Online events

Past events

In conversation: Building back stronger communities
Sponsors: BHIB Councils Insurance, Blachere Illumination and CCLA

With 100 days of lockdown behind us and restrictions beginning to ease, now is the time to start looking ahead to how local councils can support their communities to rebuild and recover. Join this interactive event to hear from others across the most local tier of local government and share your aspirations and plans. We hope you will leave the event with a renewed passion for how your council can make a difference and have met and heard from people across the country to get a wide and varied insight from across the sector.

Speakers: Cllr Christine Ward, Cottenham Parish Council and Cllr Mike Drew, Yate Town Council

Leaders talk: Building back stronger communities
Sponsors: BHIB Councils Insurance, Blachere Illumination and CCLA

During the COVID-19 lockdown, communities have learnt how resilient they really are, and local councils have proven how key they are to that response and recovery effort. But communities recover best and quickest when local agencies work together in partnership. Join this panel session to hear from others at different local and central government levels - share and discuss your own views. Hear from other community resilience experts how your local council can best partner up and deliver sustainable post-COVID solutions for your communities.

Speakers: Cllr James Jamieson, chairman of the LGA, Cllr Sue Baxter, chairman of NALC and Bill Grimsey, Grimsey review lead.

Putting trees at the heart of your community
In partnership with The Woodland Trust

NALC is pleased to announce that we are hosting a free online event in partnership with The Woodland Trust. This event will cover how local councils can improve residents' health and well-being, provide sustainable wildlife habitats, and tackle climate change with woods and trees. You will come away from this event to understand the role local councils can play by joining the Tree Charter Movement. We will also discuss how to obtain free tree packs and reveal how your community can participate in National Tree Charter Day celebrations in November 2020.

Speakers: Zara Holden, programme delivery lead (Tree Charter) and Sarah Shorley, urban projects officer at The Woodland Trust

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Planning for the future

NALC is delighted to announce this online event on the government's Planning For the Future white paper, which is out for consultation, with a specific focus on the implications for neighbourhood planning. This will be a timely and unique opportunity to discuss and help understand the proposed changes. You will hear directly from government officials about proposals for streamlining the planning process, digitizing the planning system for plan-making and decision-taking, focusing on design and sustainability, reforming developer contributions and infrastructure delivery, making more land available for housing delivery, and what next for the neighbourhood planning. You will be able to pose your questions and input views through the question and answer session and come away from this event to understand how the proposals will affect communities and local councils' role in the planning system.

Speakers: Jennifer Beresford, lead on plan-making policy, Robert Griffith, senior planning officer and Chris Mountain, development plans at the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government

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Rebuilding sustainable communities
Sponsors: BHIB Councils Insurance, Blachere Illumination and CCLA

So, your local council has declared a climate emergency… what next? Hear from sector experts, experienced councillors and share your own stories on rebuilding greener and more sustainable communities. We will talk about climate action plans, how to work with your principal authority, how to ensure your community assets are sustainable, and how to ensure your council's biodiversity. The COVID-19 pandemic has increased the link between our own health and that of the planet. We hope you will leave the event with a renewed passion for tackling climate change locally with the confidence to activate it within your council.

Speakers: Sandra Bell, senior sustainability analyst at Friends of the Earth, Clara Goldsmith, campaigns director at The Climate Coalition and Peter Macfadyen, Extinction Rebellion and former mayor of Frome Town Council

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The future of health challenges post COVID-19
Sponsors: BHIB Councils Insurance, Blachere Illumination, CCLA, Came & Company Local Council Insurance, the Centre for Ageing Better, the Epilepsy Society, HAGS and Parish Online

This session will be a strategic look at how local councils can help their communities overcome the health challenges in their areas when the current pandemic eases. Listen to experts and principal authorities to provide their vision on the future health challenges for communities and how local councils can support their communities in managing these issues.

Speakers: Olivia Butterworth, head of public participation at NHS England, Chrissie Geeson, head of localities and partnerships at Suffolk County Council and Jeremy Hughes CBE, consultant to the Royal Voluntary Service

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Collaboration for health and wellbeing
Sponsors: BHIB Councils Insurance, Blachere Illumination, CCLA, Came & Company Local Council Insurance, the Centre for Ageing Better, the Epilepsy Society, HAGS and Parish Online

Join this event to get a local and national perspective on how partnership working across different levels of local government and with other agencies can positively impact the health and well-being of local communities. You will hear how relationships and the common aim of serving parished communities have led to improved outcomes across Essex, plus hear how local partnerships can support more people to enjoy their later life.

Speakers: Danielle Frost, health and wellbeing officer at the Essex Association of Local Councils, Dr Mike Gogarty, director of wellbeing, public health and communities at Essex County Council and Justin Newman, director of strategy and partnerships at the Centre for Ageing Better

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Local councils and hidden disabilities
Sponsors: BHIB Councils Insurance, Blachere Illumination, CCLA, Came & Company Local Council Insurance, the Centre for Ageing Better, the Epilepsy Society, HAGS and Parish Online

Local councils are best placed to understand the hidden disabilities in their communities. Hear from sector specialists how to recognise residents with dementia and epilepsy and how your local council can ensure their wellbeing and safety. You will also hear from two councillors who have installed projects in their area to support residents with hidden disabilities. You will come away with a unique understanding of what hidden disabilities look like, how your council can safeguard residents in local groups and the future of safeguarding post-COVID-19.

Speakers: Cllr Liz Hitchins, chair of Dementia Friendly Parishes around the Yealm, Clare Pelham, chief executive of the Epilepsy Society and Ian Sheriff, academic partnership lead for dementia at the University of Plymouth

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Supporting mental health in your community
Sponsors: BHIB Councils Insurance, Blachere Illumination, CCLA, Came & Company Local Council Insurance, the Centre for Ageing Better, the Epilepsy Society, HAGS and Parish Online

Now more than ever, the challenge of mental health is of increasing importance. This event will focus on those challenges and how local councils can support their communities. We live through unprecedented times, where many face isolation and fear that they have never experienced before. You will hear from the leading mental health charity and other organisations to learn about supporting mental health in your communities. You will share your own experiences and ideas on how your council finds solutions for residents on mental health.

Speaker: Amy Browne, stewardship lead at CCLA, Paul Farmer, chief executive at Mind and Imogen Smith, senior project officer at Communities Prepared

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Frome — youth first
Sponsors: BHIB Councils Insurance, Blachere Illumination and CCLA

Come and learn about Frome Town Council's unique youth services offer. See how this dynamic council has engaged with Frome's young people's cross-sections during the COVID-19 lockdown, working with different local stakeholders. Learn about the council's People's Budget plans for a funded young people project. Find out about the council's dynamic Link and Learn training for young people. See how the council delivers its excellent Power of Play training – engaging with active young people whilst social distancing in Frome.

Speakers: Rachel Griffin, marketing and communications manager and Kate Hellard, community development manager at Frome Town Council

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Local councils and the future of play
Sponsors: BHIB Councils Insurance, Blachere Illumination and CCLA

Early in the pandemic, playgrounds, schools, playgroups and many other play opportunities were closed. We will learn in time what impact that will have had on so many children and young people. Our relationship with outside spaces and nature has changed this year. Many local (parish and town) councils have an opportunity to think about the facilities in their local area to ensure that children and young people can have access to opportunities for play no matter what the future holds. You will hear national perspectives on how important play is for children and young people and how local councils can use their parks, playgrounds and other facilities to enable play to be a part of every childhood in a post-COVID-19 world.

Speakers: Anita Grant, chair of trustees for Play England and chief executive at the Islington Play Association, Mark Hardy, chairman of the Association of Play Industries and Cllr Teresa Heritage, vice-chairman of the Local Government Association Children and Young People’s Board and deputy leader of Hertfordshire County Council

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Biggleswade — strategic planning for larger projects
Sponsors: BHIB Councils Insurance, Blachere Illumination and CCLA

Come and learn about Biggleswade Town Council's unique approach to strategic planning. See how this dynamic council uses strategic planning to deliver projects across all local public policy areas, working with vastly different bodies. Be inspired by a town council from whom we should all be learning how strategic planning can effectively deliver all public policy outcomes.

Speakers: Cllr Madeline Russell, mayor and Peter Tarrant, chief executive and town clerk at Biggleswade Town Council

Why representation in local councils matters
Sponsors: BHIB Councils Insurance, Blachere Illumination and CCLA

As the most local government body, local (parish and town) councils are closest to their communities and can influence real change. For our councils to be effective, we need people from all backgrounds and experiences who reflect their community to put themselves forward for election. By attending this online event, you will come away with an understanding of the importance of representation and inclusion across the parish and town council sector. You will hear from sector experts how to reach all groups of people in your community and encourage them to be a part of the council ahead of the May 2021 elections.

Speakers: Rachael Farrington, founder of Voting Counts, Nick Gardham, chief executive officer at Community Organisers and Judeline Nicholas, diversity and inclusion consultant

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Building back resilient communities
Sponsors: BHIB Councils Insurance, Blachere Illumination and CCLA

Before lockdown, many local (parish and town) councils across England had already proven beyond measure their worth to their communities' resilience agenda. Coronavirus has now permanently embedded local councils' crucial role in community resilience in their areas. This final session in the Rebuilding Communities online event series will highlight the relevance of local councils to key aspects of community recovery as we begin to emerge from lockdown – ranging from the future of community resilience to partnership working. Book onto this exciting session for an essential blend of strategic, practical and community-facing outcomes for your residents.

Speakers: Nora Corkery, chief executive officer of Devon Communities Together, Mark Law, former chair of Locality and chief executive of Barca Leeds and Cllr Bridget Smith, deputy chair of the Local Government Association Safer and Stronger Communities Board and leader of South Cambridgeshire District Council

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The power of a local council and community business partnership
Sponsors: BHIB Councils Insurance, Blachere Illumination and CCLA

Post COVID-19, this is a timely moment for the sector to consider how local (parish and town) councils, together with community businesses, can enhance, strengthen and shape communities. Attend this event to learn more about community businesses and be enlightened on how partnerships with community businesses can start in your community.

Speakers: Hannah Barrett, senior project manager at the Plunkett Foundation, Danielle Cohen, development manager at Power to Change and Alan Collard, an adviser at the Plunkett Foundation and chair of Toppesfield Parish Council

Local Council Award Scheme — preparing an award-winning application
Sponsors: BHIB Councils Insurance, Blachere Illumination, CCLA

The Local Council Award Scheme (LCAS) is an accreditation scheme for the local (parish and town) sector to celebrate the successes of councils and provide a mechanism for continuous improvement and development. To ensure all local councils feel confident in applying to the scheme, NALC is hosting this event to provide insights into submitting an award-winning application for each award level. Increasing your chances of achieving the award level hoped for. This event is open to clerks, councillors and council staff interested in the scheme.

Speakers: Anders Hanson, projects manager and Linda Hammond, project officer at the National Association of Local Councils

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How to get young people involved in local councils
Sponsors: BHIB Councils Insurance, Blachere Illumination and CCLA

Want to know how to get young people involved with the council? Are you keen to find the next generation of councillors in your community? Join NALC in exploring the big questions on how and what local (parish and town) councils can do to reach younger people in their community. A panel of young councillors will give precious insights into what made them join their local council, the reasons behind them, how they went from resident to councillor, and what local councils can do to engage with their young residents. There will be a Q&A feature, so come with your successes, failures, and questions for an interactive session so we can all learn from each other.

Speakers: Cllr Katy Brooks, Pembury Parish Council, Cllr Chelsey Jay, Witham Town Council and Cllr Ollie Tucker, Axminster Town Council

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Reopening and reimagining your community buildings
Sponsors: BHIB Councils Insurance, Blachere Illumination, CCLA and Scribe - Scribe Bookings.

Want to see your community thrive post-COVID-19? With lockdown ending, now is the perfect time to consider the role your village hall or community centre can play in revitalising your community. Find out how you can make your community-building the place to be in your neighbourhood. Learn how to encourage existing users of your community facility to return and market your venue to new users.

Speakers: Deborah Clarke, rural evidence and village halls manager at Action with Communities in Rural England, Andrew McKenzie, town clerk of Dawlish Town Council and Tim O’Shea, managing director at Scribe - Scribe Bookings

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Planning and power
Sponsors: BHIB Councils Insurance, Blachere Illumination and CCLA

The Planning White Paper in 2020 signalled a new sense of direction in the world of planning as the government seeks to meet housing targets and provide places for people to live. But at what cost to local democracy? Come to this event and listen to a dynamic panel discussion where the local flow of power goes in the planning process. Have your say on keeping planning local and keeping the voice of local communities in the planning system loud, clear and heard.

Speakers: Richard Blyth, head of policy practice and research at the Royal Town Planning Institute, Hugh Ellis, policy director at the Town and Country Planning Association and Cllr Anna Watson, Shipley Town Council

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The future of high streets and town centres
Sponsors: BHIB Councils Insurance, Blachere Illumination and CCLA

High streets and town centres are at the heart of local communities. They provide essential services, facilities and spaces that bring people together. Yet 2020 was the worst year for the high street in 25 years, with the closure of many shops and job losses. Footfall has been declining while online shopping has increased, with the pandemic accelerating both. How do we reinvigorate and repurpose high streets and town centres? With markets leading the return of the high street, how can they play a vital part in the recovery? What role should local (parish and town) councils play in helping build back better? The event will look at the importance of high streets and town centres and their ever-changing landscape, how to revive them, consider what's next for the future, and provide expert insights and advice.

Speakers: Matt Baker, Grimsey Review Team, Cllr Suzannah Clarke, chair of planning at Lewisham Council, Ojay McDonald, chief executive of the Association of Town and City Management and David Preston, chief executive of the National Association of British Market Authorities

Host: Katherine Owen, external affairs at Blachere Illumination

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Local Council Award Scheme — preparing an award-winning application
Sponsors: BHIB Councils Insurance, Blachere Illumination and CCLA

Speakers: Anders Hanson, projects manager and Lisa Etchell, projects officer at the National Association of Local Councils

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Levelling up the environment through biodiversity net gain
Sponsors: BHIB Councils Insurance, Blachere Illumination and CCLA

That "we should leave the environment in a better state than we found it" is a key aim of the government's 25-year Environment Plan. As biodiversity net gain becomes one of the ways councils can fight climate change through requirements on planning authorities and forthcoming new environmental legislation, this event will examine what this means for local councils and what they can do for their area. Hear a stark assessment of the biodiversity crisis and how planning and environmental legislation will impact communities and local councils. Find out more about local nature recovery strategies, how local councils can help police the 30-year net gain from developments and take action now to improve biodiversity and level up the environment.

Speakers: Cllr Ed Gemmell, Hazlemere Parish Council and Scientists Warning Europe and Professor Dave Goulson, University of Sussex

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Making rural housing more affordable
Sponsors: BHIB Councils Insurance, Blachere Illumination and CCLA

Affordable rural housing is becoming even harder to obtain for residents in rural parished areas. As land on which to build such housing becomes scarcer and the planning system goes through yet another major overhaul – the net effect seems to be even more socially isolated younger and other people priced out of homeownership in their own areas. At this event, hear from sector experts about the difference local (parish and town) councils can make to influence local initiatives to make housing cheaper and affordable in rural areas – against the odds.

Speakers: Lord Best, chair of the Affordable Housing Commission, Martin Collett, chief executive at English Rural and Richard Quallington, executive director at Action for Communities in Rural England

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Levelling up the nation and our communities
Sponsors: BHIB Councils Insurance, Blachere Illumination and CCLA

At the 2019 general election, the Conservative Party manifesto included a commitment to "levelling up every part of the UK – not just investing in our great towns and cities, as well as rural and coastal areas, but giving them far more control of how that investment is made".

Fast forward two years and the prime minister's driving mission of the government arguably still lacks detail, despite significant pots of funding being announced. And a white paper on devolution widely expected to be published last year has been delayed. But following the recent cabinet reshuffle, levelling up is centre stage, now featuring in the name of a rebranded government department along with a new levelling up the minister. More details are finally to be revealed in a levelling up and recovery white paper due to be published this Autumn.

Join us to learn all about the white paper and the government's plans for levelling up and further devolution, and to find out what this all means for local (parish and town) councils.

Speakers: Ailbhe McNabola, director of policy & communications at Power to Change, Will Tanner, director at Onward and Tom Walker, director of the Levelling Up Unit at the Cabinet Office

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Working together to make communities safer
Sponsors: BHIB Councils Insurance, Blachere Illumination and CCLA

According to the Office of National Statistics, the pandemic affected patterns of crime and decreases across individual crime types such as theft offences were offset by rises in fraud and computer misuse offences, resulting in no change in overall levels of crime. Just 26% of the public say the government are doing a good job on dealing with crime, according to recent polling by IPSOS Mori.

So just how safe do communities actually feel? How are the Police and Crime Commissioners (PCC's) working with communities to reduce crime and improve community safety? And what part can local (parish and town) councils play using their existing powers and funding?

You will hear more about the role and work of the PCC's since being first elected in 2012 to replace police authorities, how they are engaging and working with communities and local councils, and about the important role police and crime panels play in scrutinising PCCs, how effective it is, and their link to local councils, along with tips and good practice.

Speakers: Cllr John Gili-Ross, chair of the National Police Fire and Crime Panel and vice-chair of the Essex Association of Local Councils and Caroline Henry, police and crime commissioner for Nottinghamshire

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Fighting climate change
Sponsors: BHIB Councils Insurance, Blachere Illumination and CCLA

37% of local (parish and town) councils have declared a climate emergency, with a further 8% declaring a biodiversity emergency. Local councils recognise the importance of climate change, but many feel disempowered to act. In October 2021, NALC published its Climate Change Survey Report. The results indicated that 25% of local councils believed they were too small to make a difference, and a further 20% stated they lacked the resources and power to act.

However, a recent report from New Local highlights the importance of local action in the face of national and international inaction, emphasising the need to conceive of climate change as a series of local problems rather than one single global issue. By taking on small actions, communities that work together can bring about significant change overall.

Learn more about the actions that councils can take locally to fight climate change and discover how councils are already doing this successfully.

Speakers: Chris Bagshaw, Kendal Climate Change Jury representative, Dr Amy Burnett, founder of Development in Transition and Mike Childs, head of science, policy & research at Friends of the Earth

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Local Council Award Scheme — preparing an award-winning application
Sponsors: BHIB Councils Insurance, Blachere Illumination and CCLA

Speakers: Anders Hanson, projects manager and Lisa Etchell, projects officer at the National Association of Local Councils

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How to review neighbourhood planning policies
Sponsors: BHIB Councils Insurance, Blachere Illumination and CCLA

Many of the first waves of neighbourhood plans adopted by local (parish and town) councils since the Localism Act 2011 are now up for renewal and need to be reviewed and refreshed.

Over the last 18 months, research published by the University of Reading confirmed that local councils manage around 90% of neighbourhood plans. However, there are concerns that local councils are not renewing plans and councils that previously had no plans are not producing them.

Learn more about how your council can develop a neighbourhood plan from scratch and how to review and renew existing plans.

Speakers: Tony Burton, free-range consultant at Tony Burton Consulting Ltd and Francis Shaw, neighbourhood planning programme manager at Locality

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Giving local councils more of a say on housing
Sponsors: BHIB Councils Insurance, Blachere Illumination and CCLA

According to research undertaken by the National Housing Federation and the homelessness charity Crisis, 340,000 new homes a year need to be built in England until 2031 to address the current housing backlog and future demand. However, while there is a consensus on the long-term housing supply and the need to address it, there is less agreement about building the required number of homes.

So, what are the options for building more homes? How much of a say can local people have regarding the type and design of new homes? And what role can local (parish and town) councils play in facilitating different types of new housing locally?

Hear about how local councils can get involved in different models of community house building and influence the design of new homes.

Speakers: Tom Chance, chief executive at the Community Land Trust Network, Blase Lambert, chief officer at the Confederation of Co-operative Housing and Jo Lavis, director at Rural Housing Solutions

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Working between the tiers
Sponsors: BHIB Councils Insurance, Blachere Illumination and CCLA

Local (parish and town) councils are not just at the heart of communities but also the first tier of local government. Their actions make a massive difference in the quality of life for residents. Over the last decade, due to changes in the legislative backdrop of localism, working relationships between local government tiers have changed. How principal authorities engage with local councils varies greatly; different drivers often include financial, political and place-based priorities.

There is a need for effective local governance in communities. Local councils are instrumental in sustaining their communities and ensuring the well-being of residents. The pandemic only exacerbated systemic challenges, such as financial restrictions and devolved services. What does this mean for the local council sector? How can we ensure principal authorities engage with local councils on devolution matters? And how can we ensure local councils have the resources to deliver more services?

Join us to learn more about the different frameworks that can facilitate a better connection between local councils and principal authorities and improve local service delivery.

Speakers: Tony Blake, programme director at Shared Intelligence and Philip Clifford, senior advisor at the Local Government Association

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Local councils and communication strategies
Sponsors: BHIB Councils Insurance, Blachere Illumination and CCLA

Forging connections, primarily with residents and stakeholders, is intrinsic to local (parish and town) councils' work, and communications strategies lie at the heart of this.

Establishing and maintaining a good reputation for your council's work builds the trust and confidence on which public services depend for their legitimacy.

Join us to learn more about communicating with a purpose and the importance of choosing appropriate communications tools.

Speakers: Cllr John Harvey, chair of the Communications Strategy Group at Buckingham Town Council, Alix Macfarlane, joint chair of LGcomms and Daniel Purchese, co-director of Breakthrough Communications

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Local Council Award Scheme — preparing an award-winning application
Sponsors: BHIB Councils Insurance, Blachere Illumination and CCLA

Speakers: Charlotte Eisenhart, head of member services, Anders Hanson, member services manager, and Lisa Etchell, projects officer at the National Association of Local Councils

Local councils and community outreach
Sponsors: BHIB Councils Insurance, Blachere Illumination and CCLA

In the last two decades, there have been numerous attempts to reconcile public service delivery locally with the needs of citizens. However, this has not always been achieved. The landscape of public service delivery remains complex, coordinated through a mixture of public, private, and voluntary organisations.

In the same time frame, the local (parish and town) council sector has grown, with around 300 new local councils. Local councils are integral to vibrant and thriving communities with a wide range of powers but limited duties. Increasingly principal authorities are devolving services to local councils, but harnessing this potential is difficult due to financial, logistical, and power barriers.

Join us to learn more about how local councils can overcome these obstacles, engage in meaningful community outreach, and improve local service delivery.

Speakers: Cllr Stuart Dunn, chair of Coxhoe Parish Council, Cllr Jim McKenna, Cornwall Council and Heather Wills, principal adviser (improvement) at the Local Government Association

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Local councils and community engagement
Sponsors: BHIB Councils Insurance, Blachere Illumination and CCLA

Engagement with residents for local (parish and town) councils is more crucial than ever. But not all local councils or principal authorities do this, or at least not well enough – so local councils must develop a community engagement strategy.

Most local council areas have permanent residents who use all or most facilities and services and visitors who stay for a short time using far fewer. Local councils must be able to gather views from all people who live and visit their communities to provide value-for-money services and assets and to listen and act on feedback to improve a place.

Join us to learn how to engage with residents, which consultation methods to use, and how to involve people in local council decisions.

Speakers: Thomas Chigbo, community engagement and participation manager at TPXimpact, Sarah Greatorex, clerk at Halstead Town Council and Polly Lord, head of local public services research at New Local

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Social isolation and loneliness from the local council perspective
Sponsors: BHIB Councils Insurance, Blachere Illumination and CCLA

Social isolation and loneliness are two of the most significant health issues facing us. Social isolation, defined as the absence of social contact, can lead to low self-esteem and anxiety. Loneliness occurs when there is a mismatch between the quantity and quality of social relationships that individuals have and want to have. The Campaign to End Loneliness estimates that 45% of adults occasionally, sometimes or often feel lonely in England. Recent research on loneliness has shown that people who felt most lonely before the COVID-19 pandemic now have even higher levels of loneliness.

So why are social isolation and loneliness such a big problem? How can social prescribing and other coordinated efforts help improve the wellbeing of people who are socially isolated or lonely? And how can local (parish and town) councils get involved?

Join us to find out how to connect those suffering with practical and emotional community support and how local councils can explore options such as setting up a health and wellbeing board and employing health and wellbeing coordinators.

Speaker: Monica Boulton, community connections lead at the National Academy for Social Prescribing, Robin Hewings, programme director at Campaign to End Loneliness and Vanessa Lowe, town clerk for Alcester Town Council

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Tackling the housing crisis the local way, with custom and self-build homes
Sponsors: BHIB Councils Insurance, Blachere Illumination and CCLA

Building more and better-quality homes is vital to meeting the needs of current and future generations. Communities are more comfortable with development when it creates the homes people want in the places they want to live.

Is it true that self-builds take years to complete, cost a fortune and end up as sprawling, wacky or unattractive? Not many people understand the extent to which custom and self-build can deliver more homes while providing a host of other benefits.

Join us to learn about the benefits, including boosting local economies, improved sustainability, reduced churn in communities and fewer objections to the development, along with tools for success and the next steps for local councils to understand how self and custom build could make a positive difference to their communities.

Speakers: Hugo Davies, architect and founding member of Broadhempston Community Land Trust Affordable Self-build Housing Project and Jeremy Christophers, Right to Build Task Force expert and former leader of Teignbridge District Council

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What local councils can do about emergency planning
Sponsors: BHIB Councils Insurance, Blachere Illumination and CCLA

The outbreak of COVID-19 has highlighted that unexpected events can and do happen, potentially changing how we live our lives.

Local (parish and town) councils are essential to many communities, so they must be prepared for potential emergencies, from weather or climate-related to future public health crises.

Join us to learn more about emergency resilience planning and what your local council can do.

Speakers: Steve Reardon, assistant clerk at Cullompten Town Council and Finn Woodhill, senior project officer at Communities Prepared

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Fighting climate change with local council action
Sponsors: BHIB Councils Insurance, Blachere Illumination and CCLA

For many years, organisations such as Friends of the Earth encouraged communities to act globally and think locally to save the planet. Councils do not get any more local than local (parish and town) councils. But despite the warnings of extreme weather phenomena being a regular occurrence unless net zero is reached within a generation – to what extent are local councils heeding this call?

This event will unveil the latest environmental projects local councils across England have been involved in to increase biodiversity and make an impact in reducing climate change.

Join us to discover how a national stakeholder interested in rural sustainability works with communities to save the planet. Hear excellent local council case studies and get incredible tips to learn how your local council can think globally and act locally in the fight against climate change.

Speaker: Megan Blyth, local and community empowerment project manager at the Centre for Sustainable Energy, Culvin Milmer, visitor services manager and business development officer at Swanage Town Council and Cllr Richard Neale of Draughton Parish Council

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Unlocking opportunities: Applying for the Community Ownership Fund

NALC and the Society of Local Council Clerks (SLCC) are co-hosting an informative online event following the recent extension of the Community Ownership Fund to include parish, town and community councils.

With the opening of the next bidding round (round three) and the deadline for expression of interest fast approaching (21 June 2023), the event offers a valuable opportunity for attendees to gain a comprehensive understanding of the application process. Expert speakers from the Department of Levelling Up Housing and Communities and Locality will guide attendees through the steps in framing successful applications and provide critical insights into what the fund looks for in projects. A dedicated Q&A segment will allow attendees to seek clarification and receive tailored guidance.

If your council has community ownership projects in the pipeline for sports facilities, arts and music venues, museums and galleries, parks, pubs, post offices, and shops, this event is a must-attend. NALC and SLCC have tirelessly advocated for increased access to government funding. Now is the time to ensure the sector receives its fair share to help serve local communities effectively.

Take advantage of this opportunity to unlock funding opportunities and enhance your council's ability to deliver impactful projects. Join us and take a proactive step towards securing the resources your community deserves.

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Demystifying the role of local councillors
Sponsors: BHIB Councils Insurance, Blachere Illumination and CCLA

Have you ever wondered about the role of your local councillor? Do you know what they do or what skills they need to perform their duties effectively?

This event aims to demystify the vital role of local councillors in the community and highlight the crucial skillset they require. Join us to hear from experts in the field who have become brilliant local councillors at various local government levels.

Whether you live in a parished or un-parished area, this event will provide a valuable opportunity to learn about the work and role of local councillors in your community. We will explore how councillors can make a difference in the lives of residents, the challenges they face, and the skills and knowledge they need to succeed.

A panel of experts will share their insights, experiences, and advice. You will have the opportunity to ask questions and engage in discussions, gaining a deeper understanding of the vital contribution that local councillors make to your community.

NB: Councillors re-elected at the 4 May 2023 local (parish and town) council elections will find this event a very useful refresher update, and councillors newly elected on May 2023 will find this online event a very helpful welcome event to the sector.

Speakers: Cllr Michaella Biscomb, vice-chair of Kippax Parish Council, Cllr James Jamieson, chair of the Local Government Association and Cllr Jeremy Richardson of Cold Norton Parish Council

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Engaging with local communities through digital engagement
Sponsors: GoCollaborate

In today's rapidly changing world, digital engagement with local communities has become more crucial, especially when delivering community regeneration and neighbourhood development plans.

Local (parish and town) councils must make it as easy as possible for people to engage with them and be flexible enough to meet the needs of communities.

Join us at this informative event to learn about effective digital engagement strategies that can broaden community participation beyond the usual suspects. You will discover how digital tools and platforms can enable local councils to connect with residents more efficiently and effectively and make it easier for people to engage with the decision-making processes that affect their lives.

Our expert speakers will share their experiences on how digital engagement can help local councils access funding, develop partnerships, and deliver successful regeneration and neighbourhood development projects. You will also learn about the challenges and opportunities in implementing strategies and the skills and resources needed to make them work.

Whether you are a local councillor, community leader, or resident interested in participating in your community's development, this event is an excellent opportunity to gain insights and strategies for effective digital engagement. Join us and learn how to harness the power of digital to empower local communities and deliver successful regeneration projects.

Speakers: Debbie Ford, founder of Chichester Social, Steve Besford Foster, planning consultant for PlanSupport and Camilla Southworth, town clerk at Torpoint Town Council

Model Financial Regulations consultation
Sponsors: BHIB Councils Insurance, Blachere Illumination and CCLA

NALC is working with The Parkinson Partnership LLP to update its 2019 Model Financial Regulations for England and Wales. The model financial regulations are part of a support package that local (parish and town) councils receive through their NALC and county association membership. They are an essential tool for councils of all sizes, setting out the framework within which the council ensures responsible, sustainable and compliant management of its finances.

NALC is seeking views on the technical aspects of the regulations. The responses will inform the revision and content of the model financial regulations.

Empowering young voices in your community
Sponsors: Blachere Illumination, CCLA and Clear Councils Insurance

Local (parish and town) councils have a long history of working with young people in their communities. However, engaging with today's youth can be challenging, especially with the rapid changes in technology and communication.

This event aims to provide practical tips and guidance on new ways to engage with young people in your community, understand their needs, and gather their views on crucial local topics. By listening to young people's voices, local councils can empower them to become leaders and spokespeople for change in their communities.

Join us to learn about strategies for engaging with young people that go beyond traditional methods and find out how to get the most out of the local leaders of tomorrow in your area. Our expert speakers will share their experiences creating effective youth engagement programs, using digital tools, and building strong partnerships with schools, youth organisations, and other community stakeholders.

Whether you are a local councillor, community leader, or youth worker, this event is an excellent opportunity to gain valuable wisdom and helpful tips on engaging with young people and empowering them to impact your community positively. Join us and discover how to harness the power of youth voices to create a better future for all.

Speakers: Danny Brown, regional co-ordinator at the British Youth Council, Cllr Adam Duce of Godalming Town Council and Cllr Stefan Heighway of Great Dawley Town Council

Democracy in Action
A joint event with the Local Government Association

Do you want to give something back to your community? Help local people and achieve great things for your local area? Have a positive impact on wider society?

Hear about how you can be the voice of your community by standing for election as a local councillor at the May 2024 elections and beyond.

This event will provide a valuable opportunity to learn about the work and role of councillors and the huge difference you could make as a local leader in your area.

A panel of experts, including those who have become councillors at various local government levels, will share their insights, experience, and advice. You will also have the opportunity to ask questions, engage in discussions and access the wide range of support available to take action for your community.

Speakers: Jane Biscombe, clerk at Weymouth Town Council, Cllr Katharine Keats-Rohan of Wallingford Town Council and South Oxfordshire District Council, Cllr Chidi Nweke of Epping Forest District Council and Virginia Ponton, Be a Councillor adviser at the Local Government Association

Martyn’s Law – where are we now?
A joint event with the Society of Local Council Clerks

Following the tragic death of Martyn Hett and 21 other people in the Manchester bombing of 2017 and the national campaign led by his mother, Figen Murray, and others for the government to create a law to prevent the same tragedy from happening again – Martyn’s Law is now the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Draft Bill which the government will hopefully make law before the general election.

This joint event will highlight where Martyn’s Law is at in terms of its legislative journey as we await the government's response to the recent Home Affairs Select Committee inquiry into the draft bill. We’ll hear of the potential measures local (parish and town) councils will need to implement if the law is enacted and take away practical tips about how councils can help prevent terrorism in our local areas.

Join us at this exciting awareness-raising event to get the inside track on where this key piece of draft legislation is, what it means for the local council sector and how local councils can best fight terrorism in their communities.

Speakers: Helen Ball, chief executive at Shrewsbury Town Council, Chris Borg, policy manager at the National Association of Local Councils, Lauren Renshaw, head of communications and engagement and Christian Stensrud, head of events and devolved administration engagement at the Home Office

Making the planning system work for local councils
Sponsors: Blachere Illumination, CCLA and Clear Councils Insurance

Planning is undoubtedly the most significant issue affecting most parished communities in England. While the government has retreated from some of its controversial policy commitments from the 2020 white paper, it is time to re-examine the sector's current concerns about planning in local council areas.

Join us at this exciting event to hear from a national policy stakeholder and relevant planning case studies from the local council sector on improving the planning system to meet local (parish and town) council needs. Our expert speakers will share their knowledge on the challenges and opportunities of planning in local councils and discuss approaches for improving community engagement, promoting sustainable development, and ensuring a fair and transparent planning process.

You will have the opportunity to engage in lively discussions with fellow attendees and learn from the experiences of other local councils facing similar planning challenges. Whether you are a local councillor, community leader, planner, or resident interested in planning issues, this event is an excellent opportunity to gain wisdom on revitalising your community's planning.

Join us and discover how to work towards a planning system that meets the needs of local councils and empowers communities to shape their future.

Speakers: Richard Blyth, head of policy and practice at the Royal Town Planning Institute, Cllr Sue Camp, chair of Sevenoaks Town Council Planning Committee, Cllr Sanchia Davidson, vice-chair of Wing Parish Council and Cllr Helen Sunday, chair of Wing Parish Council

Upcoming events

Upcoming events

An introduction to the Local Council Award Scheme: Why and how to apply
12 December 2023 — 12.30 – 13.45
FREE
Sponsors: Blachere Illumination, CCLA and Clear Councils Insurance

The Local Council Award Scheme (LCAS) is an accreditation scheme for local (parish and town) councils in England. It helps recognise the achievements of those in the sector and provides a framework for their continuing improvement.

This free webinar introduces the core principles of the scheme and helps ensure councils have the confidence to put in an application. It is open to clerks, councillors and other council staff interested in the scheme.

It will include:

An introduction to the aims of the Local Council Award Scheme
The benefits of applying
How to apply, how the scheme works, and tips on making the best application possible
How to make the most of achieving accreditation
An opportunity to ask further questions about the scheme

Speakers: Lisa Etchell, projects officer and Anders Hanson, member services manager at the National Association of Local Councils

Winning strategies for the funding game
15 December 2023 — 12.00 – 13.15
NALC member: £30 – Non-member: £40
Sponsors: Blachere Illumination, CCLA and Clear Councils Insurance

Local (parish and town) councils play a vital role in their communities, providing essential services and facilities and promoting economic and social development. However, unlike other local authorities, local councils generally cannot directly apply to central government funding.

This event aims to showcase these exceptions and provide information on why it makes sense from a funder's perspective for local councils to be able to apply for such funds. You will hear from experts and local councils that have successfully secured grant funding. They will share their experiences and tips on navigating the current funding environment and increasing your chances of success.

Join us at this event to discover strategies for winning the funding game. You will learn about the types of funding available to local councils, the eligibility criteria, and the application process. You will also hear about successful case studies that have secured financing and how they have used the funds to benefit their communities.

Whether you are a local councillor, clerk, or community leader, this event is an excellent opportunity to gain valuable insights on accessing funding sources and making the most of funding opportunities for your community. Join us and learn how to play the funding game and win!

Speakers: Linda Larter, chief executive at Sevenoaks Town Council, Stuart McLeod, director of England, London & South at National Lottery Heritage Fund and Andy Reeves, council manager at Central Swindon North Parish Council

How local councils can benefit from the levelling up agenda
31 January 2024 — 12.00 – 13.15
NALC member: £30 – Non-member: £40
Sponsors: Blachere Illumination, CCLA and Clear Councils Insurance

The levelling up agenda has been a hot topic recently, with many questions about what it means, which areas it applies to, and which sectors will benefit. Local (parish and town) councils are uniquely positioned to take advantage of the levelling up agenda, but they need to be prepared for the challenges that come with devolution.

This event will explain how local councils can survive and thrive in a devolved environment by taking on assets, liabilities, and services from their principal authority. You will learn about the benefits and challenges of devolution and hear from experts on how to make the most of the opportunities presented by the levelling up agenda.

Join us to understand better how local councils can benefit from the levelling up agenda and what steps they need to take to prepare for devolution. You will hear from speakers with experience in local government and councils successfully navigating the devolution process. They will share their understandings, best practices, and lessons learned, giving you a helpful perspective on succeeding in a devolved environment.

This event suits local councillors, clerks, and community leaders who want to understand the opportunities and challenges of the levelling up agenda and how to prepare for devolution. Join us to learn how to survive and thrive in a devolved environment and make the most of the opportunities presented by the levelling up agenda.

Speakers: Adam Hawksbee, deputy director at Onward, Sophie Hosking, strategic director for neighbourhoods at Cornwall Council and Cllr Carl Les, leader of North Yorkshire Council

The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly of social media in the local council sector
28 February 2024 — 12.00 – 13.15
NALC member: £30 – Non-member: £40
Sponsors: Blachere Illumination, CCLA and Clear Councils Insurance

Social media can be a powerful tool for local (parish and town) councils to engage with their communities, but it can also be a source of conflict and negativity. This event will explore the benefits and drawbacks of social media use in the sector and provide guidance on how to use it effectively and responsibly.

Join us for a candid discussion on the dos and don’ts of social media in the local council sector. We'll explore case studies and best practices and provide actionable advice on creating a social media policy that promotes civility and respect. Whether you're a seasoned social media user or just getting started, this event is a must-attend for anyone who wants to use social media to build stronger communities.

Reconnecting communities through community transport
27 March 2024 — 12.00 – 13.15
NALC member: £30 – Non-member: £40
Sponsors: Blachere Illumination, CCLA and Clear Councils Insurance

The provision of community transport has become an increasingly important issue for local (parish and town) councils in recent years. With limited public transport options available in many areas, local councils must step up and support low-cost and sustainable community transport schemes to ensure their communities are connected and can access essential services.

Join us at this event, where we will showcase successful community transport programmes that local councils have implemented. We will also provide details into the national stakeholder scene and how local councils can collaborate with other organisations to improve transport options in their area.

Take advantage of this opportunity to learn about the benefits of community transport, how to establish partnerships and funding opportunities, and how your local council can make a difference in reconnecting your community through transport.

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