Liberal Democrat conference in September passed a motion that aims to strengthen and empower local communities to promote devolution, openness, inclusivity, and the financial empowerment of democratically elected authorities.

The conference held in Brighton also voted to introduce elections by the Single Transferable Vote in multi-member constituencies for all levels of local government, making democratic decision-making fit for the future.

Following the announcement of the delay in the rollout of Universal Credit real concerns remain about the lack of engagement with local government and local partners about the next phase of implementation.

The Government needs to use this delay to work closely with the Local Government Association, Councils and stakeholders so that we can provide the best for vulnerable claimants and ensure no-one loses out on transitional protection. This is also vital to integrate benefits with work on housing, employment, health and financial inclusion so that our welfare system provides a genuine safety net and supports social mobility.

Around the world, one in four people will be affected by a mental health problem at some point in their life. And in the UK, 300,000 people lose their job every year, due to long-term mental health issues. But our largest employers are not doing enough of the heavy lifting.

Large and medium-sized companies should be transparent in how they support staff with mental health issues. The Liberal Democrats want to see this become the case for every company employing more than 500 staff members - whilst encouraging every employer to do more.

It would help to drive up standards of mental wellbeing in the workplace, as employers would need to improve their mental health plans to compete for the best staff. And a healthier, happier workforce is in the interests of every organisation.

Currently, the annual cost of mental health to employers in the UK is as much as £42bn, with the total cost to the UK economy estimated at £99bn. And businesses stand to gain, as the average return on investment of workplace mental health interventions is £4.20 for every £1 spent.

Supporting those affected by mental health is the kind and decent thing to do - but it also makes total economic sense for our country.

The Liberal Democrats will end historic mental health injustice across the board by investing a further £1bn into mental health services.

If you agree with our plan, join our campaign now: https://www.libdems.org.uk/mental-health-injustice?utm_campaign=worldmentalhealthday_sign&utm_medium=email&utm_source=libdems

On 3 October 2018, the Prime Minister said the Government will scrap the cap on the amount local authorities can borrow against their housing revenue account assets.

Before the introduction of the cap under Margaret Thatcher, councils built around 10,000 homes a year - but that figure has subsequently dipped as low as 100.

Libraries Week takes place between the 8-13 October and celebrates our country's fantastic libraries.

As Liberal Democrats we passionately believe in local communities and as such, we'll always passionately support libraries, not just as places for books but for the wider services they provide communities across the country.

This year's World Mental Health Day (10 October 2018) focuses on young people in a changing world.

Half of all mental illness begins by the age of 14, but most cases go undetected and untreated. Depression is one of the most common diseases in teenagers and suicide is the leading cause of death for people between 5-19 years old.

Our Rugby, Our Future returns to the Benn Hall later this month - and it's the perfect opportunity to learn more about the groups and organisations offering services and activities in our communities.

The annual partnership event takes place on Wednesday 17 October and includes a 'market place' featuring stands hosted by community, voluntary and public sector organisations.

Works on the new 3.5-mile link road connecting Houlton to Rugby are progressing according to schedule and the road is expected to be open by Summer 2019.

In April, Councillor Tim Douglas (Paddox Ward) was in contact with Houlton following queries from residents. Houlton confirmed then that all the canal sheet piling work is now complete and the main earthworks for the next phases are underway.

Liberal Democrat Education Spokesperson Layla Moran MP has reaffirmed the party's plans to radically overhaul Ofsted, League Tables and Primary School Exams to ensure tests offer real measures on children's creatively, depth of understanding or ability to work as a team.

Provide teachers with the support they deserve

Liberal Democrat conference on 17 September 2018 passed a motion calling for the Government to ensure everyone has a right to affordable, safe and secure homes in England.

The motion included a commitment to build at least 50,000 new social homes for rent every year, as part of the long-standing commitment of the Liberal Democrats to build 300,000 homes a year over the next decade.