This article explores the realities of becoming a Chair or NED in the housing sector, drawing on insights from Yvonne Castle, Chair of Railway Housing. It highlights the importance of genuine commitment, strong relationships, regulatory awareness, resident focus, and proactive development. A practical guide for aspiring governance leaders who want to serve with purpose, curiosity, and courage.

Awaab’s Law sets strict housing safety standards, but UK councils face major challenges in implementation. This article explores the cost implications, staffing and contractor shortages, and rising demand for temporary accommodation. Featuring real council case studies, it highlights the urgent need for strategic investment and collaboration to meet legal obligations and protect tenants.

Local government reorganisation isn’t the wrong idea it’s happening in the wrong order. Councils face financial collapse due to four broken systems: children’s social care, SEND, temporary accommodation, and adult social care. This blog argues that structural reform must follow service reform, not precede it. Fix the leaks before reshaping the bath. Discover why sustainability depends on repairing what’s draining local government dry.

The Director of Housing is one of the most influential roles in local government combining strategic leadership, technical compliance, and community impact. Success means mastering financial oversight, political navigation, and resident engagement, while avoiding pitfalls like rushed change and micromanagement. It’s not just about managing homes it’s about shaping lives with empathy, integrity, and purpose. Lead with confidence, grounded in truth and fairness.

In this episode of The Truth About Local Government, Councillor John Merry CBE shares how cities can lead the charge in meeting the UK’s target of 1.5 million new homes. From the transformation of Salford Quays to the role of Key Cities, John emphasises the need for public-private partnerships, planning certainty, and building communities not just homes. “We need to build the infrastructure… not just properties in an empty field.”

The United Kingdom stands at a pivotal moment in its planning and housing history. With housing affordability deteriorating,...

“For the last 20 to 25 years, this is the longest I’ve been out of prison. I was released in October last year. I’m now living in my own...

In the latest episode of The Truth About Local Government , I had the pleasure of speaking with Joe Fyans, Head of Research at Localis,...

In the intricate and often opaque world of local government finance, few distinctions carry as much weight – yet remain as frequently...

In the corridors of local government, where policy meets people and budgets meet reality, a quiet but urgent crisis is unfolding. It’s...

As the UK continues to grapple with a persistent housing crisis, local authorities are increasingly seeking innovative, flexible, and...

In today’s dynamic and increasingly complex landscape of housing and urban development, local authorities and housing providers across...