Topic: Local democracy
The material in this section contains information, guidance and commentary about democracy, participation and engagement of the public in local democratic systems. Many authorities are seeking to deepen their approach to new ways of involving local people in decision-making – in part by exploring how these methods can “dock in” to more traditional governance structures.
The reorganisation and devolution agenda also creates an opportunity for local democracy to be strengthened through the creation and development of “hyperlocal” governance systems – both through a bolstering of the power of parish and community councils and by the creation of new locality or area-based systems for new, larger authorities.
What would you put in your local democracy shield?
Mel Stevens attended the recent Eurocities conference, Upgrading Local Democracy, where mayors from across Europe gathered to discuss how they can strengthen local democracy at a time of global democratic decline. It prompted her to ask, what can we prioritise preserving – using a ‘democracy shield’ from local democracy?
English Devolution White Paper Explainer
Learn more about the English Devolution White Paper with our explainer.
Notwestminster 2025
Read a firsthand account of what it’s like to take part in Notwestminster, and why CfGS felt it was important to sponsor it.
How virtual meetings are shaping local democracy
The way councils meet is changing. With the government moving toward legislation that could allow virtual and hybrid meetings, there’s a unique opportunity to modernise local governance—making it more inclusive, accessible, and adaptable to today’s demands.This blog shares our thoughts about how virtual and hybrid council meetings could reshape local governance, offering a practical look at the benefits, challenges, and opportunities ahead.
The Right to Protest vs Acts of Hate: Reflecting on Southport
Mel Stevens, Chief Executive and Antony Mullen, Research and Impact Manager, discuss the fallout from recent riots.
How Open Government can rebuild trust, support reforms, and drive efficiency
Joint letter from the UK Open Government Network, on how open government can build trust, support reforms and drive.
Turn and face the changes
Key messages from Mel Stevens on the governance of public services, as featured in the Municipal Journal.
Public participation par excellence
Ideas to increase the reach of scrutiny activities and increase public engagement.
Long read: the English Devolution Accountability Framework
First thoughts on the English Devolution Accountability Framework.
Council size changes: learning lessons from submissions and implementation
Research on the process electoral review in England, 2022.