The Rural Bulletin

Click here to view this week’s

NALC Newsletter

Young councillors network

Local election survey

Local councils receive funding

Making Music

BLOG: LGA Independent Group

Chief Executive’s Bulletin

7 September 2023

Smaller Authorities’ Audit Appointments appoints new chief executive 

I am pleased to report that the Smaller Authorities’ Audit Appointments (SAAA) board has announced the appointment of its new chief executive, Annie Child, to support its development plans over the next few years. Annie will join SAAA this month after nearly 19 years in various local government roles, including the last five years as clerk to Salisbury City Council. I’m delighted with the news and look forward to working closely with her and the board to improve accountability and governance in the smaller authority sector. I am sure you will want to join me in thanking her predecessor, Howard Midworth, for all his work setting up the new company and system.

NALC partners with De Montfort University to conduct a local election survey 

We’ve partnered with the De Montfort University (DMU) Local Governance Research Centre to open a survey for local (parish and town) councils and county associations on the 2023 local elections to understand better and improve the dynamics of local council elections. The research aims to gather insights into the complexities of local elections, ultimately enhancing support mechanisms for their smooth execution and reducing the necessity of co-option. I’d urge local councils and county associations directly involved in the 4 May 2023 elections to complete the survey.

Model Financial Regulations consultation free events  

As part of the consultations to inform an update to our Model Financial Regulations, we will hold two free events next month. Taking place on 2 October 2023 at midday and 12 October 2023 at 6.30 pm. The events will provide an opportunity to speak directly with Steve Parkinson from The Parkinson Partnership LLP, who is working with us to update this essential document for our members. If you want to raise issues outside what is asked in our online survey or prefer a conversation to providing written feedback, then this is your opportunity to engage with this review in a way that works best for you.

NALC National Network: Young councillors 

NALC’s young councillors network met on 31 August 2023. The network proposed appointing co-chairs to help lead, shape and run network meetings. This will be discussed further and finalised at their next meeting, and we will provide further updates when they are available. The network also discussed support for young councillors and the benefit of a simplified guide for new young councillors to help them through their time in office, especially the first few weeks and months. They also agreed to conduct a survey of young councillors which will include getting more feedback on the network and its work over the next few years. We’ll be circulating the survey soon so do keep an eye out! The network will also be trialling an extra meeting in the coming weeks but in the evening rather than at lunchtime, the date is to be confirmed shortly, and the next scheduled meeting is on 8 November 2023. Learn more about the network and how to join!

Finance and Scrutiny Committee

NALC’s Finance and Scrutiny Committee met on 5 September 2023 and welcomed Cllr Mike Scott (Northamptonshire County Association of Local Councils) as a new member. The committee was joined by Stephen Sampson from our auditors Milton Avis to present the audited accounts for the year to 31 March 2023, which were approved subject to some final presentation changes. The Committee also agreed to recommend for further consideration, including by our national assembly and AGM, an increase in affiliation fees for 2024/25 to 7.94 pence per elector, capped at £2037 for larger councils. Other matters noted included the latest management accounts which were on track with budget and councillors also discussed their developing scrutiny role.

Joint Panel on Accountability and Governance 

The Joint Panel on Accountability and Governance (JPAG) met on 4 September 2023 to agree its plans for updating the Practitioners Guide’ for the 2024/25 financial year. The meeting also considered proposals from our partners, the Internal Audit Forum, on changes to guidance to maximise the potential of internal audit to support councils’ governance and transparency. JPAG also considered how it might enhance its capacity to support accountability and governance amongst smaller authorities and has committed to developing a business proposal over the coming months. You can find out more about the work of JPAG on our website.

On the blog: Royal British Legion 

This week’s blog is by Luke Lancaster from the Royal British Legion (RBL), who writes about their recently launched Councillor Network which aims to enhance the support they provide to those who serve in local government. Joining the RBL’s Councillor Network is the best way of staying informed about issues facing the Armed Forces community and all elected representatives from all levels of local government are welcome to sign up! Read the blog to find out more, and email councillornetwork@britishlegion.org.uk to learn more about the network.

Meeting with the Society of Local Council Clerks   

I was pleased to meet with Rob Smith, chief executive of the Society of Local Council Clerks (SLCC), on 5 September 2023 in London, where we also brought together several colleagues from our two organisations. The get-together was an excellent opportunity for colleagues to meet face to face, some for the first time given our locations in London and Taunton, coupled with much of our communication since the pandemic has been conducted online. It was good to catch up on the challenges we face as membership bodies and discuss how we can collaborate more closely to deliver the shared ambitions of our memorandum of understanding. Specific issues covered included our work on climate change, holding joint regional events involving county associations and the SLCC branches, getting input from SLCC on the review of our risk register, and discussing principles to underpin our approach to securing funding for sector support on areas such as audit and Martyn’s Law.

Morecambe Town Council Corporate Peer Challenge report published! 

We, alongside the Local Government Association (LGA), have published Morecambe Town Council’s Corporate Peer Challenge report. The report outlines key recommendations, a summary of the peer challenge approach, feedback, priorities and outcomes, organisational and place leadership, governance and culture, financial planning and management, capacity to improve, and the next steps. The Corporate Peer Challenge is part of our partnership with the LGA and improvement work with local councils. We are also seeking super councils (local councils with an annual precept of over £1m or an annual turnover of over £1.5m) interested in taking part in the Corporate Peer Challenge. To submit your interest, please contact NALC at anders.hanson@nalc.gov.uk.

Fortnightly county officers call

In this week’s meeting between NALC and county officers, we discussed the problem of buildings containing reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC), how this may affect the sector and any queries received by county associations so far. There were also several updates on the work of the Improvement and Development Board and the appointment of its new chair and the recent meetings of the Finance and Scrutiny Committee and JPAG. Following the previous meeting, there was more information on handling some of the requirements banks are making on local councils.

Planning guides survey 

A quick reminder that we’re still collecting feedback on several planning guides. We are working with the Campaign to Protect Rural England to update Planning Explained, How to Respond to Planning Applications, and How to Shape Where You Live: A Guide to Neighbourhood Planning. These guides provide easy-to-use planning advice to our members, networks and the general public. We’re in the early stages of preparing to update all three guides to better reflect the current legislative and cultural climate. To help us, we’d welcome your feedback on the existing guides, so please complete the short survey. If you have any queries or additional comments, please contact the CPRE planning team at planning@cpre.org.uk or NALC at policycomms@nalc.gov.uk.

And finally…  

Our long-term partners, BHIB Council Insurance, have changed their name to Clear Councils Insurance following the merger into their parent company, The Clear Group, with effect from 1 September 2023. Over the past five years, NALC has worked closely with our partners and witnessed first-hand their dedication to the sector. Their proactive engagement with local councils, county associations and stakeholders shows their desire to understand the needs of communities genuinely. Their commitment to the sector and working closely with NALC and county associations will go from strength to strength and can help make a lasting impact on the sector.

GATCOM news bulletin

Click here to read

Planning applications and decisions

NALC Newsletter

NALC launches consultation to update the Model Financial Regulations

NALC announces the latest Local Council Award Scheme results

NALC publishes joint letter on Remembrance events

DEFRA launches £2.5m Coronation Living Heritage Fund

LGA Liberal Democrat Group: Why do parish councils matter?

The Rural Bulletin

Click here to read the bulletin

GATCOM News Bulletin

Click here to read this week’s bulletin

NALC Chief Executive’s Bulletin

NALC launches consultation to update the Model Financial Regulations 

We’re working with The Parkinson Partnership LLP to update the 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. To help us with the update, we’re seeking views on the technical aspects of the regulations, and the responses will inform the revision and content of these regulations. To submit your views, please complete the form by 5 November 2023.

Centre for Ageing Better 

One of our campaigns has been health and wellbeing. We’ve worked closely with the Centre for Ageing Better in recent years to flag up the role and potential of local councils in making ageing better a reality for everyone. Several councillors and councils (including our vice-chair (member services), Cllr Mike Drew’s, Yate Town Council) are working to develop age-friendly communities or become champions. The centre has also participated in our events, and we have actively promoted their work. We agreed this week to explore with our largest councils how they could develop further their participation in this critical area, and I will keep you posted on developments.

Making Music! 

Making Music is the UK’s membership organisation for leisure-time music, with around 3,850 groups representing about 228,000 music makers, many of which operate within local council areas. I met their chief executive, Barbara Eifler, on 23 August 2023 where we agreed there are several issues of mutual interest which we could work on to the benefit of our respective members. These include the Terrorism Bill, how our sector can support music makers, primarily through access to facilities, and how we can encourage some of those musicians to get involved in the work of their local councils. We also agreed to collaborate on some events and promote each other’s work.

Rural Insight Forum

This week’s Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) Rural Insight Forum discussed the current consultation on extending permitted development rights, which seeks views on nature-based solutions, farm efficiency projects and diversification. The meeting provided an opportunity to raise with senior government officials concerns about the proposals’ impact on high streets, loss of democratic control of the planning system and the importance of resourcing planning departments adequately. We will be responding to the consultation through NALC’s Policy Committee. The meeting also provided the opportunity to highlight our recently launched webpage dedicated to planning.

Million Hours Fund

I was pleased to read the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS) press release on 28 August 2023 to highlight the work of Central Swindon North Parish Council, which is “using £6,500 to deliver sport, dance and forestry sessions”. The Million Hours Fund, supported by the National Lottery, is designed to help a range of youth services, offering a variety of positive activities. These grants were for this year’s summer holidays. Stroud Town Council also received £3,600 for helping young people create vibrant street art. Our sector can engage and help young people in many ways, and you can read about other examples and support available on our website.

On the blog: LGA Independent Group  

This week’s blog is written by the Local Government Associations (LGA) Independent Group leader, Cllr Marianne Overton MBE. The blog covers the theme of our fringe event at the LGA Annual Conference on 5 July 2023 on why parish councils matter, where LGA’s political groups joined us to share what they think. She writes about the importance of first-tier authorities due to their ability to provide rapid, locally led responses to national events like COVID-19. Local councils are vital because they can uniquely address the needs of their communities. Read the blog to find out more!

National Network: Women councillors 

Our following national network meeting for women councillors is on 7 September 2023. At the last network meeting, the network appointed two new co-chairs and discussed how to make the network more effective. The next meeting will discuss NALC achieving White Ribbon accreditation, share ideas of how NALC and the network can encourage more local councils to become White Ribbon accredited and create a survey to receive feedback on the network and its work over coming years. Learn more about the network and how to get involved!

And finally… 

“The message is take your litter home or put it in the bin!”. Sound advice and a good soundbite from Malmesbury Town Council mayor and former chief executive of Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA), Gavin Grant, on BBC Breakfast on 29 August 2023, which profiled a local volunteer litter picking scheme clearing up their local community

MSVA E-Bulletin

Click to read the bulletin

Planning applications and decision

 

 

NALC Newsletter

NALC opens governance elections

NALC kicked off its governance elections, inviting its National Assembly members to elect the NALC chair, NALC vice-chairs and committee members.

 

LGBT+ national network survey

NALC’s LGBT+ national network for councillors has launched a survey to help shape the network’s future.

 

MP visits Littleport Town Council

Lucy Frazer MP met with Littleport Town Council to explore ways to improve the area’s youth provision.

 

Blog: LGA Conservative Group

In our latest blog, the LGA Conservative Group discussed the vital role that local councils play in delivering services and supporting communities.

 

Blog: LGA Labour Group

In our latest blog, the Labour Group were asked why parish councils matter and the vital role local councils play in any community.

EGBA

Click here for the latest member’s offer

Chief executive’s bulletin

24 August 2023

NALC governance elections are now open! 

This week on 23 August 2023, we launched our governance elections, inviting National Assembly members to elect the NALC chair, vice-chairs and committee members. The process will take 14 weeks, with the results announced on 29 November 2023. There are opportunities for councillors and clerks who are not members of the National Assembly to get involved too! To encourage participation and representation from all backgrounds, these individuals can stand for direct elections to the Larger Councils Committee and the Smaller Councils Committee. We’ve created a dedicated webpage outlining committee information, election seats and timelines to support the process. We have also partnered with UK Engage to manage online elections to ensure a smooth and streamlined process. This innovative approach will facilitate a more accessible and efficient voting procedure.

Local Council Award Scheme  

We also announced the latest Local Council Award Scheme (LCAS) results on 23 August 2023. Congratulations to the latest local (parish and town) councils to be accredited under the LCAS. LCAS celebrates the best of local councils, helps them develop their potential, and recognises that they are well-run and meet the required standards. The latest councils accredited with the Quality Gold Award are Wen Rural Parish Council and Westerham Town Council. Bletchley & Fenny Stratford Town Council, City of Durham Parish Council, Waddesdon Parish Council, and Whitchurch Town Council were accredited with the Quality Award. And Bingham Town Council, Chalfont St Giles Parish Council, Honiton Town Council, Knaresborough Town Council, Roade Parish Council, and Selby Town Council were accredited with the Foundation Award. Well done to everyone involved. You can learn more about the scheme and how to apply on our website.

National Network: LGBT+ councillors 

On behalf of NALC’s national network for LGBT+ councillors, we launched a survey on 22 August 2023 to help shape the network’s future. The survey aims to gain insight into the experiences of the LGBT+ community from the sector. The survey responses will help co-champions, Cllr Andy Snape (Flitwick Town Council) and Cllr Luke Trevaskis (Morecambe Town Council), improve future meetings, focus on the network’s goals, and boost LGBT+ visibility in the sector. Please complete the survey as soon as possible.

On the blog: LGA Liberal Democrats Group 

This week’s blog is written by the leader of the Local Government Associations (LGA) Liberal Democrats Group, Cllr Joe Harris. The blog covers the theme of our fringe event at the LGA Annual Conference on 5 July 2023 on why parish councils matter, where LGA’s political groups joined us to share what they think. He writes about how local councils play a crucial role in local democracy by serving as the community’s voice and shares six key areas where he believes local councils excel. Read the blog to find out more!

National Network: Young councillors 

Our following national network for young councillors meeting is on 31 August 2023. At the last network meeting, the network discussed how to make it more effective, how to get young people involved in local politics by engaging with local schools, how to ensure young councillors are adequately supported throughout their time in office and supported the idea of a mentoring programme or induction pack for young councillors with tips and advice. Learn more about the network and how to get involved!

Fortnightly county officers call 

In this week’s meeting between NALC and county officers, we discussed some challenges local councils face in obtaining suitable insurance and banking arrangements. NALC highlighted its ongoing work with partners to help advise the insurance and banking sector on the needs of local councils. NALC will be putting together guidance on this topic. There was also a discussion about the sector risk register and how county associations manage risks and business continuity.

Design Code Pathfinder Showcase

We have teamed up with the Society of Local Council Clerks to hold a FREE online event about the Design Code Pathfinder Programme on 20 September 2023. You will hear from the government’s new Office for Place to hear more about the programme and the work local authorities and neighbourhood planning group partners have undertaken to deliver more healthy, beautiful, and sustainable places. Design Codes have come to the fore, especially following the publication of the National Planning Policy Framework in 2021, highlighting their role by local planning authorities, developers and communities. This includes local councils, which many expect to be at the forefront of their development. The event is for councillors and clerks, and if you’re a clerk, you will claim 1 CPD point for attending this webinar!

Local MP meets with Littleport Town Council to discuss youth provisions 

Lucy Frazer MP, MP for South East Cambridgeshire, met with Littleport Town Council to explore ways of improving youth provision across the area. She visited Littleport Youth and Community Centre on 4 August 2023, where she spoke to council representatives about their work to engage the youth in the area. They also discussed ideas for expanding provisions to more young people who are currently short of access to services. It’s great to see MPs visit local councils across England. I’d urge councils to contact their local MP to organise a visit to share information about all the fantastic work councils do for their communities.

And finally… 

On 22 August 2023, the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) launched the Coronation Living Heritage Fund for applications. The fund will support local tree-planting projects across communities to celebrate the King’s Coronation. Applications are welcome from district, borough, city, and county councils, unitary authorities, and metropolitan boroughs. Parish, community and town councils and community groups should apply through the above’s tree officers or environmental team. The application window will be open until 26 September 2023. Councils can apply for an amount between £10,000 and £50,000 per option for one or both of the following options; Coronation Micro Woods (enabling councils to plant miniature areas of rapidly establishing woodland in urban areas) and Coronation Community Orchards (enabling councils to provide grants to local people and groups to establish community orchards).

Grow Digital West Sussex

Bookings are now open for free events aimed at helping West Sussex businesses increase efficiency, reduce costs and win customers through digital growth. Read more and book onto a free event

Ticket office closure consultation

Consultation response submitted 28^th August with thanks to those councillors who sent comments and the consultation group of Cllrs Farren, M Belsey, Ody,  Mockford and Whittaker.

GATCOM News Bulletin

Click here to read

Planning applications and decisions

 

Mayor’s Charity Events

Come and join the Mayor at one, two or three of his charity events.

MSVA E-Bulletin

Click to view the MSVA e-bulletin

Chief Executive Bulletin

NALC becomes a White Ribbon Accredited organisation 

I’m delighted to announce that NALC has become a White Ribbon Accredited organisation for our commitment to ending men’s violence against women in the workplace and the local community. And we are the first national body in the local government sector to achieve this! As a White Ribbon Accredited organisation, NALC will be taking forward a three-year action plan of activities to change staff culture, systems and raise awareness within the local (parish and town) council sector. Please learn more about White Ribbon UK and consider making the White Ribbon Promise.

Want to take part in the corporate peer challenge programme?

We are continuing to work with the Local Government Association (LGA) to offer a new round of corporate peer challenges for the largest councils. The corporate peer challenge is part of our improvement work and allows councils to benchmark themselves against similar councils, look at what they do well or could do better, and receive advice from experienced peers from other areas. Corporate peer challenges are open to super councils which are those with an annual precept of over £1m or an annual turnover of over £1.5m. Visit our website to find out how it works, and if you’re interested in participating, please contact NALC at anders.hanson@nalc.gov.uk.

Extra tickets are available for a sold-out event! 

We’ve released extra tickets to our sold-out event on engaging with local communities through digital engagement, which takes place on 27 September 2023. Digital engagement with local communities has become even more crucial in today’s rapidly changing world, especially when delivering community regeneration and neighbourhood development plans. Join us to learn about effective digital engagement strategies that 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. Register your place today and find out more about our other events.

On the blog: LGA Labour Group 

This week’s blog is written by the new chair of LGA and former leader of the LGA Labour Group, Cllr Shaun Davies. The blog is on the same theme as our fringe event at the LGA Annual Conference on 5 July 2023 on why parish councils matter, where all the LGA’s political groups joined us to share what they think. In Shaun’s essay he covers why, as a town councillor himself, parish councils really do matter, stressing the vital role local councils play in any community and that they are central to local activity. Read the blog to find out more!

Latest legal bulletin published 

Our August legal bulletin for county officers was sent out earlier this week. The bulletin features guidance on adverse possession such as maintenance of land by different local authorities, freemen and using gender neutral terms, Sections 15 and 16 of the Local Government Act 1972 and recording of meetings and whether this should happen immediately or when the meeting starts.

Letter to councils on Remembrance parades and services 

NALC, LGA and the Royal British Legion (RBL) have published a joint letter to all councils regarding Remembrance events. The letter, signed by chairs of NALC and LGA, and the director general of RBL, thanks councils for their support and assistance in organising parades and services. It also asks for continued assistance and support to make them cost-effective, highlighting the part RBL branches and volunteers can play. I would be grateful if county associations could help share the letter with councils in their areas. As I know local councils are at the heart of the community and commemorative events, I’m sure you will continue to work with RBL branches and other Armed Forces organisations to enable local people to remember their fallen and look forward to the continued observance of this time-honoured tradition. You can also find out more information about Remembrance on RBL’s website.

And finally… 

Later this year, as part of our Make A Change campaign, we’ll be hosting an online event with the LGA on how you can be the voice of your community by standing for election as a local councillor. The empowering event on 14 November 2023 will discuss the path to becoming a local councillor and positively impacting your local area and society. The event will provide an invaluable opportunity to learn about the vital work and role of councillors from an expert panel. Councillors who have served at various local government levels will share their insights, experiences, and advice about the world of local leadership. Claim your FREE place today!

The Rural Bulletin

Click here to read The Rural Bulletin

GATCOM News Bulletin

Click here to read GATCOM News Bulletin

GATCOM Annual Review

RBL Dinner Dance

See details and how to book if you wish to attend the RBL Dinner Dance

Planning applications and decisions

Chief Executive Bulletin

10 August 2023

A new webpage dedicated to planning 

This week, we created a dedicated webpage on planning to help local (parish and town) councils in their local engagement with the planning system. We have continuously highlighted the crucial work councils do on planning and continue to push the government for increased powers and control over planning matters. The planning webpage has information on local councils’ planning powers, case studies highlighting examples of how local councils have best used the planning system to help their communities, and valuable resources. Please take some time to look at it and share it with your colleagues.

New and updated housing and planning guides 

As part of our drive to support you on housing and planning matters, I’m excited that NALC is currently working with the Campaign to Protect Rural England and English Rural to update existing guides on planning and developing a new guide on housing design. In 2011, NALC worked with CPRE to publish Planning Explained, How to Respond to Planning Applications, and How to Shape Where You Live: A Guide to Neighbourhood Planning. These guides provide easy-to-use planning advice to our members, networks and the general public. All three are well-used and are consistently the most downloaded publications on our websites, with over a quarter of a million downloads! However, since their publication, national policy and legislation have shifted considerably, and we recognise that areas within each document need to be updated and refreshed. We are in the early stages of preparing to update all three guides to better reflect the current legislative and cultural climate. To help us, we’d welcome your feedback on the existing guides, so please complete the short survey. If you have any queries or additional comments, please contact the CPRE planning team at planning@cpre.org.uk or NALC at policycomms@nalc.gov.uk. I’m also pleased NALC has been invited to join the advisory panel for a new good design guide on affordable rural homes, developed by the housing association English Rural and is due to be published in early Spring 2024. One of the principal challenges facing rural housing delivery is local opposition, often rooted in stigma about what homes will look like and their impact on the heritage of the existing settlements. Poor design of some rural developments has mainstreamed this view and can lead to delay or even completely derail proposals for new affordable homes. This project will bring together an advisory panel and utilise the valuable input of artist and architectural expert Matthew Rice to explore, illustrate and showcase good design, how this can be achieved and provide a resource that local communities can hold up as something to be welcomed as an enhancement of their existing built and natural environment. I’ll keep you informed on both projects as they develop.

Committee elections 

NALC is led by councillors appointed by county associations to its National Assembly. The National Assembly elects its committee members, the NALC chair and vice-chairs. The elections are held every two years, with the next round to start on 23 August 2023. There are also opportunities for councillors not on the National Assembly and clerks to stand for the direct elections to the Larger Councils Committee and Smaller Councils Committee. All these elections are managed online by UK Engage, and for the first time, they will be conducted based on the single transferable vote process.

The positions available for elections are:

• NALC chair — one seat for a member of the National Assembly.
• NALC vice-chairs (finance and member services) — two seats for members of the National Assembly.
• Management Board — Six seats for members of the National Assembly.
• Finance and Scrutiny Committee — Five seats for members of the National Assembly.
• Policy Committee — Seven seats for members of the National Assembly.
• Larger Councils Committee — Four seats for members of the National Assembly. Eight directly elected councillors from larger councils, four directly elected non-voting clerks from larger councils and two seats from super councils.
• Smaller Councils Committee — Five seats for members of the National Assembly. Three directly elected clerks and councillors from smaller councils.

Prospective candidates can refer to the NALC member role profiles. More information will be available over the coming weeks to help interested candidates learn about the election process and how to participate effectively. For those not eligible to stand for these elections, please consider getting involved in the work of your county association.

On the blog: LGA Conservative Group 

This week’s blog is written by the former leader of the Local Government Association (LGA) Conservative Group, Cllr Izzi Seccombe OBE. The essay explores what she spoke about during our fringe event at the LGA Annual Conference on 5 July 2023. The essay asks why parish councils matter, and she stresses the critical role that local councils play in delivering services, supporting communities and ensuring that residents’ views are heard. Read the blog to find out more!

Updates to Legal Topic Note 78 on The Equality Act 2010

This week we reissued Legal Topic Note 78 on The Equality Act 2010 to make the note’s content more practical, including links to helpful guidance. The Equality Act 2010 provides legal protection from discrimination in the workplace and in wider society. Local councils with specific equality issues can request legal advice under the NALC legal scheme.

Fortnightly county officers call 

In this week’s meeting on 9 August 2023 between NALC and county officers, we were joined by the Royal British Legion. They ran through some of their work, such as their support services for members of the Armed Forces and veterans, and key events such as Remembrance Sunday, next year’s 80th anniversary of D-Day and Armed Forces Day. There was also a discussion on how branches liaise with local councils and the logistics of local events. They also introduced their new Councillor Network. The meeting also reviewed a recent NALC activity update and information on committee elections.

Community Engagement Fund

The Home Office, on 2 August 2023, launched the Community Engagement Fund (CEF), a £150,000 fund to support grassroots and community groups. The purpose of the fund is to raise awareness of and address any misinformation about the Windrush Compensation Scheme and Windrush Scheme, build on the insights and learning taken from the existing work on Windrush to understand why individuals are not applying for the Windrush Compensation Scheme and the Windrush Scheme, and how to encourage eligible individuals to apply to the schemes mentioned above. Councils are encouraged to share this information with relevant organisations in their local area. To apply, organisations will need to register an interest in the fund using the find a grant portal or by email to CommunityEngagementFundCompetition@homeoffice.gov.uk.

The closing date to submit an application is 30 August 2023 (4 pm). Information sessions will be held for community and grassroots organisations interested in learning more about the fund and how to submit an application. The sessions will be held on 8 August 2023 (2 pm – 3.30 pm) and 10 August 2023 (11 am – 12.30 pm). If your organisation is interested in joining a session, please email the address above.

And finally… 

The Royal British Legion has launched a new network for councillors. Any councillor can sign up and receive regular communication about how councils (both local councils and principal authorities) can support the Armed Forces community and the broader work of the Royal British Legion, ranging from Remembrance to fundraising and membership. You can find out more and join on the Royal British Legion website.

 

More retailers reporting crime in Sussex

by Katy Bourne OBE

This week I spoke with the BBC about the rise in shoplifting offences recorded in the south east. Data released by the Office for National Statistics showed that there has been a rise of up to 42% of shoplifting cases in Sussex.

Whilst a higher number of cases may seem as if more crimes are being committed, the figures will also reflect increased confidence in reporting of crimes by retailers in Sussex.

We know retailers work in extremely fast-paced environments and we know many of them don’t always have the time to report, or access to equipment allowing them to gather information or intelligence needed by police to further pursue offenders.

Understanding these frustrations, we have worked closely with the Co-op, piloting our ‘One Touch Reporting’ tool in 24 of their stores in Sussex. This gives staff the ability to reduce their crime reporting time from over 30 minutes per offence, to just two minutes – and do so with a click of a button.

This intuitive system is helping the Co-op to transform the way they report crime, making it quicker and easier for staff and providing Sussex Police with additional information about criminals. We have also introduced DISC – an information and intelligence sharing app which is now being used by many retailers across Sussex.

Sussex Police can attribute many arrests to the use of One Touch Reporting and the rise in numbers is evidence that some retailers are able to report crimes more easily.

Last week I joined Sussex’s Tactical Firearms Unit (TFU) on one of their training days to see the skills and expertise needed in the challenging role.

Firearms officers often respond to high-risk incidents where intelligence has suggested firearms support may be required. They also provide public reassurance at events and airports and have specialist paramedic training that can save lives.

Sussex has over 150 authorised firearms officers who complete a minimum of 118 hours refresher training each year.

It was a fascinating day to learn even more about the TFU and visit the training facilities we have in Sussex, which are regarded as some of the best in the country.

British police firearms officers are admired the world over for their levels of training and tactical knowledge. Although there are many thousands of police firearms operations every year officers very rarely discharge their weapons. Figures for forces across England and Wales for the past year show that there were over 18,000 firearms operations and only 10 incidents where shots were fired.

Cheap and free bus travel across West Sussex – Bus it! Special Edition

Welcome to our special edition eNewsletter, with all you need to know about travelling by bus in West Sussex.

So if you want to

• give buses a try
• discover new routes
• reduce travel costs
• enjoy the park without the parking
• catch up with friends for coffee in town
• visit the West Sussex coast or countryside

– then Bus it! and hop aboard for cheap or free travel!

Introducing “Book-a-Bus” – your new flexible friend

Getting around parts of the county has become even easier with the introduction of “Book-a-Bus”, a new flexible, on-demand bus service that has launched in the Chichester and Petworth areas.

Our first on-demand services are available on the “99” and “99 Flex” (Petworth – Chichester) operated by Compass Travel, and the “98 Flex” (north of Petworth zone), operated by CT Sussex. They serve the more rural areas of the county that currently have limited or no traditional bus services.

Funded by central government, as part of its Bus Service Improvement Plan, the new services operate within set zones and offer passenger pick-up in a location closer to them – all for the same price as a standard bus fare, currently capped at £2 per trip until 31 October 2023.

What are the latest offers and discounts?

• The government has extended the bus cap fare of £2 until 31 October 2023. After this, the bus fare cap will change to £2.50 for single tickets until 30 November 2024.
• If you are a permanent West Sussex resident who has reached state pension age, you can get a free five-year bus pass for travelling off-peak all over England. This means you can catch a bus to anywhere in the county – and beyond, weekdays between 9.30am and 11pm and all day on weekends and bank holidays, free of charge!
• The county council provides a free bus pass to people who are disabled, incapacitated, or medically unfit to drive.
• Discover other discounts and offers from local bus companies on the link below.

Mid Sussex District Council Summer of fun

This summer Mid Sussex District Council has been hosting several free events aimed at children and young people.

The popular Play Day events kicked off on July 25 and there are still four events to get involved with. Aimed at children under 10, the Play Days offer activities such as puppet shows, rugby sessions, circus skills, henna tattoos, DJ workshops and much more.

The Skate Fest events are aimed at young people aged 10+ offering a chance to learn new skateboard skills, get their wheels checked, and get involved with DJ workshops.

Councillors from Mid Sussex District Council have been visiting the events that are running across the district. Councillor Alison Bennett, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Communities and Communications, said: “The events really are fantastic. Our local providers are doing a brilliant job offering engaging, fun activities for children and their families, and there is a great atmosphere. There are still five events left in our summer of fun, so don’t miss out!”

The upcoming events are taking place on:

• 15 August – Haven Rec, Crawley Down – 1pm to 3pm (Play Day)
• 17 August – Mount Noddy, East Grinstead – 1pm to 3pm (Play Day)
• 22 August – Humphreys Field, Copthorne – 1pm to 3pm (Play Day)
• 24 August – John Pears Field, Ashurst Wood – 1pm to 3pm (Play Day)
• 25 August – King George’s Field, East Grinstead – 2pm to 4.30pm (Skate Fest)

Local organisations are providing many of the workshops and the events are supported by Burgess Hill, Haywards Heath, and East Grinstead Town Councils, as well as the six local Parish Councils.

Mid Sussex District Council is asking people to walk, cycle to or use public transport where possible as some venues have limited parking available.

For further information about what’s on offer at each event, please visit the Mid Sussex District Council website: www.midsussex.gov.uk/playdays.

Planning applications and decisions

 

Sussex music festival director says no to spiking – From Katy Bourne OBE

This week a national partnership agreement was signed which will see all police forces across England and Wales take a new approach to dealing with mental health incidents. The new proposal will ensure that the appropriate partner agencies, not the police, are the first point of call to any health-related situations that involve no safety risk or crime.

The ‘Right Care Right Person’ approach was first initiated by Humberside Police and a toolkit for all police forces has now been developed by the National Police Chiefs’ Council and the College of Policing, who have worked closely with partners in health & social care on the national partnership agreement.

It means that people in need of help will receive specialist and specific support and it could also save up to one million police officer hours nationally each year.

When it comes to mental health and wellbeing, it is important that, particularly in a time of crisis, people have access to the right care from the right person and, whilst police officers will always assiduously uphold their duties to serve and protect the public, we know they are not always the best placed in many health-related situations.

I look forward to discussing what the approach will look like for Sussex in one of my upcoming Performance & Accountability Meetings with Chief Constable Shiner.

This weekend, Sussex’s leading rock and metal festival, Hammerdown, will be taking place in Worthing. Earlier in the week, the festival’s director Harry White told my team about his experience of being spiked when he was just 17, describing it as “extremely disorientating”.

In a bid to prevent this happening at his own events, Harry will be offering the anti-spiking drink covers, known as StopTopps, to any guests who may want to use them. As part of my work tackling violence against women and girls and improving safety within the night-time economy, I have been able to fund thousands of StopTopps which have been provided, free of charge, to promoters, venues, bars, clubs and events across our county.

Spiking is no joke, it’s an offence and it can be very dangerous – you can read more about Harry’s experience and the festival on my website.

On Monday, I visited Crawley’s Manor Royal Business District. Manor Royal is home to over 600 businesses, has generated 30,000 jobs and also has the UK’s largest Business Improve District (BID).

On behalf of the Manor Royal BID, I was successful in securing monies from the Government’s Safer Streets 4 funding round. The BID has worked hard to put in multiple safety and prevention tools such as free security radios for retailers and a dedicated Business Ranger Security team – however, the funding they requested from me was specifically for an upgrade to their CCTV and Automatic Number Plate Recognition system.

I’m delighted to have been able to award funding for improvements to their technology systems, which includes a re-deployable camera that can be moved around the business district to tackle certain issues such as fly-tipping and anti-social driving. The advances and improvements to the cameras will help the BID to work even more closely with Sussex Police, allowing them to share information, deter criminals and further protect businesses.

We know retail crime can have long-term consequences on business owners, employees and surrounding communities. Whether it’s retail stores on our high streets or industrial zones in our town centres, it’s vital we protect our county’s businesses and ensure the residents of Sussex feel safe when they’re at work.

Chief Executive’s Bulletin

Demystifying the role of local councillors online event 

The latest online event on demystifying the role of local councillors took place on 26 July 2023. It was great to see so many attendees at the event, which explored more on a local councillor’s role and the crucial skillset they require. The panel featured Cllr Michaella Biscomb, vice chair of Kippax Parish Council, the former Local Government Association chair Cllr James Jamieson, and Cllr Jeremy Richardson, from Cold Norton Parish Council, who all spoke about their experiences as a councillor while highlighting that councillors should have a passion for making their town and community better and how key characteristics, such as confidence, curiosity, and a willingness to learn, will enable individuals to do this role successfully. We also have plenty of other events throughout the year, so please check out our website to learn more about them.

Climate emergency network 

NALC’s national network on climate emergency met on 27 July 2023, which has now over 300 members! Congratulations to Cllr Tony Aslam of Wellingborough Town Council and Cllr Sarah Barker of Kingshill Parish Council who were appointed as the two new co-chairs. The network was also joined by Dr Daphne Du Cros (Shropshire Good Food Partnership), who spoke about the Right to Grow initiative she has been involved in with Bishop’s Castle Town Council, Andrew Maliphant (The Community Works) talked about the draft planning application and climate action guidance for smaller councils, and Cllr Katharine Keats-Rohan spoke about Heritage Declares, a group of heritage practitioners who have come together to urge the sector to react more quickly and effectively to the climate and ecological emergency. You can learn more about this and our other networks and how to get involved on our website.

Star Council Awards 2023 

Last week the nomination period for our Star Council Awards 2023 ended! The awards help recognise the achievements of the local (parish and town) council sector and showcase the hidden heroes of our communities. It was another successful year for nominations, with the quality extremely high and varied. We received 158 across the five categories, beating last year’s 145. The nominations will be taken to our judging panels in the coming months for further scrutiny. After that, we’ll reveal the finalists, with the winners being announced at a ceremony in the House of Lords on 29 November 2023.

Local Council Award Scheme member briefing 

This week on 1 August 2023, we held a briefing on the Local Council Awards Scheme hosted by our member services team. It was part of the current recruitment process for new panel members who are essential in assessing the scheme’s applications. The role is voluntary, and attendance at the briefing was good, with a mixture of councillors and clerks from around the country. The team were also joined by current panel member and last year’s Star Council Awards Clerk of the Year winner, Terry Philpott, town clerk for Ware Town Council, who gave some valuable tips and insights from his own experiences as an assessor.

Welsh National Training Advisory Group 

NALC’s member service manager Anders Hanson attended a quarterly meeting of the Welsh National Training Advisory Group (NTAG). The group is convened by One Voice Wales. It brings together the Society of Local Council Clerks, the Welsh Local Government Association and the Welsh Government to discuss the development of training for community councils in Wales. NALC has a role in providing legal support and guidance for One Voice Wales. The discussion included the recruitment and retention of clerks, a training needs survey, and the development of webinars on finance and governance and cyber training.

On the blog: Hope for the Future 

This week’s blog by Hope for the Future discusses the importance of young people taking action on climate change for International Youth Day. The United Nations theme for International Youth Day 2023 is Green Skills for Youth: Towards A Sustainable World, highlighting the need for technical skills and knowledge to support a transition to a greener world. Local government is crucial in providing education and training for green skills, like retrofitting, to achieve a sustainable future. You can find more information on climate change and young people on our website.

Fortnightly county officers call 

At last week’s meeting on 26 July 2023 between NALC and county officers, the Civility and Respect Project manager, Hazel Broatch, spoke about the ideas that emerged from the intervention workshop. County officers gave feedback on the ideas split into quick wins, longer-term and blue skies ideas. There was also a discussion on a draft briefing on email addresses and domain names and an update on recent committee meetings.

Neighbourhood Planning Support Programme

Last week, on 25 July 2023, some great news was that the government committed an additional £7.1 million to the Neighbourhood Planning Support Programme. The programme, run by the Department of Levelling Up, Housing & Communities (DLHUC), aims to support groups developing neighbourhood plans and neighbourhood development orders. The further funding brings the total funding to the programme to over £47 million since 2018, allowing the scheme to continue for a sixth year. Applications for support are now open for this financial year (2023/24).

Community Ownership Fund  

As previously reported, the government opened its £150m Community Ownership Fund to applications from local councils. This week on 31 July 2023, DLUHC updated the Community Ownership Fund prospectus to reflect the extension of the maximum capital funding available to new applicants from round three, window two onwards. Applicants are now able to apply for up to £2 million in capital funding. I’d encourage councils to consider whether applying to this fund may suit you.

80th anniversary of D-Day 

We’re honoured to support the 80th anniversary to commemorate D-Day on 6 June 2024. It marks when Allied forces mounted the largest amphibious invasion the world has ever witnessed that would bring about the liberation of north-west Europe from Nazi occupation. Local councils have always performed a lead role in commemorative and celebration events, such as the late Queen Elizabeth’s Platinum Jubilee Beacons, which is why we support this initiative. I urge all councils to support this event. We are working with Pageantmaster Bruno Peek, who leads these historical celebrations and will provide more information in the coming months.

And finally… 

Another landmark for the Civility and Respect Pledge, with over 1,300 local councils taking the pledge to demonstrate that they are committed to standing up to bullying, harassment and intimidation. If you still need to sign the pledge, consider it today! More information is available on our website on the pledge but also on the entire Civility and Respect Project.

NALC submits written evidence on Martyn’s Law

The National Association of Local Councils (NALC) has submitted written evidence to the Home Affairs Committee, which is undertaking pre-legislative scrutiny of the Draft Terrorism (Prevention of Premises) Bill.

In the evidence, NALC has supported the government’s aim of making the public safer at publicly accessible locations and security measures but stressed that interventions should be reasonable, affordable, and proportionate. While NALC is keen to work with the government on the Bill, it is concerned about the lack of engagement with the local council sector. NALC also highlighted the impact the legislation would have on councils as organisers of events covered by the duty, the lack of an impact assessment including costs, concerns about the capacity thresholds being used and the need for proportionality, especially of risk, lack of clarity on the regulator and enforcement, the need for a communications campaign and dedicated programme of support and guidance, and an extensive lead in time to allow councils to prepare.

NALC concerns are included in the Home Affairs Committee’s response published on 27 July 2023. The committee has warned the draft bill fails to address the real risk of terror attacks and that small venues face implementing costly measures while larger venues fall out of scope. It calls for the legislation to be introduced in stages (with larger venues first), further research to assess the threat to small organisations and venues, adequate funding to be in place, a communications campaign and comprehensive proposals for the regulator.

The Bill sets out requirements that venues and organisations must meet to ensure public safety. The proposed legislation is known as Martyn’s Law in tribute to Martyn Hett, who was killed alongside 21 others in the Manchester Arena terrorist attack in 2017 and whose mother, Figen Murray, has since campaigned for greater security at venues.

Demystify the role of local councillors

The National Association of Local Councils (NALC) held an online event about demystifying the role of local councillors on 26 July 2023, which looked at a local councillor’s role and the crucial skillset they require.

The expert panel featured Cllr Michaella Biscomb, vice chair of Kippax Parish Council, the former Local Government Association chair Cllr James Jamieson, and Cllr Jeremy Richardson, from Cold Norton Parish Council, who all spoke about their experiences as a councillor while highlighting that councillors should have a passion for making their town and community better and how key characteristics, such as confidence, curiosity, and a willingness to learn, will enable individuals to do this role successfully.

Cllr Michaella emphasised that councillors need four skills: confidence and curiosity, willingness to learn, energy and enthusiasm to get involved, and knowing when to bite your tongue. She stated, “As a councillor, it is essential to have the skill of confidence and curiosity to not always rely on people who have been councillors for a long time telling you this is how procedures and process have always been done”.

Cllr Richardson stressed the importance of building a team with fellow councillors and the local community. He said, “At the village level, the most important team you can build is with the residents”.

Cllr Jamieson spoke about returning to basics, stating, “No matter what type of councillor you are, the job’s core is the same. It is about improving your place. It is about working with people to improve your town and community”.

Find out more about NALC online events

White ribbon accreditation

The National Association of Local Councils (NALC) has moved closer to becoming White Ribbon accredited after its steering group met on 25 July 2023.

The group approved the three-year action to implement between 2023 and 2026. The action plan includes various activities, timescales, target dates and how it will be evidenced. NALC will now submit its application and work towards completing the action plan.

At the meeting, Cllr Kay Wesley, White Ribbon Champion and deputy town mayor of Congleton Town Council shared what her council is doing to encourage people to take the White Ribbon promise with the success of a White Ribbon stall at Congleton Pride on 22 July 2023.

With rapid progress over the last few months, the group agreed to move meetings bi-monthly. NALC will continue to provide regular updates when they become available.

Find out more about White Ribbon UK

Climate Emergency Network

The National Association of Local Councils (NALC) national network on climate emergency appointed new co-chairs at its meeting on 27 July 2023.

Cllr Tony Aslam of Wellingborough Town Council (Northamptonshire) and Cllr Sarah Barker of Kingshill Parish Council (Kent) were appointed as network co-chairs from January 2024. While Cllr Chris Church of Botley & North Hinksey Parish Council (Oxford), Cllr Katharine Keats-Rohan of Wallingford Town Council (Oxford) and Charmaine Keatley, chief executive officer of the Kent Association of Local Councils also agreed to monitor communications between network members.

The network was joined by Dr Daphne Du Cros, director and coordinator for the Shropshire Good Food Partnership, to discuss the Right to Grow initiative she has been involved in with Bishop’s Castle Town Council. Andrew Maliphant, project manager for The Community Works, addressed the draft planning application and climate action guidance for smaller councils, where members commented it could do with a section on retrofitting heritage buildings. Cllr Keats-Rohan spoke about Heritage Declares, a group of heritage practitioners who have come together to urge the sector to react more quickly and effectively to the climate and ecological emergency.

Find out more about the climate emergency network and how to get involved

Planning applications and decisions