Before the significant reorganisation of local government in 1974, the UK’s local governance landscape was structured differently, reflecting a historical evolution that dated back many decades. Two key organisations that played vital roles in this pre-1974 era were the Society of Town Clerks and the Society of County Clerks.

Both societies provided platforms for networking, knowledge sharing, and professional development among their members, contributing significantly to the efficient functioning of local government entities before the reorganisation of 1974. Their longstanding presence and contributions underscored the rich history and evolution of local governance in the UK.

In 1974, a significant reorganisation of Local Government occurred following the release of the Baines Report. This restructuring brought about substantial changes to the shape and structures of Local Government management, leading to the amalgamation of two key societies: The Society of Town Clerks and the Society of County Clerks. This union resulted in the establishment of a new entity known as the Society of Local Authority Chief Executives and Senior Managers (Solace).

Solace was founded as the representative body for Chief Executives and senior managers across all UK local authorities and related organisations. The inaugural President of Solace was Sir John Boynton, who served as the first Chief Executive of the newly formed Cheshire County Council. This marked a pivotal moment in local governance, ushering in an era of collaborative leadership and professional representation within the sector.

Throughout its history, Solace has witnessed several milestone events that shaped its trajectory. Notably, in 1966, Pamela Gordon became the first female President of Solace, marking a significant step towards diversity and inclusivity in leadership roles. Similarly, Pamela Gordon made history as the first female Chief Executive of a London Borough Hackney LBC and later in 1989 the first female chief executive of a Metropolitan authority, Sheffield City Council, (read Pamela’s contribution to our Rewind report) paving the way for more women to take on leadership roles within the sector.

In 1996, Solace Enterprises (now Solace in Business) was first incorporated under the umbrella of Solace, reflecting the organisation’s commitment to supporting professional development and business excellence among its members. Solace’s evolution mirrored the development of the sector and the growing role of chief executives as strategic leaders within local government. This transformation aligned with broader shifts in public administration, emphasising efficiency, accountability, and community engagement.

#50YearsOfSolace

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