News

“We are pleased the Government has announced this plan as it is vital there is a national strategy for children and young people.

New feedback from councils, published in a new report today, shows that free holiday provision for low-income families improves children’s health and wellbeing and boosts future school attendance.

Senior officers in local government are set to benefit from new digital and AI leadership skills to drive forward transformation in their councils and communities.

“Child poverty not only limits children’s life chances and wellbeing but also imposes significant long-term costs on our economy and society."

"Good quality, safe, and secure digital working and data records that connect people’s health and care are the cornerstone of a modern, integrated sector that puts people at its centre."

“Councils stand ready to support their communities to be active and stay healthy.

The latest figures published today show that the number of adults in contact with treatment services for drug and alcohol misuse in 2024/25 was up by six per cent on the previous year.

“It is right and important that children and families have access to support for SEND in the areas they live and we support measures that work towards that provision.

"Councils are ready to play their part in delivering this national action plan through council-commissioned sexual health clinics, close partnership working, and developing their own locally tailored HIV plans."

Dennis Skinner will retire on 31 December 2025 after 22 years of exceptional leadership within the IDeA and LGA.