Future Local Lab
Local Government Explained
Local government finance can feel like a different world – but it doesn't have to. This session breaks it down in a clear, practical way, covering:
- How the council receives its funding.
- How the council plans, manages and reports its spending.
- How councillors can effectively engage with financial decision-making.
There will be time for questions throughout, and all answers will be given in plain English, making it understandable and relatable – guaranteed.
Key outcomes
- Gain a clear understanding of how local government finance works and its influence on wider council decisions.
- Understand the funding streams available to the council, including their constraints, controls, and pitfalls.
- See how budgets are planned, managed and reported, and what it means in practice.
- Appreciate how local government accounts are developed, presented and audited.
- Leave with confidence to engage in discussions about council finances without the obstacle of jargon.
Who should attend
Ideal for councillors looking to build confidence in local government finance – whether you are new to the role or want to sharpen your understanding of the process behind your council’s financial decision-making. Local authority officers and local government partners will also find this session relevant.
Trainer
Pam Duke
Director - Bannsidale Consulting Ltd
Pam is a highly experienced senior public sector leader with over 35 years’ experience in strategic and operational leadership and management across a range of disciplines and sectors. She is a skilled finance professional with a strong technical accounting background and significant experience in influencing and delivering transformational change across complex and diverse service areas and programmes, including local government reorganisation.
