Taking a local approach
Friends, this is my last column ahead of the local elections and our group elections that follow.
group leaders
Protecting our environment
Without doubt, the coronavirus pandemic has made us re-evaluate our relationship with the environment and has led us to identify the associated threat of biodiversity loss and climate change.
Challenging false vaccine information
I was delighted to see the LGA running a number of webinars recently on vaccine communications and tackling hesitancy and misinformation.
Benefits uplift should be made permanent
Thousands of families rely on universal credit to pay for day-to-day essentials including food, clothing and utilities.
Lack of clarity on tier system
Many in local government welcomed the announcement of the new tier system a few weeks ago, hoping that it would bring simplicity and clarity to councils, residents and businesses subject to restrictions.
Take care of yourselves
We are working more from home and, sorry to say, for longer periods of time.
Three-tier system ‘as clear as mud’
We saw the Prime Minister announce in October the new three-tier system, under which every area of the country will be classified as ‘medium’, ‘high’ or ‘very high’ risk during the continuing COVID-19 crisis.
Working together as Independents
As local lockdowns continue to be put in place, including the whole of Wales, we have again asked the Government to ensure local leaders are at the forefront of decision-making – something ministers have agreed and need to uphold.
Violence against women and girls
The horrific murder of Sarah Everard brought national attention to the issue of women’s safety, which was further exacerbated by the police’s heavy-handed response to the peaceful vigil at Clapham Common.
Families hit by council tax bombshell
Happy new year to everyone working in local government.