Smaller Councils Committee focuses on committee elections and key initiatives

The National Association of Local Councils (NALC) Smaller Councils Committee met on 10 October 2023 to discuss the upcoming NALC committee elections and other key initiatives. 

The committee heard more about NALC's ongoing efforts to promote the committee elections. NALC emphasised the multifaceted approach employed to raise awareness about the elections. These strategies include using the weekly chief executive's bulletin, social media, and targeted emails to reach county associations and increase participation. 

One pivotal decision made during the meeting was the appointment of Cllr Josephine Parish (Corfe Castle Parish Council in Dorset) and Cllr Graham Ford (Illogan Parish Council in Cornwall) to a newly established Martyn's Law Steering Group. This group's primary mission is to oversee the implementation of legislation stemming from Martyn's Law and to provide guidance and advice to ensure its appropriateness. 

Another pressing matter discussed by the committee was financial resilience. They collectively decided to submit individual responses to the consultation regarding the technical aspects of NALC's Model Financial Regulations. Moreover, committee members agreed to share general comments on these regulations with Steve Parkinson from The Parkinson Partnership LLP. They also invited NALC partners, Worknest, to participate in the upcoming committee meeting. 

Addressing the urgent issue of climate emergency, the committee affirmed that small councils hold a crucial role in addressing this challenge. They encouraged these councils to explore resources on the NALC website and contemplate joining the climate emergency national network. This network offers access to best practices and expert advice, enabling small councils to actively contribute to mitigating the climate crisis. 

The committee also received an update on the Civility and Respect Project. The project aims to promote respectful and civil behaviour within local (parish and town) councils, fostering a harmonious working environment.