How to be the best

Brexit is still a moveable feast for the government but not for the 3 million plus EU citizens who work across the UK, many in the NHS, social care and other key sectors.

While the public remain completely split on whether cutting immigration or protecting economy should be the priority in our negotiations over Brexit, one thing a majority do agree is that Britain has become nastier to immigrants since the 23 of June. It is hard for a native Brit to imagine exactly how it feels to find that the country you adopted as home is different to the way you had perceived it.

One of the most popular things I have done in my 29 years at Ipsos was to promise the quarter of my workforce from Europe that whatever happens we will ensure that all who want to are able to stay in the UK after Brexit. Just telling them that they are valued has made a huge difference. 

While the funding of local government will remain challenging for the foreseeable future, building or attempting to maintain morale remains hugely important. When Ipsos compares local authorities we find no difference between strong and weak performers on attitudes to pay, working hours or whether work is interesting. The best performers stand out as those where people feel listened to, where there is empathy, and where visible management tells a clear story about the future, a road map for everyone. 

“The greatest human need is to be appreciated” said Henry James. At times of uncertainty people’s need for information and reassurance is greater than ever. Local government is no different.

• This article was written for the Municipal Journal (MJ) magazine.