A practical and accessible text on both internal and external communication for those working in local councils and in the provision of public services, this book offers a detailed analysis of the PR and marketing issues that are unique to this challenging and fast-moving environment. In the UK's current climate of budget cuts and policy changes, coupled with forward planning for unexpected events such as flooding or the demands of the Freedom of Information Act, local government officials need to be aware of best practice in both broadcasting their services and responding to crises in their communities. Given changes in the media - from the rise of social communications such as Twitter and Facebook, through to web access for older consumers - how can local councils convey their key messages to best effect? And how can a council's "brand" be built and protected? As the UK moves towards a 'Big Society' climate of local democracy, fiscal accountability and individual involement, knowing how to promote local government and its services, to both employees and the communities they serve, can have a major impact on reputation, revenue and cost-effectiveness.

PR and Communication in Local Government and Public Services reinforces the importance of effective and meaningful communication to both local democracy and the planning and delivery of quality services.