Truth about Local Government

This episode features Graham Nelson discussing the role of planning policy in local government, focusing on sustainable development, housing shortages, and economic growth.

Callum Glendinning from Daisy Education discusses the societal impact of reading literacy, revealing that low literacy costs the UK £81 billion annually and affects political engagement.

This episode features Andy Algar discussing how to make development happen in local government, focusing on aligning vision with political priorities and practical strategies for new politicians.

Truth about Local Government focuses on power-sharing in UK councils, with Abigail Gallop of the LGA arguing that multi-party councils are becoming the norm rather than the exception.

An interview with an interim CEO discussing how to lead effectively in local government during transitions.

Interview with authors of a guide on asset-based community development for local government.

Truth about Local Government examines how organisations handle conflicting needs between neurodivergent colleagues, from ADHD fidgeting to misophonia.

["More than 75% of line managers in Northwest Employers' report have supported neurodivergent colleagues, yet only 43% feel confident doing so.", "Matt Masters discusses that gap with Kev Collier of Northwest Employers, Sarah Crozier, Associate Professor in Occupational Psychology at Manchester Metropolitan University, and Karen Roberts of Northwest Employers, using the report 'Neurodiversity at Work, Line Managers' Experiences of Support Provision and Skills Gaps Within Northwest Local Government.'", "The guests link the problem to inconsistent HR guidance, 78% saying the physical environment creates barriers, and disclosures that often arrive only after performance concerns appear.", "The practical response they push includes mandatory training, senior leadership buy-in, psychological safety, and workplace adjustments that let councils support neurodivergent staff earlier."]

Discussion on traits of effective interim leaders in local government.

A discussion on the role of culture in local government transformation and placemaking.

An interview with a former public services leader discussing the need for supportive, collaborative leadership to address complex challenges in local government.

Discussion on challenges local governments face in achieving net zero targets, including resource constraints and technical capability.

An interview with Martin Cockramon about applying punk ideology to challenge conventions and drive reform in local government.

Truth About Local Government host Matt interviews Nick Lamb about moving from a nearly 30-year private-sector property career into interim local-government regeneration roles.

The Truth About Local Government examines Ashley Pryor's 40-plus-year highways career, beginning at Oxford County Council in 1979 and later including Solihull.

Alison North, Somerset West and Taunton Council’s Deputy Chief Executive, argues that councils need agility after the pandemic and the war in Ukraine.