About Localis

Localis is an independent think-tank dedicated to issues related to local government and localism. We carry out innovative research, hold a calendar of events and facilitate an ever growing network of members to stimulate and challenge the current orthodoxy of the governance of the UK.

Who we are

Localis is an independent think-tank based in Westminster, dedicated to issues related to local government and localism. Since our formation we have produced research on a variety of issues including housing, the reform of regional government, innovation in services and local government finance.

To see the current Localis team click here, and to see who is on the Board, click here.

Our philosophy

We believe that the primary role of the state should be to reduce the need for the state, by fostering an independent society and a diverse local economy of co-operatives, businesses, charities and a slimmed down state. Local government and citizens must have a much greater role in achieving this vision, helping to restore society by increasing transparency and by more closely connecting the taxpayer to the recipients of public money. We also believe in opening up the state to provide greater choice and personalisation of public services.

What we do

Localis aims to provide a link between local government and the key figures in business, academia, the third sector, parliament and the media. We aim to influence the debate on localism, providing innovative and fresh thinking on all areas which local government is concerned with. We have a broad events programme, including roundtable discussions, publication launches and an extensive party conference programme.

To find out more about our calendar of events click here, to find out more about our research click here, and to find out more about the services we can offer click here.

• "Localis is fast gaining a reputation for pre-empting the localist agenda, producing thought provoking research and practical policy ideas"Anthony Seldon, author and political commentator
• "Localis’ commitment to decentralisation crosses party boundaries, and their research illuminates policy problems with new practical thinking"Prof George Jones, LSE
• "Localis offers a great blend of a passion for innovation, grounded practical ideas and unswerving belief in the possibilities of local governance"Derek Myers, Chief Executive, Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea

more