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The Local Councils Podcast

The Local Councils Podcast

Written by: Ian Nockolds
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About this listen

 The Local Councils Podcast is produced by Community First and the Wiltshire Association of Local Councils, showcasing interviews with leading members of the Town and Parish Council sector across Wiltshire and Swindon.Copyright Ian Nockolds Political Science Politics & Government
Episodes
  • Speaking Truth to Power

    Speaking Truth to Power
    Aug 1 2025
    In this episode of the Local Councils Podcast, Local Councils Advisor, Ian Nockolds, speaks to Perry Holmes, the Director of Legal and Governance and the Monitoring Officer for Wiltshire Council. Perry is part of the Corporate Leadership Team and is also Chair of the Local Resilience Forum for Swindon & Wiltshire. In a wide ranging interview, Perry discusses his role at Wiltshire Council, reflecting on how a positive and more professional culture within local councils, leads to better governance and decision making. Perry describes the evolution of his career, from a criminal solicitor to his current role. Perry also discusses his love of running and Nottingham Forest, as well as the time he’s spent as a school governor, reflecting on the governance structure that exists in schools and how it compares to the Town and Parish Council sector.
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    35 mins
  • De-escalation and Communication

    De-escalation and Communication
    May 9 2025
    On this episode of the Local Councils Podcast we hear from Alison Robinson is the Director of Council Services at Calne Town Council. Ali discusses her transition from a County Officer role at the Gloucestershire Association of Parish and Town Councils to Calne and her efforts to streamline internal structures and prioritise long-term budget planning. Ali considers the challenges of micro-devolution, as well as the importance of community engagement, as well as her personal commitment to continuous professional development. Ali is also preparing for a 130-mile coastal run in August to raise awareness for the Sunflowers Charity, which supports families affected by suicide.
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    41 mins
  • Transformational Inclusion

    Transformational Inclusion
    Mar 6 2025
    On this episode of the Local Councils Podcast we hear from Dr Tanvir Bush. Dr Bush is a visually impaired novelist and researcher and in this interview she shares her journey from being a documentary filmmaker in Zambia to a creative writer in the UK. Diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa as a young woman, she adapted to her condition by focusing on creative writing, earning an MA and PhD. She moved to Corsham in 2012 and became a local councilor in 2020, highlighting the challenges of navigating public life with a visual impairment. Dr Bush discusses her work on Transformational Inclusion which aims to bridge the gaps between disabled communities, local government, and higher education, emphasizing mutual support and inclusive design.
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    31 mins
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