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Resilience for Independent Councillors: A Practical Guide to Surviving and Thriving in Local Government
Independent councillors face unique pressures: high visibility, low structural support, and emotionally demanding community roles. This guide explores what resilience really means for independents, how to assess your strengths and vulnerabilities, and evidence‑based strategies to stay effective, grounded, and sustainable. Strengthen your resilience to lead with clarity, purpose, and long‑term impact.
Dec 28, 202518 min read


Geopolitics, Local Government, and the New Economic Frontier: Why Councils Must Rethink International Partnerships
Local authorities must rethink their role in a shifting, multipolar world. Drawing on Tim Marshall’s geopolitics, councils need global partnerships, strong economic development leadership, and long‑term strategies to attract investment, build resilience, and secure future prosperity. Understanding global trends and acting confidently is now essential for place‑based growth, helping communities thrive amid rapid global change.
Dec 28, 202525 min read


Facing the Fire: How Local Government Officers and Councillors Can Effectively Handle Angry Community Members
Discover how UK local government officers and councillors can effectively handle angry residents. Explore causes of public frustration, rising abuse trends, and best practice strategies including SHIELD principles, complaint handling, safeguarding policies, and resilience training. Learn how councils can foster a culture of safety and support while protecting democratic engagement.
Oct 26, 20256 min read


Excelling as a Cabinet Member in Local Government: A Guide for Councillors
Cabinet Members in UK local government play a vital role in shaping public services, policy, and community outcomes. This guide explores the scope of the role, key responsibilities, and how councillors can excel from day one. Learn what to avoid, how to engage with scrutiny, and how to lead strategically. Featuring lessons from the sector, performance insights, and expert quotes, this blog supports councillors in delivering effective, accountable leadership for their communit
Oct 20, 20258 min read


Protecting Freedom of Speech While Building Social Cohesion: A Local Government Dilemma
In an era marked by polarising global events, rising misinformation, and deepening social divides, local government faces a profound and...
Oct 6, 202512 min read


How to Be an Effective Opposition Councillor in Local Government
Local government is the bedrock of democracy in the United Kingdom. It is where decisions are made that directly affect people’s lives...
Sep 28, 202511 min read


Leading Through the Storm: Resilience and Recovery After a Section 114 Notice
Section 114 notices are no longer rare events. As financial pressures mount across the local government sector from rising demand and...
Sep 8, 20255 min read


The Power of Storytelling in Local Politics: Lessons from Cllr Gavin Callaghan
In today’s fast-moving, hyper-connected world, where public trust in institutions is increasingly fragile and attention spans are...
Jul 30, 20258 min read


Future-Proofing Democracy: Attracting and Retaining Councillors in a Changing Landscape
In an era marked by political turbulence, digital saturation, and shifting societal expectations, the role of local councillors has never...
Jul 11, 20257 min read


The Power of Deep Listening in Local Government: Why It Matters More Than Ever
In the fast-paced, high-stakes world of local government, where decisions impact communities, budgets, and futures, one skill remains...
Jun 3, 20254 min read


The Courage to Speak: Why Difficult Conversations Are Essential in Local Government Transformation
Local government stands at a crossroads. With rising demand, shrinking budgets, and increasingly complex social challenges, the sector is...
Jun 1, 20255 min read


You’ve Been Elected—Now What? A Practical Guide for New Councillors in the UK
Congratulations! You’ve just been elected as a councillor. Whether you stood for a major party, a new political movement like Reform, or...
May 29, 20255 min read


From Mandate to Delivery: Why Building Strong Relationships with Council Officers is Essential for Elected Members
When you take the decision to run for elected office, you are stepping into a role of immense responsibility. You are no longer just a...
May 28, 20255 min read


Interviewing with Integrity: A Guide for Elected Members
When elected members are involved in senior appointments, the stakes are high. These decisions shape the future of the organisation,...
May 28, 20253 min read


Ambition and Parenthood: Thriving in Local Government While Raising a Family
Balancing a fulfilling career in local government with the demands of family life is no small feat. Whether you're a council officer...
May 27, 20254 min read


Turning Tension into Progress: Navigating Difficult Conversations in Local Government
In the dynamic world of local government, difficult conversations are not just part of the job—they are central to it. Whether you’re an...
May 26, 20256 min read


How to Become a Local Councillor in the UK: A Guide for Aspiring Community Leaders
If you’re passionate about your community and want to make a tangible difference, becoming a local councillor might be the perfect path...
May 26, 20253 min read


Life After Politics: How Elected Members Can Transition into Meaningful Careers
Leaving political office can feel like stepping off a moving train. For many elected members, the role has been all-consuming—filled with...
May 25, 20257 min read


Making Conferences Count: A Guide for Local Government Professionals
In the world of local government, professional development is not just about formal training or qualifications—it’s also about the...
May 19, 20254 min read


Advice for Newly Elected Council Members
You have campaigned hard, your passion is radiating through your speeches and you have finally secured your position as an elected member...
May 2, 20255 min read
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