NALC invites parish and town councillors to shape the future of the 21st-century councillor

We are calling on parish and town councillors across England to take part in a major national event examining what it means to be a 21st-century councillor and to help shape the future support, strategies and resources the sector needs.

As the national voice of parish and town councils, we recognise that the role of councillors is changing. Local government continues to evolve, with shifting responsibilities, increasing service pressures and rising community expectations. Parish and town councillors are at the forefront of responding to these changes, often stepping in to protect valued local services and strengthen community resilience.

This interactive event will provide councillors with the latest updates from the 21st-century councillor research and create space for them to influence the development of new sector strategies directly. Their insights will inform a forthcoming report exploring how the role is evolving and identifying what practical and structural support is required to ensure councillors can continue to lead effectively at the grassroots level.

Attendees will hear practical examples of how councillors are making a tangible difference in today's challenging climate. The event will offer opportunities to share experiences, discuss common challenges and exchange ideas with peers from across the country.

We encourage all parish and town councillors to take part in this important conversation and to help define what effective, resilient and community-focused local leadership looks like in the years ahead.

The event will be delivered by the Institute of Local Government Studies at the University of Birmingham, and is held in partnership with the Association of Democratic Services Officers and the Society of Local Council Clerks.