Michael Winders joins the department in early July, having worked as the Cabinet Office’s head of news since last November. Winders said: ‘I'm excited to be joining DCLG at a time when issues like housing, community cohesion and the battle against extremism are moving to the top of the news agenda.’
Housing is expected to be high on DCLG’s agenda over the coming year. DCLG is also expected to publish a white paper on community empowerment, outlining how local people can have a bigger voice to shape local services. There will also be a housing reform green paper and further action on preventing violent extremism.Winders will report to DCLG director of comms John Shield.
Winders will work closely with the secretary of state for communities and local government Hazel Blears.