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“Homelessness is one of the biggest and most urgent pressures facing local government. As more and more people turn to their council for support and councils have little choice but to resort to costly temporary accommodation, local authorities are spending less on funding homelessness prevention. "

“This survey paints a deeply concerning picture of the challenges faced by families with babies and young children. Rising levels of need and complexity, coupled with a decline in the health visiting workforce, are leaving many without the critical early support that can transform lives.

“Government investment in our places and people is therefore key to supporting long term sustainable, inclusive economic growth which brings increased prosperity to every part of the country.”

“Any instance of violence against women and girls is shocking, saddening, and unacceptable. It is good that the majority of commitments made in the previous government’s VAWG Strategy and Domestic Abuse Plan have been met, but there is still much progress needed in tackling the issue."

“We are pleased Ofsted has acted on our calls for a much greater focus on inclusion, and on whether a setting is playing a meaningful role in supporting vulnerable and disadvantaged children, including those with special educational needs and disabilities."

"Councils' Trading Standards teams work hard to provide effective inspections and ensure that products on sale to the public are safe for consumption."

“Extra money for councils next year, including compensation for employer national insurance contributions increases, will help meet some of the cost and demand pressures they face but still falls short of what is desperately needed to cover them all."

“These stark statistics should act as a wake-up call about the impact of alcohol on our general health, including for those with alcohol-related conditions, such as reaching out to people who have not yet been in treatment.

Today’s announcement on local elections as part of local government reorganisation, and which areas will be fast-tracked for devolution, will remove the uncertainty for local areas affected.

The LGA's submission provides a clear business case for increased investment, financial support and a package of measures to give our members more tools to help communities thrive.