Statement from Cllr Paul Marshall

Leader of West Sussex County Council, on the civil unrest seen across the country

“I am sure that we are all shocked and appalled by the scenes we have witnessed across the country of rioting and civil unrest, scenes that will upset all of us who don’t understand the thinking of those who are organising and undertaking these events.

“I know that we live in a tolerant society, one which accepts all no matter what race, religion, or sexuality they are, and I am proud of the role West Sussex County Council plays in ensuring all of our communities can feel safe and secure no matter whether they were born in this country or have chosen our county or country to settle in. The council does not and will not tolerate discrimination in any way, shape or form and continues to work with our partners including the police and Government to ensure this happens. Hate has no place in a modern society; tolerance does, and this is what we, as a council, promote and will continue to do so.

“I condemn all of those who have taken part in the civil unrest and state that it has no place in West Sussex or anywhere in the country and support Sussex Police in all it is doing to ensure our residents, communities and businesses do not suffer from the minority who set out to disrupt our lives through their actions.

“They will not win their argument, because their argument is against all we value.”

For further information please contact the news desk on 0330 222 8090 or email pressoffice@westsussex.gov.uk.

For urgent out-of-hours enquiries please call 07767 098415

Sussex Police statement on recent criminal disorder across the country

We are aware of growing public concern following the recent criminal disorder seen across the country. Protecting the public is our priority and Sussex Police is mobilised and fully prepared to respond swiftly and effectively to any incidents.

This includes an ongoing, visual presence within our communities for reassurance, alongside robust, well-rehearsed plans to allow us to respond to local incidents.

There are unverified reports circulating online about potential activity across Sussex.

We are constantly reviewing information and working with partners to identify any emerging concerns, and will keep local communities updated with known facts.

The public are urged to challenge what they see online, report where appropriate and consider the source of the information.

Follow updates in local news or Sussex Police social media channels for the very latest updates

Assistant Chief Constable Paul Court said: “We recognise that recent events across the country have left our communities feeling unsafe, particularly people of colour and our Muslim communities.

“Please be reassured that racist, criminal behaviour will not be tolerated and we are working hard to keep you safe and ensure anyone involved in criminal disorder is held to account.

“To those thinking about taking part in disorder, be in no doubt that we will make you regret your actions. We will use all powers at our disposal to make sure you are held to account for your actions.

“Our neighbourhood officers are out and about, actively engaging with our local communities – please do speak to them directly if you have any concerns.

“We are asking residents to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity or concerns to us immediately online, via 101 or by calling 999 in an emergency, quoting Operation Skylark.”

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I am delighted to share with you this week’s edition of our Rural Bulletin, packed with important updates and insights that reflect our ongoing commitment to addressing the needs of our rural communities. Last week, we hosted two significant RMTG Sounding Board meetings, each focusing on different but equally vital segments of our rural population. The first meeting focused on the older members of our rural communities. This meeting was particularly poignant as it addressed the potential impact of proposed changes to the Winter Fuel Allowance – a critical issue that could severely affect rural pensioners.  You can read more about this here. The second meeting turned our attention to the unique challenges faced by young people in our rural areas, providing a platform for discussion on how we can better support their aspirations and opportunities. With representatives from councils across the country, these discussions underscored the urgent need for policies that protect the most vulnerable in our rural areas. Looking ahead, we are excited to spotlight two of our esteemed speakers for the upcoming National Rural Conference 2024. With over 960 delegates booked on already, we are confident that this year’s conference will be an invaluable experience for all participants. Lastly, I want to remind members that I will be on the judging panel for this year’s NALC Star Awards. These awards are a fantastic opportunity to recognise and celebrate the incredible work of local councils, councillors, clerks, and county associations across England. The dedication and impact of these individuals and organisations play a vital role in strengthening our rural communities. Don’t forget, the nomination period ends on 6 September 2024, so make sure to submit your entries HERE soon. Concerns Mount Over Proposed Changes to Winter Fuel Allowance The proposed changes to the Winter Fuel Allowance (WFA), recently announced by the Chancellor, have sparked widespread concern, particularly among organisations dedicated to supporting older adults. The changes would see the allowance means-tested, limiting it to those already receiving Pension Credit. This has drawn strong criticism from various quarters, including Age UK, which warns of the severe impact on the well-being of millions of pensioners across the UK. Read more

NALC Newsletter

NALC’s historic pride presence

NALC featured in the Rural Services Network’s Rural Services Partnership Spotlight for its first-ever Pride presence at Corby Pride 2024.

Online survey on NPPF

Complete the NALC survey to give your thoughts on the government’s proposed reforms to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF).

Extra tickets for planning event

NALC has released extra tickets to its sold-out online event on the future of neighbourhood plans, which takes place on 25 September 2024.

Star Council Awards 2024

Nominations are open for the Star Council Awards 2024, which celebrate the achievements of the local council sector — submit a nomination today!

Engagement with government

NALC is actively engaging with the new government, responding to consultations and initiatives on behalf of its members.

Lavant Parish Council

Chichester MP met with councillors from Lavant Parish Council to address pressing concerns affecting the village and its surrounding areas.

Precept analysis

NALC published its annual analysis of council tax levels of local precepting authorities for the 2024/25 financial year.

Blog: CloudyIT

This week’s blog from CloudyIT highlights their dedication to championing community heroes by sponsoring the Clerk of the Year category.

Chief executive’s bulletin

15 August 2024

Audit Matters

As a founding body of Smaller Authorities’ Audit Appointment (SAAA), NALC has welcomed the publication of its first annual report setting out a clear mission to provide an effective and sustainable audit regime enabling communities to hold their local (town and parish) councils to account. The report includes a straightforward strategic plan. The strategic plan emphasises market development, supporting practitioners and improving limited assurance review.

NALC has also welcomed the Government’s recent announcement on the local audit backlog in principal councils. The announcement addresses the backlog of unaudited principal authority accounts and aims to put local audit on a sustainable footing. This will be an opportunity for NALC to press for several improvements, including working with SAAA to urge the Government to act on the £6.5m threshold, which triggers our largest councils into a much more costly and onerous regime.

On the blog: International Youth Day

This week’s blog emphasises the importance of empowering young people to build sustainable and prosperous communities. On International Youth Day (12 August 2024) and throughout the year, NALC advocates for creating opportunities that nurture the potential of young leaders through the young councillor national network, Star Council Awards Young Councillor category, and social media campaigns. The blog highlights the need for local councils to actively engage and support youth initiatives, celebrate their contributions, and provide platforms for their voices to be heard, ultimately fostering a brighter and more inclusive future for all. Read the blog to find out more!

Star Council Awards 2024

Don’t forget to consider nominations to our Star Council Awards 2024! These awards recognise the positive impact of the parish and town council sector on communities across England. We want the awards to be even bigger and better than before. And we want more nominations to provide even more opportunities for all councils, councillors, county associations and clerks to shine. Entrants can apply for six award categories: Council of the Year, Councillor of the Year, Young Councillor of the Year, County Association of the Year, Clerk of the Year, and Climate Response of the Year. These categories recognise excellence in different areas of council operations and highlight the varied contributions of councils. The nomination period ends on 6 September 2024. We’ll announce the winners at our parliamentary reception in the House of Lords on 25 February 2025. I also want to thank our award sponsors, Clear Councils Insurance (formerly BHIB Councils Insurance), Blachere Illumination, CCLA, Cloudy IT, Facilitating the Future, Unity Trust Bank and Utility Aid, whose support is invaluable in making these awards possible.

New Legal Topic Note on basic contract law

As part of transferring content to our new website (launching on 7 October 2024!), our legal team has refreshed Legal Topic Note 35 on basic contract law. The advice considers how contracts are formed, types of contractual obligations, breach of contract and termination, and council powers in respect of contracts. To read the note, please login to our website and visit the LTN section.

Advertise your job with NALC

Are you looking to advertise your job vacancy? Did you know we advertised over 140 jobs for parish and town councils in England over the last financial year? We offer two packages (standard and premium) that use a range of platforms, including our website, social media channels, and e-marketing, to help you share your vacancy. For multiple job listings, we also offer further discounts! You can find out more about how to advertise your job with NALC on our website.

And finally…

Congratulations to Portland and Weymouth on being chosen as Dorset’s joint towns of culture for 2025. The initiative, established by the Arts Development Company, aims to give towns, villages or hamlets in Dorset the opportunity to lead a year of cultural activity and deepen relationships between communities, cultural venues and organisations. As joint winners, Portland and Weymouth will each receive £30,000 from Dorset Council, which will be match funded by Portland and Weymouth Town Councils to support a programme of activities. Currently, Bridport, which has been hosting various performances and visual art, holds the title of Dorset’s town of culture.

Planning applications and decisions