Hull Forward: Leadership, Infrastructure, and Inclusive Growth – Insights from Leader, Councillor Mike Ross
In this episode of Truth About Local Government, Matt Masters sits down with Councillor Mike Ross, Leader of Hull City Council, to explore the city’s ambitious plans for infrastructure, regeneration, and inclusive growth. Mike shares his personal journey into politics, the values that guide his leadership, and the council’s vision for a “cleaner, safer and fairer” Hull.Listeners will hear about:Hull’s £42 million infrastructure investment plan and the push for government supportKey regeneration projects transforming the city’s public spaces and connectivityCultural investment and how Hull is building on its legacy as UK City of CultureThe challenges of leading a city with unique geographical and financial pressuresMike’s reflections on the mayoral campaign and the future of devolution in East YorkshireThis episode offers a candid look at civic leadership, strategic planning, and the power of place-based transformation. Whether you're a local government professional, a Hull resident, or simply curious about how cities evolve, this conversation is packed with insight and inspiration.
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20:23
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20:23
Why Transformation Often Fails Within Local Government
Transformation is often seen as the fix for inefficiencies and budget pressures in local government, but many programmes fail to deliver lasting change. In this episode, Claire Symonds, Ashley Roper, and Meena Kishinani explore why. Claire Symonds (ex-Redbridge CEO) argues that transformation must be a continuous mindset, not a time-limited project. She highlights how vital leadership is in successful transformations.Ashley Roper (RPNA) warns against tech-led change without clear outcomes. He stresses the need for upfront assessments of systems, citizen needs, and staff engagement, noting only 17% of public sector digital efforts are seen as fully successful.Meena Kishinani (ex-Birmingham and Barking & Dagenham) focuses on the human side. She emphasises the importance of strong governance, staff buy-in, and leadership that can sustain change beyond individual tenures. Her work on the “Different” programme highlights the value of diverse leadership. Sector-wide data shows digital strategy implementation is regressing, with only 16% of councils completing theirs in 2025. Systemic issues data silos, political instability, and resistance to change, continue to hinder transformation at scale.
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22:22
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22:22
Unlocking the Hidden Value: Rethinking Data in Social Care
In this episode we sit down with Alexander Mileman, Founder of Achieving for Action to explore the transformative potential of the Social Care Value Index project. They discuss how local authorities are sitting on a goldmine of data that could radically improve outcomes in social care if only it were used more effectively. From identifying what truly works to exposing inefficiencies, this conversation challenges the sector to rethink how it measures value and impact. Alexander shares insights from the project, the barriers to better data use, and what needs to change to unlock smarter, more compassionate care. If you are a Director of Adult Social Services or a S151 Officer looking for savings, and a strategy that is evidenced based, this is one for you.
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19:54
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19:54
Cambridge at the Crossroads: Growth, Justice and the Future of a Global City
In this episode, we speak with Councillor Cameron Holloway, the Leader of Cambridge City Council, about the exciting developments and pressing challenges facing one of the UK’s most iconic cities. From government-backed growth ambitions to acute infrastructure constraints, Holloway shares his vision for a fairer, greener Cambridge. We explore how the council is tackling poverty, protecting the environment, and ensuring that residents have a real say in shaping their city’s future. With national attention focused on Cambridge, this conversation offers a timely insight into leadership, values-led development, and the importance of democratic accountability in local government.
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22:33
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22:33
Incremental Creep in Governance – Why It Matters More Than You Think
This special crossover episode features Matt Masters, host of The Truth About Local Government, in conversation with Kirsty Hunt, host of Governance Matters a podcast produced by South East Employers that explores the building blocks of good governance in local government.In Season 2, Episode 5, Matt interviews Kirsty to unpack the concept of incremental creep the slow, often unnoticed erosion of governance standards in councils. The discussion explores how small compromises in transparency, decision-making, and accountability can accumulate into systemic risk and public distrust.Kirsty shares six warning signs of incremental creep:Cultural complacency (“That’s how we’ve always done it”)Leadership turnover and loss of institutional memoryWeak scrutiny and challengeOver-reliance on individualsInformal decision-makingPoor record-keepingThe episode also highlights the importance of:Empowering statutory officers (the “Golden Triangle”)Councillor induction and developmentExternal reviews and peer learningResident engagement and democratic health KPIs“Expose it. Give it nowhere to hide.” – Kirsty Hunt “Is there incremental creep in your governance? And if so, what are you going to do about it?” – Matt MastersThis episode is a must-listen for anyone working in or with local government who wants to strengthen governance before crisis hits.
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