NALC partners with the University of Birmingham to explore what it means to be a 21st-century parish and town councillor

Our latest event explored what it means to be a 21st-century parish and town councillor, reflecting on how the role is evolving amid increasing responsibilities, rising expectations and a changing local government landscape. 

Delivered in partnership with the University of Birmingham's Institute of Local Government Studies, the Association of Democratic Services Officers and the Society of Local Council Clerks, the event provided an update on the refreshed 21st-century councillor research. 

Professor Catherine Needham from the University of Birmingham and researcher Dave McKenna examined the modern realities of being a parish and town councillor, highlighting what councillors across England are already doing well despite significant challenges. 

Professor Needham presented new findings from the updated research, outlining how the role continues to evolve in response to the long-term impact of austerity, COVID-19, growing civic challenges, the cost-of-living crisis, and the influence of social media. She set out the ten key characteristics of today's councillors and noted, "Councillors are people, people. They connect through conversations in communities. Providing accessibility, asking good questions, and bringing community interests into decision-making forums." 

The event also featured interactive activities led by Dave McKenna, where participants reflected on the qualities of councillors they admire, including trustworthiness, commitment and approachability, and identifiedkey challenges currently facing the sector, such as funding pressures, devolution, and the increasing complexity of social media engagement. 

The event concluded with councillors sharing insights from their own councils, highlighting the wide variation in precepts and responsibilities across the sector. Attendees raised issues relating to capacity, dysfunctional governance, and the opportunities and pressures created by devolution. Many called for further case studies of effective practice, clearer guidance on the respective roles of councillors and clerks, and improved routes for addressing serious governance concerns. 

The event combined research insights with sector-wide reflection, helping to shape the forthcoming research report on the role of 21st-century councillors. Attendees emphasised the growing complexity of the role and the importance of further support, training, and the sharing of good practice. They also expressed a desire to better recognise the resilience and positive contributions that councillors make to their communities every day.