Support and training for the devolution process
In December 2024, the government presented the Parliament English Devolution White Paper – Power and Partnership: Foundations for Growth. This sets out how the government intends to deliver its proposals for devolution in England over the course of this parliament.
This White Paper is designed to embed devolution into the country’s constitution. It will, in the government’s own words, achieve ‘growth, more joined-up delivery of public services, and politics being done with communities, not to them.’ The White Paper outlines plans to replace two-tier local government with unitary authorities, and the establishment of regional Strategic Authorities each with an elected Mayor.
We have put together resources that will help local council clerks understand what this white paper means for you, and specific guidance which help navigate the changing landscape of local government.
Keep up-to-date with all the news we have shared on the topic here.
In February 2025, we published a simple ten-point plan for members in England on setting up a new local council, aimed at senior managers and decision-makers in principal councils on the verge of reorganisation. We wanted to prompt conversations about the value of ultra-local services delivered by local councils, through the creation of new ones and the devolution of assets and services to existing ones.
Establishing strong local councils for your unparished communities
Building on this foundation, we have developed a comprehensive report that explores each of these ten points in greater depth, outlining them as key steps in the process of establishing a new council. While it is not, and cannot be, a comprehensive manual covering every action required, it serves as a summary of best practices and leading examples. These insights are drawn from the wealth of experience, knowledge, and expertise within our membership, with links to source material published by SLCC and other organisations committed to the delivery and support of effective public services at all levels.
Webinars to support with the devolution process
The devolution plans will lead to many new challenges for local council clerks, and to support with this, we have implemented a programme of webinars to take you through various issues.
This started with two panel discussions.
- ‘What Does It Mean for Us? Reorganisation to Unitary Local Government’
This webinar provided insights into the impact of reorganisation on local councils, how councils have adapted, taken on new assets, and strengthened community leadership is also available to members. The recording of the webinar ‘What Does It Mean for Us? Reorganisation to Unitary Local Government’, can be accessed by members here. - ‘What Does It Mean for Us? Mayoral Combined Authorities’ With a panel of representatives providing experience from different stages of the combined authorities journey, this webinar provided insight into the role and powers of mayors in new combined authorities, how local councils are engaging with mayors and principal authorities. It also provided practical insights from councils working within mayoral structures. The recording of the webinar ‘What Does It Mean for Us? Mayoral Combined Authorities’ can be accessed by members here.
- Programme management
- Business planning
- Negotiation skills
Community Governance qualifications