Combined authorities aren’t bigger councils, they’re fundamentally different. Their political complexity, investment‑led finance model, and partnership‑driven culture demand a distinct mindset. For s151 and s73 officers, success relies on understanding mayoral ambition, long‑term programmes, and regional impact. Those who embrace this environment can shape a region’s future; those who don’t will struggle.

An in depth analysis of the Government’s decision to postpone local elections in nine English counties. Explore why the pause was introduced, how it links to devolution and local government reorganisation, and the democratic concerns it raises. This balanced review examines the risks, benefits, constitutional implications, and the wider impact on accountability, public trust, and the future of English local governance.

Public service reform demands whole-system thinking, not siloed fixes. Local government, NHS, charities, and housing providers overlap, yet reforms often ignore these interdependencies. True transformation requires shared outcomes, integrated governance, data-driven collaboration, and cultural change while maintaining frontline delivery mid-flight. Are leaders ready to embrace complexity and design connected systems for better communities?

In local government, we are rightly focused on seismic shifts reorganisation, devolution, funding formula changes, housing targets, and...

In the evolving landscape of British politics, few issues are as pressing or as promising as the question of devolution. As the United...

In a recent conversation with Paul Bell—National Officer at UNISON and Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care at Lewisham...

As the wave of Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) continues to sweep across England, attention is increasingly turning to the...

In today’s competitive and fast-evolving local government landscape, the ability to craft and communicate a compelling story about a...

In a time of significant transformation for local government in the UK, Collaborate CIC is leading the charge towards more inclusive,...

Local government stands at a crossroads. With rising demand, shrinking budgets, and increasingly complex social challenges, the sector is...

In an era of sweeping transformation across the public sector, local authorities in the UK are facing unprecedented challenges—and...

Change is a constant in public service. Whether it’s local government reorganisation, devolution, or a shift in political leadership,...

When a new combined authority (CA) is formed, public attention often gravitates towards one figure: the Mayor. This is understandable....