NALC hosts historic first meeting of women councillors 

NALC held its first National Network: Women councillors meeting on 5 July 2021, which aims to help women councillors from across England's local (parish and town) councils to connect, learn, support and share good practices.

The network chaired by NALC chair, Cllr Sue Baxter, discussed the issues facing women councillors such as behaviour, progressing into leadership roles, using gender-neutral terms and accessing support and advice.

Cllr Baxter also took the opportunity to thank all women councillors for all their efforts in supporting their communities during the pandemic, as part of Thank You Day.

Cllr Baxter, said: “I was thrilled to host the first meeting of the network, as this is something I’ve felt strongly about setting up for some time, particularly as the first-ever woman chair of NALC. Over the last few years, NALC’s #MakeAChange campaign has aimed to encourage more people all backgrounds and experiences to get involved in their community and stand for election as councillors. I was delighted that so many councillors who came to the meeting were new to local councils and just starting out on the rewarding journey to make a change where they live. The meeting provided an invaluable opportunity for new and more experienced councillors to discuss issues of common interest and provide mutual support, and identify ways of staying in touch with each other. I’m keen for more women councillors to join the network and this first meeting was a really important and positive start.”

The network is one of a series of new networks NALC has established this year. Other networks focus on coastal communities, the LGBT+ community, young councillors, with more to be announced.

To find out more and to join the network, please contact NALC at .