The LGA's media office provides the national voice of local government in England and Wales on the major issues of the day for national, regional and local press.
"We’re pleased to see the inclusion of a ban on Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions which are the primary cause of people presenting to councils as homeless. This is something the LGA has long-called for."
A new 'snapshot' survey by the LGA reveals that councils are calling for the extension of the 'move-on' period, the time between an asylum seeker receiving a decision on their application and having to leave Home Office funded accommodation, to ease the financial impact on Local Authorities.
“It is encouraging that the new Minister has signalled he is open to looking again at flexibility around virtual attendance at council meetings – something the LGA has been calling for since 2021."
Alastair Campbell, currently Interim Director of Communications and Engagement at Southwark Council, has been appointed as Interim Director of Communications and will join the LGA from 2 September for six months.
“It is with relief that we have not so far seen a repeat of the extremist far-right violence, racism and thuggish behaviour that has brought fear and distress to so many people and blighted communities up and down the country.
“Councils want to turn the tide of rising homelessness. A genuine cross-departmental approach to tackling this crisis, as part of a long-term government strategy, is key with councils given the powers and resources needed to address the national shortage of affordable housing.”
Cllr Louise Gittins, Chair of the Local Government Association said: “The unrest and violence we have seen around the country has been deplorable. As always, councils are striving to unite communities and not divide them and are leading local responses to protect communities from those who seek to sow division.
“While it has been encouraging to see the community spirit and response in the wake of these awful incidents, with residents and businesses helping to clean up areas and repair damage, we know that it will take much longer to resolve community tensions.
"The LGA is supporting councils