Failure to deliver a meaningful pay rise will make recruitment and retention problems worse
local government
Councils must be able to recruit more planning staff if communities are to get the homes, schools and services they need.

Reform councillors are going to have to get used to the triple whammy of life as a local government worker – financial cuts, staff shortages and increasing demand
Services and staff must be protected
A rise of £3,000 is needed at all pay points

Prolonged failure to invest in children’s and youth services has created a ticking time bomb for society and the economy
If the government is to realise its ambitious agenda, it must work with the people who will be tasked with rebuilding the country

The chancellor faces a tough task, but Rachel Reeves must show that Labour is serious about growth
The local government employers should come forward with an improved pay offer.