Blog: Friday 26th June - Helen Bradley, LLG President

As President of Lawyers in Local Government, I look forward to attending the forthcoming Local Government Association Conference with a keen sense of both anticipation and professional responsibility. The programme, as published, reflects a sector in the midst of profound transformation: legally, structurally and culturally. It is clear that the discussions to come will be directly relevant to the work we undertake daily as legal advisers and Monitoring Officers.

The LGA agenda signals a strong emphasis on local government reorganisation, devolution and changes to governance structures. These are not abstract policy considerations; they go to the heart of how authorities are constituted and operate. This focus closely aligns with our forthcoming Monitoring Officer Conference   session on “The role of the Monitoring Officer in unitary councils”, which will examine the practical realities of transition from two tier systems. Understanding how colleagues across the country are approaching these reforms will undoubtedly enrich those discussions and better prepare us to support our authorities through periods of structural change.

Another prominent theme within the LGA programme is the continued evolution of governance practice shaped by judicial and regulatory developments. This is reflected in our own agenda through the “Case Law Update for Monitoring Officers” session, which will provide a timely overview of recent decisions influencing the governance framework within which we operate. Maintaining a clear and current understanding of how the courts are interpreting statutory duties and governance principles is essential if we are to guide our authorities with confidence and authority.

The increasing prominence of technology: particularly artificial intelligence: in public sector decision making is also set to feature within the LGA Conference. This is an area of rapid development and, understandably, some uncertainty. Our session on “AI Governance: Navigating the Legal Landscape for Monitoring Officers” will provide a vital complement to these national discussions, equipping practitioners with practical tools to address issues of accountability, transparency and ethical deployment. The intersection of law and technology is no longer a future concern; it is an immediate professional imperative.

Leadership and resilience are also recurring themes within the sector. The demands placed upon Monitoring Officers and senior governance professionals continue to intensify, particularly in times of organisational change. Our conference programme reflects this reality through sessions focused on managing stress, recognising personal triggers, and maintaining wellbeing. These are not peripheral matters. The ability to remain steady, clear sighted and effective under pressure is essential to discharging our statutory responsibilities.

In addition, the value of shared experience is evident both in the LGA Conference programme and within our own. Sessions such as “First out of the blocks: Surrey’s experiences of local government reorganisation” offer practical insights grounded in lived experience, while peer learning opportunities ensure that delegates can test ideas against real world challenges. Together, these discussions help to bridge the gap between principle and application.

However, it would be remiss not to emphasise that the true value of conferences such as these extends beyond the formal programme. The opportunity to engage with peers: to exchange views, test ideas and reflect candidly on shared challenges is of immeasurable importance. AMO’s dedicated open sessions at the Monitoring Officers Conference are designed to provide precisely that safe and confidential space for dialogue. In a role that can, at times, feel isolating, these conversations are vital; they enable honest reflection and foster professional support.

I therefore strongly encourage all DMO’s, MO’s and those aspiring, to attend the Monitoring Officer Conference. It offers not only a timely and relevant programme, but also an opportunity to connect with colleagues across the profession. As AMO and LLG prepare for the discussions at the LGA Conference, it is through our own collective engagement that we will strengthen both our individual practice and the wider governance community.

In a period defined by change and complexity, our greatest asset remains the willingness to learn from one another; to reflect openly; and to support each other in upholding the rule of law within local government.

Best wishes

Helen Bradley

LLG President

For programme details and to book on the Monitoring Officers conference on 17th July 2026 in London, click here.