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Writing business cases: guidance and templates to help you deliver your energy projects
The Energy Systems Catapult and Local Partnerships have produced a series of business case templates, specifically for use by local authorities planning local energy projects.
Templates available include Heat Networks, Solar PV and Retrofit Strategic Outline Case. To further support Local Authorities, the Energy Systems Catapult and Local Partnerships have developed a short survey to understand more about some of the challenges that you might be experiencing in developing business cases and where more support could help. We would love to hear from you to help us identify what further support you require.
LGA transformation capability framework demonstration webinar
The LGA’s Transformation Programme is hosting a webinar to engage councils who are interested in a more detailed understanding of the newly developed Transformation Capability Framework which is currently out for consultation and provide feedback directly to the supplier. The webinar is being held on Monday 12 February, 10.00am - 11.00am on MS Teams. If you would like to join this webinar to see a demonstration of the tool and provide feedback please email giusy.agyekum@local.gov.uk.
Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete - update
The number of schools and colleges in England with buildings affected by crumbling concrete, known as reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC), has risen to 234, the Department for Education (DfE) has revealed. The DfE said that of the 234 with RAAC-infested buildings, 119 are currently listed to get new buildings through its school rebuilding programme, while 110 will receive grants to renovate or remove the affected parts.
Crown Commercial Service has an Offsite Construction Solutions framework and affected parties can speak to their regional National Association of Construction Frameworks (NACF) member for advice. NEPO has published information on NEPO suppliers offering support to those affected by RAAC. ESPO and YPO also have information and frameworks on temporary buildings, mobile classrooms as well as inspection and survey services.
Guidance for education settings impacted by RAAC is available and there is an education hub containing a full Q&A on RAAC.
Recruitment campaign for early years and childcare
The Government announced a new national recruitment campaign for early years and the childcare sector: Do something BIG. Work with small children. This campaign will shine a light on the great careers available in the sector and recognise the lifelong impact childcare professionals have on children during their most formative years. Councils are asked to engage with the campaign and support early years providers to take part.
Electoral Commission polling staff recruitment resources – reminder
The Electoral Commission has published new resources aimed at helping councils to recruit the polling station staff needed for elections coming up this year - the resources include social media resources, email signatures and a flyer.
Four in ten councils at risk of financial failure over next five years
New independent analysis from business and financial adviser Grant Thornton UK LLP finds that the current financial outlook for local councils in England shows 40% of councils at risk of financial failure over the next five years.
According to data from Grant Thornton’s Financial Foresight tool, within the next 12 months alone, over one in five councils in England are at risk of financial failure, without additional income or further spending cuts. This increases to 25% by the end of next year, highlighting the extremely precarious financial position of the sector.
Metropolitan and Unitary Councils are at the highest risk of financial failure this year, followed by London Boroughs and District Authorities.
Public Health Grant allocations
2024/25 Public Health Grant allocations to local government have been published. Guidance has been provided on the subject. The LGA has briefed on the allocations, as well as issuing a press release.
Waking Watch Replacement Fund 2023 – reminder
DLUHC announced the reopening of the Waking Watch Replacement Fund for applications, with £18.6 million of government funding available to replace waking watches with an alarm system. The fund has been designed to incentivise building owners to replace waking watch measures with fire alarms.
The fund is open to all residential buildings in England where a waking watch is currently in place. The deadline for applications to the fund has been extended to 31 March 2024. Councils are encouraged to share this information with leaseholders in their area.
NEPO Supplier Partnership Programme: Introduction to public sector tendering
Tuesday 13 February, 1pm - 4pm | Virtual
LGA Do you have the best hiring strategies?
Thursday 22 February 2024, 10.30am - 12.00 noon | Virtual
LGA Building an enabling digital culture – procurement, governance and security
Friday 1 March, 10am - 11:30am | Virtual
The Procurement Act Expo
12 March 2024 | In person conference
LGA Transformation Conference (Hybrid event)
Tuesday 26 March 2024, 10.30am - 2.30pm | 18 Smith Square, Westminster, London & online
Procurex National
Thursday 16 May 2024 | Liverpool Exhibition Centre
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