why should people still stand for election? What opportunities do these changes present for fresh leadership, innovation, and community impact? Amanda shares her insights on the evolving role of councillors, the barriers to entry, and what needs to change to ensure local government remains representative, resilient, and ready for the future.

Grassroots Power: The Role of Town & Parish Councils in a Changing Landscape

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 experience and consultancy insights, Thomas shares how these councils are responding to change, the challenges they face, and the opportunities emerging from reorganisation. We discuss how grassroots councils can maintain democratic engagement, build capacity, and influence outcomes in a shifting system—and why their role is more vital than ever in the future of local governance.

Shaping Place, Shaping Futures: How Torbay Council Built a Narrative for Regeneration and Renewal

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.

9 of 36