Local Government Information Unit

The Local Government information Unit (LGiU) is a London-based thinktank and registered charity. Established in 1983 as a membership organisation for UK local authorities, the LGiU states that its mission is to strengthen local democracy and put citizens in control of their own lives, communities and services. The LGiU has around 150 local authority members and a wide range of associate members and partner organisations.

The Chief Executive is Jonathan Carr-West, formerly of the RSA. Andy Sawford was Chief Executive of the LGiU until 2012, when he was elected MP for Corby. The Chair of the Board is Councillor Michael Payne of Gedling Borough Council, Nottinghamshire. In July 2008 the LGiU was voted Thinktank of the Year in the Public Affairs News Awards.

The LGiU has released a number of publications on policy areas including devolution, localism, adult social care, public-private sector partnerships and the role of local authorities in the schools system. They also frequently publish policy briefings for members, as well as a daily news service. They publish C'llr magazine for councillors in England and Wales, and run the C'llr Achievement Awards, which recognises achievement in local government.