Briefings and responses

The Sentencing Bill proposes significant reforms to custodial and community sentencing, including a presumption against short custodial sentences. These measures aim to reduce prison overcrowding and improve public safety; however, they may also have an impact on how criminal behaviour by an elected member is dealt with.

Our call on Government to support the goal of ending homelessness for good.

The government held a consultation on reform to the Decent Homes Standard which currently applies to social housing. The new standard will also apply to privately rented housing. It was open from 2nd July to 12th September 2025. This consultation seeks to update the Decent Homes Standard implemented in 2001.

The Government held a consultation on improving the energy efficiency of socially rented homes in England through the introduction of a Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard of EPC Band C to tackle fuel poverty and lower carbon emissions. This consultation was open from 2 July to 12 September 2025.

We look forward to working with the Government on an approach that enables councils to invest in council tax collection practices that effectively balances the collection of vital revenues with measures that help those struggling to pay.

Increasing spend with SMEs and VCSEs

The LGA welcomes NHS England’s LGBT+ Health Evidence Review as a timely and necessary initiative to address persistent health inequalities experienced by LGBT+ communities across England. Local government plays a vital role in shaping inclusive, community-based health and wellbeing services, and we are committed to ensuring that the voices and experiences of LGBT+ people are reflected in national policy and practice.

This Government held a consultation seeking views on how to implement Social Rent convergence, as part of the government’s 10 year rent settlement for social housing. It was open from 2 July to 27 August 2025. This follows the consultation on future social housing rent policy that the government carried out between October and December 2024.

This open letter on permitted development rights was sent to the Secretary of State on 26 August 2025 and published on the 1 September.

The Modern Service Framework for Dementia and Frailty intends to reduce unwarranted variation and narrow inequality for those living with dementia, and will set national standards for dementia care and redirect National Health Service priorities to provide the best possible care and support. The LGA stressed that it is essential that Modern Service Frameworks are developed in partnership with local authorities and reflect the role and responsibilities of councils in supporting people with mental health needs or dementia in the community.