Foundations of Change: Building Homes, Building Futures

Foundations of Change: Building Homes, Building Futures

Author: Matt Masters September 9, 2025 Duration: 17:25

In this episode of Foundations of Change, we speak with Sophie Baker, Programme Delivery Manager for the innovative Prisoners Building Homes initiative. This ground breaking programme brings together local authorities, housebuilders, and prisoners to tackle the housing crisis while offering meaningful rehabilitation and skills development. Sophie shares how the programme works, the impact it’s having, and what local councils can do to support and scale this model. We explore the intersection of social justice, housing policy, and community regeneration—and how collaboration can unlock new possibilities for inclusive growth.


Ever wonder what really happens behind the scenes at your city hall or county office? Truth about Local Government pulls back the curtain, offering a clear-eyed look at the systems and people that manage our communities every single day. Hosted by seasoned professional Matt Masters, this podcast moves beyond theory to explore the practical, often unspoken realities of public service. Each episode delves into the challenges and triumphs faced by those in the trenches, from budgeting and infrastructure to community engagement and policy implementation. It’s a space dedicated to the growth and development of local government professionals, but it’s equally valuable for any curious citizen who wants to understand how their neighborhood actually functions. You’ll hear candid conversations that blend experience with actionable insights, all aimed at fostering better leadership and more effective governance. Tune in for a straightforward discussion that replaces jargon with clarity and passion, revealing the human impact of decisions made close to home. This is where the abstract becomes concrete, and where dedicated public servants find a resource for honest reflection and professional development.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Truth about Local Government
Podcast Episodes
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Why LATCOs Need the Right NEDs – A Conversation with Mark Beacom [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 8:11
In this episode, we explore the critical role of governance in local authority trading companies (LATCOs). Host, Matt Masters sits down with Mark Beacom, Partner in the Board, Real Estate & Financial Officers Practices,…
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In this episode, well-being strategist Beth Carr explores the nature of stress, how it’s measured, and how local government professionals can manage it more effectively. She explains the difference between acute and chro…
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Duration: 19:05
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