Holding Up the Mirror

Holding up the mirror

True stories about public service in a post-truth world

The stories we tell about ourselves, our work and the lives we’re trying to change are more important today than ever before.

In this challenging collection of short, short stories rising stars in local government, senior managers and frontline workers share their hopes, fears and ideas about the future of public service and the realities of working in a sector that’s facing new uncertainties every day.

These are true stories – imaginative, innovative, celebratory, pragmatic and stoical – all with an important message about holding up the mirror to the way we are now so we can change the future for the better.

“These stories tell us so much about the reality of our work today; the challenges we face and the solutions we’re finding. They’re brimming with creativity and innovation, but don’t shy away from the hard choices we’re grappling with. They’re stories for the age we’re living in – and they can help to steer the future we want for our sector.”

Jo Miller, SOLACE President

Truth to power. Reading the future. London Bridge. Trans community. Marginal gain. Pub yoga. Shopping with mum. X marks the spot. Flitting. Making money.