How Councils Actually Work (And Why Your Voice Matters More Than You Think)

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The Graft Podcast

Ben Glimmerveen

22 episodes

3 days ago

GRAFT is a podcast that strips away the glossy veneer of success to reveal the true stories of determination, resilience, and hard work that drive remarkable achievements. Hosted by Ben Glimmerveen, each episode features in-depth conversations with individuals who've built their success through sheer graft, exploring the challenges, sacrifices, and lessons learned along the way.

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How Councils Actually Work (And Why Your Voice Matters More Than You Think) | GRAFT According to Sally Holland

The Graft Podcast

1 hour 3 minutes 18 seconds

3 weeks ago

How Councils Actually Work (And Why Your Voice Matters More Than You Think) | GRAFT According to Sally Holland

From the skies to the council chamber, Sally Holland’s path to public service wasn’t planned. A former Virgin Atlantic Cabin Service Director turned twice-elected Mayor of Congleton and Cheshire East councillor, Sally lifts the lid on how local government really works - and how ordinary people can actually influence decisions.

In this episode, Sally joins Ben to demystify councils (town/parish vs borough vs Westminster), explain where the money goes, and walk through real local flashpoints like road crossings and car-park rules. Expect straight talk on budgets, accountability, and the practical steps that get you heard before the diggers arrive.

🎧 Listen as we discuss…
(00:00) – From cabin crew to councillor: falling into politics by accident(02:12) – Town & parish vs borough vs national: who actually does what(05:10) – What councils control: highways, planning, licensing, social care(08:24) – Budgets 101: why adult & children’s social care dominate spend(11:05) – Case study: the controversial crossing, consultations, and costs(15:18) – Car parks, caps, and common sense: reading the usage data(18:40) – Committee system vs cabinet system: why accountability matters(22:11) – Being Mayor (twice): workload, wardrobe, and “Mayor Bear”(25:36) – Confidence after a career break: identity, service, and purpose(28:44) – How to influence: speaking at committees, recorded votes, evidence(32:10) – Why media narratives muddy the waters—and how to cut through(35:22) – A playbook for locals: six quick wins to make change happen

GUEST
Sally Holland: Cheshire East councillor (Conservative), twice Mayor of Congleton, former Virgin Atlantic Cabin Service Director, community advocate, and business owner.