iiinova — where your digital self keeps evolving

Reposted by Jane O’Donnell

COSLA @cosla.gov.uk · 26/09/2025

✨Our fantastic fifteen finalists in this year's COSLA Excellence Awards have been announced! We are looking forward to finding out the winners at the Awards Ceremony in November, as part of the COSLA Conference & Exhibition. Read more with comment from @morayshona.bsky.social here: bit.ly/4pFt4gg

A photo of COSLA President, Councillor Shona Morrison, with a quote which reads: " The COSLA Excellence Awards are a highlight of my year and it’s always inspiring to hear about so many positive and innovative projects being nominated, especially given the challenging times we are in. Council teams use their creativity, innovation and genuine passion for their communities every day to overcome increasingly complex challenges. The Awards exist to recognise exactly this talent and passion."

031

Reposted by Jane O’Donnell

stewartclelland.bsky.social @stewartclelland.bsky.social · 26/09/2025

Exciting news! Our team has been named a finalist in the 2025 COSLA Excellence Awards for our work in Project-Based Learning and Partnership. A huge thank you to the staff, students, and partners – proud to see this recognised nationally! www.cosla.gov.uk/news/2025/ce...

cosla.gov.uk

Celebrating Local Excellence: 15 Scottish Projects Shortlisted for 2025 COSLA Awards

Fifteen projects from across Scotland have been chosen as finalists for the 2025 Excellence Awards - COSLA’s annual celebration of Scottish Local Government success.

042

Reposted by Jane O’Donnell

The Highland Council @highland.gov.uk · 30/09/2025

We are pleased to announce that our Psychological Services/Children’s Rights and Participation Group are COSLA Excellence Awards Finalists in Cat 4 – Strengthening Communities & Local Democracy. Read More:https://buff.ly/a5wC5lq

033

Reposted by Jane O’Donnell

The Highland Council @highland.gov.uk · 02/10/2025

Good luck Jo and Sadie who were presenting to the Cosla Excellence Awards judging panel, in Category 4- Strengthening Communities and Local Democracy. Winners will be announced on 13 November.

011

Reposted by Jane O’Donnell

Jimmy Reid Foundation @reidfoundation.bsky.social · 24/10/2025

Reform council tax, Cosla urges ahead of Scottish Parliament election. Councils tackling a combined funding gap of £647m, with the workforce down 11% since 2013, Meanwhile, costs and demand for services such as housing and social care continue to rise. www.holyrood.com/news/view,re...

holyrood.com

Reform council tax, Cosla urges parties ahead of Scottish Parliament election

Councils seek end to 'restrictive' ring-fencing on government pledges like teacher numbers

033

Reposted by Jane O’Donnell

COSLA @cosla.gov.uk · 24/10/2025

📢 COSLA’s 2026 Manifesto is here: Strong Communities Start with Local Government. We’re calling for sustainable finance, empowered local democracy & investment in people and places. Let’s work together to help Scotland live well locally. 🔗 bit.ly/4qIhhP1

The front cover of the COSLA 2026 Manifesto document, which asks the next Scottish Government for investment in and empowerment for Scottish Local Government. Title text in purple and black reads ‘COSLA Manifesto 2026’. Three photos from local authorities in Scotland can be seen which show (from left-right) a gritting vehicle on duty on a snowy rural road; a harbour in a small fishing village; a worker maintaining a public garden.

011

Reposted by Jane O’Donnell

COSLA @cosla.gov.uk · 24/10/2025

🏡 Councils deliver the services that make communities thrive. But without sustainable funding, these services are under threat. We’re calling for fair, multi-year funding and local revenue-raising powers. cosla.gov.uk/__data/asset...

032

Reposted by Jane O’Donnell

Joe Fagan @joejfagan.bsky.social · 26/09/2025

Our family support hubs in South Lanarkshire have been shortlisted for the Cosla Excellence Awards - practical and successful examples of early intervention in action. Very worthy contenders! www.cosla.gov.uk/news/2025/ce...

cosla.gov.uk

Celebrating Local Excellence: 15 Scottish Projects Shortlisted for 2025 COSLA Awards

Fifteen projects from across Scotland have been chosen as finalists for the 2025 Excellence Awards - COSLA’s annual celebration of Scottish Local Government success.

042

Reposted by Jane O’Donnell

COSLA @cosla.gov.uk · 05/09/2025

Earlier this week, the Whole System Strategic Improvement Group held its latest quarterly meeting. Read what COSLA’s Health and Social Care Spokesperson, Councillor Paul Kelly, who co-chairs the WSSIG, had to say following the meeting:

This important forum brings together key partners in health and social care, showcasing the innovative and collaborative work that Local Government is leading to improve outcomes in social care. The use of the Near Me technology in prisons and the Community Health Index within Local Government are great examples of how digital solutions can improve people’s experience of support, enable information sharing and enhance collaboration between services.

011

Reposted by Jane O’Donnell

COSLA @cosla.gov.uk · 05/09/2025

Here at COSLA, we have our very own ‘feel good Friday’ story for you… Our Vice President, Councillor Steven Heddle, recently completed a 967-mile cycle from Lands End to John o' Groats in just 13 days, raising a massive £5000 (including Gift Aid) for @cancerresearchuk.org 🚴‍♂️

111

Reposted by Jane O’Donnell

COSLA @cosla.gov.uk · 20/08/2025

We're at the Festival of Politics today, with COSLA's Environment and Economy Spokesperson, Councillor Gail Macgregor joining a fantastic panel alongside Ariane Burgess MSP, Andy Wightman, Esther Robertson and Dr Greg Stride.

232

Reposted by Jane O’Donnell

Scottish Parliament Futures Team @spfuturesteam.bsky.social · 20/08/2025

“It's not local and it doesn't govern” @andywightman.scot says as the discussion opens at #FoP2025 Is the current structure of local government fit for the next 30 years? 👇 Join the discussion👇

023

Reposted by Jane O’Donnell

Qualifications Scotland @qualifications.gov.scot · 05/08/2025

It's #SQAresults Day! Congrats if you're receiving results today.😊 ✉️Learners will receive their certificate in the post today and if you've signed up to MySQA you'll also receive your results by text or email. Results Day resources and support 👉 info.sqa.org.uk/YourResults2025

066

Reposted by Jane O’Donnell

COSLA @cosla.gov.uk · 16/07/2025

Today marks one year since the United Nations Convention on Rights of the Child #UNCRC was incorporated into Scots Law. Read the full comment welcoming this milestone from COSLA's Children & Young People Spokesperson, Councillor Tony Buchanan: cosla.gov.uk/news/2025/ce...

"Councils hold a shared vision of a Scotland where children’s human rights are embedded in all aspects of our society and public services." -Councillor Tony Buchanan, Children & Young People Spokesperson, COSLA

032

Reposted by Jane O’Donnell

COSLA @cosla.gov.uk · 22/07/2025

Improving Outcomes Through Partnership: the CHI in Local Government Project brings together key partners to deliver better outcomes for citizens. Read the full joint release from COSLA, The Scottish Government, The Digital Office & Public Health Scotland to find out more: bit.ly/3IE4CuO

"I look forward to continuing to champion this work as it progresses and ultimately delivers better outcomes for our citizens."

022

Reposted by Jane O’Donnell

COSLA @cosla.gov.uk · 07/07/2025

COSLA has published a new case study from @northlanarkshire.gov.uk showcasing the Burns Gym Virtual Fitness Programme delivered in local care homes. Read more: bit.ly/4ktsqPf (1/2)

111

Reposted by Jane O’Donnell

COSLA @cosla.gov.uk · 30/06/2025

Today COSLA Health & Social Care Spokesperson, Cllr Paul Kelly, met with Minister for Social Care & Mental Wellbeing, Mr Tom Arthur MSP. Great opportunity to discuss shared opportunities & challenges for social care & social work, as well as COSLA & Scottish Government's ongoing partnership working.

011

Reposted by Jane O’Donnell

COSLA @cosla.gov.uk · 01/07/2025

***Deadline Extended*** The deadline for the COSLA Excellence Awards has been extended to 5pm on Friday, 1st August. If you know of an exceptional council team or project, please spread the news - there's still time to apply! Find out more & apply: www.cosla.gov.uk/news/excelle...

021

Reposted by Jane O’Donnell

COSLA @cosla.gov.uk · 03/07/2025

COSLA's email bulletin for Elected Members has been published! In this issue: 🟣Latest updates on pay negotiations 🟣Excellence Awards deadline extended 🟣Book your place at the COSLA Conference ...& much more! 🔗https://mailchi.mp/cosla/cosla-emb-3rd-july-2025

White text on a purple background. The text reads: Elected Member Bulletin - 3rd July 2025

021

Jane O’Donnell @msjaneod.bsky.social · 11/06/2025

Was privileged to be asked to host a panel discussion with #ACOSVO this morning. Great examples of innovation and values led leadership delivering for their communities

000

Jane O’Donnell @msjaneod.bsky.social · 08/06/2025

A new #reading experience for me this week. I have been really interested in stoicism in how we get through difficult times so decided to try some source material. Not all of it is respectful of emotional experience but there is lot here in terms of duty, practical intelligence and community. 📚💙

060

Jane O’Donnell @msjaneod.bsky.social · 26/05/2025

A great opportunity for people with LG experience 👇

010

Reposted by Jane O’Donnell

Audit Scotland @auditscotland.bsky.social · 22/05/2025

Mounting pressures from inflation, increasing costs and demand are exceeding the Scottish Government’s additional investment in Scotland’s councils. Read the Accounts Commission's latest report on the finances of Scotland's councils: bit.ly/Local_Govern...

Text says: Briefing. Local government budgets 2025/26.
Image: 13 £1 coins scattered on a blue and yellow background.

032

Reposted by Jane O’Donnell

NASUWT Scotland @nasuwtscotland.bsky.social · 08/05/2025

Cllr Shona Morrison, COSLA President, spoke about celebrating all things local government, their role and duty to strengthen democracy as well as the importance of diversity in representation, reflecting she is only the second female president. 📸 with Cllr Steven Heddle & NASUWT Scotland President.

122

Reposted by Jane O’Donnell

Alison Watson @alisonwatson.bsky.social · 09/05/2025

It was both a pleasure and a privilege to be part of celebrating the first 50 years of COSLA 🎂

022

Reposted by Jane O’Donnell

COSLA @cosla.gov.uk · 13/05/2025

This week marks #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek! The theme is 'community'. COSLA's Health and Social Care Spokesperson, Councillor Paul Kelly, welcomed the focus of Mental Health Awareness Week and highlighted the importance of community and connection for mental health ⬇️

"This year we welcome a Mental Health Awareness Week focused on the importance of community, recognising that being part of safe and positive communities is vital for our mental health and wellbeing. Communities provide a sense of belonging, purpose and support, and we know Local Authorities play an important role in creating and supporting the environments and opportunities to bring them together. I welcome the opportunity to highlight the importance of these community connections. "

021

Reposted by Jane O’Donnell

COSLA @cosla.gov.uk · 14/05/2025

COSLA's email bulletin for Elected Members has been published! In the latest issue: 🟣Applications now open for the COSLA Excellence Awards 🟣Parliamentary Reception celebrating COSLA's 50th Year 🟣Support, information & resources for Councillors 🔗https://mailchi.mp/cosla/cosla-emb-14th-may-2025

022

Reposted by Jane O’Donnell

COSLA @cosla.gov.uk · 09/05/2025

COSLA celebrated its 50th Birthday with a reception at The Scottish Parliament yesterday evening. Huge thank you to all who attended, and to our wonderful guest speakers - Sir Neil McIntosh and @shonarobisonmsp.bsky.social. We're looking forward to sharing more insights from the event soon!

021

Jane O’Donnell @msjaneod.bsky.social · 05/05/2025

Starting a week off work in style buying @edbookfest.bsky.social tickets. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, RF Kuang and @kermodemovie.bsky.social all in the space of a few weeks. Bring it on August….

edbookfest.bsky.social

010

Reposted by Jane O’Donnell

COSLA @cosla.gov.uk · 02/05/2025

It's almost time to launch the 2025 COSLA Excellence Awards - celebrating the very best in Scottish Local Government. Applications open on Tuesday 6th of May. Find out more: cosla.gov.uk/news/2025/th...

021

Reposted by Jane O’Donnell

COSLA @cosla.gov.uk · 01/05/2025

Our greatly missed Head of Communications, David Kennedy, who sadly passed away in March, has been celebrated in today's edition of The Scotsman with an obituary recognising his incredible contribution. www.scotsman.com/news/people/...

scotsman.com

Scotsman Obituaries: David Kennedy, Cosla communications chief with a talent for always finding right words

David Kennedy, Cosla Head of Communications. Born: 26 October,1965. Died: 22 March 2025, aged 59

031

Reposted by Jane O’Donnell

Elect Her @electheruk.bsky.social · 22/04/2025

We listen. All of our work is founded on listening to women. Hannah, our CEO, speaks of our passion for change - supporting women to stand & thrive. But it doesn't stop there - we are also focused on Fixing the System - to make democracy fit! Thanks to @improvserv.bsky.social & @cosla.gov.uk

youtu.be

Women’s political representation | 16 Days Spotlight 2024

YouTube video by Improvement Service

034

Reposted by Jane O’Donnell

COSLA @cosla.gov.uk · 23/04/2025

As conversations take place around protecting democracy, COSLA and Scottish Local Government will continue to work to strengthen local democracy - our President, @morayshona.bsky.social, has said today.

At the heart of cohesive society is a strong, well-functioning democracy that respects the critical role and voice of the communities it serves. COSLA and Scottish Local Government are committed to strengthening local democracy where communities of place, interest and practice are all able to participate and be involved in the decisions that affect them most. At the heart of this must be a relationship based on trust and mutual respect. Not only do we want to see a more diverse and representative elected member body across Scotland, we also want a society where we all live free from discrimination, harassment and victimisation. COSLA and its member Councils will continue to put our communities at the heart of the services we deliver.

021

Jane O’Donnell @msjaneod.bsky.social · 22/04/2025

This was really funny - definitely worth a read if you are looking for something light but clever 💙📚

110

Jane O’Donnell @msjaneod.bsky.social · 22/04/2025

Remembering Stephen Lawrence who was murdered on this day in 1993 by racists. #stephenlawrenceday

000

Jane O’Donnell @msjaneod.bsky.social · 14/04/2025

With thanks to Angiolina Foster for her exceptional leadership as Chair of Public Health Scotland- it is now time to recruit the next Chair Jointly sponsored by COSLA & Scottish Govt, we need a true systems leader in this role. Please share. …asfaukgovprod1.fa.ocs.oraclecloud.com/hcmUI/Candidat…

000

Reposted by Jane O’Donnell

COSLA @cosla.gov.uk · 28/03/2025

Thanks to all who came along to our mini-conference this morning - we're delighted that so many Councillors were able to join us either online or in person. Find out more about the important topics discussed today: bit.ly/3DKmVfT

031

Reposted by Jane O’Donnell

Heather Brannan-McVey @heatherbmv73.bsky.social · 25/03/2025

@cosla.gov.uk has tasked me to represent them at the hemicycle of the Congress for Regional and Local Authorities. Today I have spoken on Human rights in local government, Teaching Social History & Tackling violence against women in politics.

022

Jane O’Donnell @msjaneod.bsky.social · 27/03/2025

The factsheet we have put together will hopefully help clarify some of the misinformation out there on councillor remuneration

011

Reposted by Jane O’Donnell

COSLA @cosla.gov.uk · 27/03/2025

COSLA’s Community Wellbeing Spokesperson, @maureenchalmers.bsky.social has shared words of condolence today following the sad news that Christina McKelvie MSP, Minister for Drug and Alcohol Policy, has died.

082

Jane O’Donnell @msjaneod.bsky.social · 24/03/2025

We have lost a great colleague and friend @COSLA - tributes are coming in across local government, national government and the media. He was one of the kindest and funniest men I have ever met and my thoughts are with his beloved family 💜

020

Reposted by Jane O’Donnell

COSLA @cosla.gov.uk · 21/03/2025

COSLA's email bulletin for Elected Members has been published! In the latest issue: 🟣Strengthening Local Democracy: Women's Leadership Campaign 🟣Councillor Safety 🟣Keeping Children Safe in Scotland ...and much more➡️ mailchi.mp/cosla/cosla-...

022

Reposted by Jane O’Donnell

COSLA @cosla.gov.uk · 18/03/2025

How do you encourage other women to excel in leadership roles? COSLA Chief Executive @msjaneod.bsky.social answered for our Strengthening Local Democracy: Women In Leadership campaign👇 Read more➡️ www.cosla.gov.uk/news/2025/st... #InspiringLocalGovernment

Image of Jane O'Donnell and text reading it is vital to recognise that equal pay and workplace flexibility are key to ensuring women thrive in the workplace. These rights are far from realised across our society and we are holding ourselves to exacting standards on both these aspects of our work at COSLA

084

Reposted by Jane O’Donnell

COSLA @cosla.gov.uk · 14/03/2025

COSLA’s Health and Social Care Spokesperson, Cllr Paul Kelly met today with Chief Executives of local carer centres across Scotland for a roundtable discussion organised by Carers Trust Scotland alongside the Minister for Social Care, Mental Wellbeing and Sport, Maree Todd MSP.

121