Briefings

Filter

Members

IFS Deaton Inequality Review: the distribution of public service spending

In May 2019, the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) launched the IFS Deaton Review on Inequality, described as a “five-year study of the inequalities in society”. This latest briefing covers ‘The distribution of public service spending’ report, published in May 2023. 

England & Wales, Scotland
Members

Local government Australia: Policy roundup, 25th September

Our new ‘bookmark-able’ version of our weekly policy, news and data roundup for Australian local government. This week: The NSW Budget, a national digital ID scheme, and how to address industrial food waste.

Australia
Members

The war on drugs: where are we now?

This briefing examines the background and current situation with drug use in our society, and looks at the role of local authorities, as custodians of public health and community leaders, in addressing various challenges presented by drug addiction in our local communities.

England & Wales, Northern Ireland, Scotland With case study
Members

Local government Australia: Policy roundup, 18th September

Our new ‘bookmark-able’ version of our weekly policy, news and data roundup for Australian local government. This week: Outstanding council climate initiatives, barriers to first home ownership, and issues with Australian diets.

Australia
Members

Local government Australia: Policy roundup, 11th September

Our new ‘bookmark-able’ version of our weekly policy, news and data roundup for Australian local government. This week: A $1 billion Energy Security Corporation, best practice in local truth-telling, and record waiting times in NSW hospital emergency departments. 

Australia
Members

Health and social care round-up: July and August 2023

The health, public health and social care round-up summarises new policy, research and publications that are relevant to elected members and officers interested in health and social care.

England & Wales, Scotland
Members

Obesity – a chronic health and policy problem

Every UK government since 1992 has identified obesity as a major health problem. Yet despite numerous strategies, targets and institutional reforms, obesity keeps on rising. This briefing examines the failure of government policy in this regard, and what policymakers – at national and local level – should do next.

England & Wales, Scotland
Members

The potential of combined authorities: an agenda for ambitious councils?   

This briefing contends that combined authorities have the potential to enhance the strategic role of local government whilst also helping district, unitary and county councils to develop local service delivery. The briefing examines existing practices in London, Manchester, the West Midlands and other combined authority areas. 

England & Wales With case study
Members & Global Local

Lessons from Finland’s social and healthcare reform experience

Sharing the preliminary findings from Finland’s social and healthcare reforms, this briefing highlights opportunities for learning from the current experience, especially with regard to financial impacts.

Global, Scotland With case study