Leadership and Engagement
The Local Government Association (LGA) published a report in May 2006 that aimed to consider the drivers of change and challenges facing local areas. The report focused on the principles that would enable local government to champion the cause of local people, to make a difference to their lives, and respond to their needs, hopes and aspirations for the future. The report was entitled, ‘Closer to people and places: a new vision for local government.’
The LGA report advocates that for a local authority to respond to peoples needs and aspirations it is necessary to provide effective strategic leadership and engage with their local communities. Strong leadership will ensure that policies and budgets aim to respond to people’s needs, and build towards the long term future of the area. Effective engagement with communities supports a sense of local identity and re-energises democracy.
Local food related initiatives provide a means for local authorities to focus on the longer term future of their locality, as well as a positive vehicle to reach key areas within a local community. Importantly such initiatives recognise national priorities, but focus effectively on local communities and individuals.