How Councils Actually Work (And Why Your Voice Matters More Than You Think) | GRAFT According to Sally Holland

From the skies to the council chamber, Sally Holland’s path to public service wasn’t planned. A former Virgin Atlantic Cabin Service Director turned twice-elected Mayor of Congleton and Cheshire East councillor, Sally lifts the lid on how local government really works - and how ordinary people can actually influence decisions.In this episode, Sally joins Ben to demystify councils (town/parish vs borough vs Westminster), explain where the money goes, and walk through real local flashpoints like road crossings and car-park rules. Expect straight talk on budgets, accountability, and the practical steps that get you heard before the diggers arrive.🎧 Listen as we discuss…(00:00) – From cabin crew to councillor: falling into politics by accident(02:12) – Town & parish vs borough vs national: who actually does what(05:10) – What councils control: highways, planning, licensing, social care(08:24) – Budgets 101: why adult & children’s social care dominate spend(11:05) – Case study: the controversial crossing, consultations, and costs(15:18) – Car parks, caps, and common sense: reading the usage data(18:40) – Committee system vs cabinet system: why accountability matters(22:11) – Being Mayor (twice): workload, wardrobe, and “Mayor Bear”(25:36) – Confidence after a career break: identity, service, and purpose(28:44) – How to influence: speaking at committees, recorded votes, evidence(32:10) – Why media narratives muddy the waters—and how to cut through(35:22) – A playbook for locals: six quick wins to make change happenGUESTSally Holland: Cheshire East councillor (Conservative), twice Mayor of Congleton, former Virgin Atlantic Cabin Service Director, community advocate, and business owner.