REFLECTING on the discussions about local government reform we had on the Talking Scotland podcast last week, with my guests Kate Forbes and Councillor Louise McAllister, I’m struck by how much local services affect our daily lives.
These aren’t distant policies but the practical underpinnings of our communities’ wellbeing, touching everything from the schools that educate our children to the roads that connect our towns and villages.
Fundamentally, local government is about people: the students in classrooms; older people relying on home care, and families who depend on public transport.
These services directly affect our quality of life, yet we haven’t seen significant local government reform in more than 30 years.
Can we do better for our communities?
The Nordic countries provide an illuminating example of effective local governance. Nations such as Sweden and Denmark excel in delivering high-quality public services and achieving remarkable citizen satisfaction.
A key element of their success is decentralisation, allowing local authorities greater autonomy and resources. This approach is one that Kate spoke of during our discussions. It brings decision-making closer to those it affects, fostering community ownership and accountability, resulting in services finely tuned to local needs.
Another hallmark of the Nordic approach is their commitment to innovation and citizen engagement. Finnish municipalities, for example, regularly involve citizens in decision-making through town halls and digital platforms.
This participatory democracy doesn’t just enhance transparency, it builds trust and ensures policies reflect the community’s voice and needs.
READ MORE: Scotland must look beyond its borders. That includes at the Nordics
Applying these lessons in Scotland, there is enormous potential to revitalise our local governance. Imagine councils not just as service providers but also as catalysts for community empowerment, where active citizen participation and local democracy are rejuvenated.
This vision transcends efficiency or cost-savings – it’s about creating a society where everyone feels heard and involved. My own political journey, from councillor to MSP, has been testament to the profound impact local government can have. Whether scrutinising policy or championing community needs, I’ve seen first hand how local decisions shape lives. It’s not about abstract policy, it’s about real people with real stories.
While I think about the essential nature of local government and its undeniable role in our daily lives, I find myself delving into memories that vividly illustrate how deeply personal and critical local governance is.
READ MORE: Kate Forbes: 'Behemoth' councils in Scotland must be broken up
My journey into local politics wasn’t just a professional choice. It was propelled by a series of personal experiences and convictions that resonate with many in our communities.
As a councillor in Aberdeenshire, I saw first hand how decisions made at the local level affect every aspect of our lives. The policies we discuss, and implement are realities that shape our communal living spaces, influence our wellbeing, and define our shared experiences.
One such experience that stands out was the implementation of the British Sign Language (BSL) plan. This wasn’t just another policy document for me, it was a page from my life. My father, born Deaf and a British Sign Language (BSL) user, sat in the audience as we deliberated and passed the plan.
That day, the realms of personal and political overlapped in a way that was profoundly moving. It was a vivid reminder that our actions in local government have the power to reach into people’s lives, making them feel seen, heard, and valued.
Instead of giving my contribution in spoken English, I firstly communicated in BSL, no words and no interpreter speaking for me. I did this to show the impact that having no understanding of what is being said can have on someone.
Local government, in its essence, is about community. It’s about understanding that behind every decision, there are faces, families, stories and dreams.
It’s about recognising that these decisions have the power to uplift lives, bridge gaps, and foster a sense of belonging. My experience with the BSL plan wasn’t just a professional victory, it was also a personal affirmation of the values I stand for: inclusivity, empathy and a deep-rooted commitment to serving the community. The diverse community.
The need for engagement in local politics, therefore, cannot be overstated. It’s about having a say in the matters that influence our neighbourhoods and lives. It’s about contributing to a dialogue that shapes the fabric of our communities.
READ MORE: The ignorance of both governments is hurting Scottish islands
As we navigate through the challenges and opportunities of local governance, let’s remember its personal essence. Let’s work towards creating a local government that not only addresses our communal needs but also resonates with our individual stories and experiences.
Engagement is key to this vision. We need to ask ourselves why turnout is low at council elections and how we can foster a deeper interest in local governance. The answer lies in making local politics more accessible and relevant.
Looking forward, we can envisage a Scotland where local government is a vibrant reflection of our communities’ aspirations. A place where local services are not just necessities but embody our shared values. Reforming local government isn’t just an administrative task, it’s an opportunity to strengthen our communities’ fabric!
Drawing inspiration from models like those in the Nordic countries, we can re-imagine our local governance, keeping it close to the people it serves.
Let’s collaborate to forge a local government system that truly resonates with the spirit and needs of Scotland’s diverse and vibrant communities. I look forward to the conversation.
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