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Newsletter 26/05/23

Posted on by Andrew Taylor

Councillor Training – The PowerPoint Slides

 

Download the PDF file .

Watch East Grinstead’s Coronation Parade

 

Follow this link to watch our very own special Coronation Parade.

 

East Court Live – This June 4th!

 

 

Don’t forget Sunday 4th June 1-5pm is East Court Live. Come along, bring your friends and family, and enjoy the day. If you are available to help with the event in the afternoon please contact Alice Fletcher on a.fletcher@eastgrinstead.gov.uk

 

 

 

Have your say on how safe you feel in Sussex – Sussex Police Update

(Sent by Katy Bourne OBE to all major stakeholders)

 

 

Hello

In my role as PCC, I’m delighted to have been able to secure nearly £35 million for over 53,000 victims of crime to help them cope and recover since 2014. In the last two years alone, I have been awarded more than £4m to fund initiatives focusing on violence reduction and tackling anti-social behaviour (ASB) in Sussex.

The Government has recently offered more funding to tackle ASB and I’d like your help in deciding where best that money can be utilised in Sussex.

To find out how safe you feel in the county and to get your views, I’ve launched a new survey as part of my #TalkSussex campaign. It’s important that I hear what you have to say about the types of crimes you may have experienced, what makes you feel unsafe within your community and what measures could be put in place to help you feel safer?

The survey can be completed anonymously and, as well as the results being used to help inform my future funding decisions, they’ll also be fed back to Sussex Police to let them know whether residents feel safe or not and in which areas.

It only takes a few minutes to complete the survey online.

I will also be asking more about any ASB happening locally and seeking your views for suitable reparative activities for offenders in our Immediate Justice programme so please do keep an eye out for this in your inbox.
Supporting Project Edward
This week, I joined the Sussex Safer Roads Partnership alongside Community Speedwatch and West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service in Horsham at one of their engagement events taking place across the county for the Project EDWARD week of action.

Project EDWARD (which stands for Every Day Without A Road Death) is the UK’s biggest platform showcasing good practice in road safety. Working alongside partners such as the emergency services, highway agencies and British businesses, they promote what is being done around the four nations focusing on safe vehicles; road use; speed; safe roads/roadsides and post-crash care.

At the event, Sussex police officers and road safety partnership members spoke to the public about the five main contributory factors that cause serious road traffic collisions. These are known as the ‘Fatal Five’: careless driving; drink and drug driving; not wearing a seatbelt; using a mobile phone and speeding.

Members of the public also spoke to officers and staff about their own road safety queries including recent updates to the highway code and tyre safety.

You can click the play button on the picture above to watch a short video of the day.

Katy Bourne OBE

Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner

 

 

NALC Newsletter

 

A new event on digital engagement

NALC launched a new online event on engaging with local communities through digital engagement on 27 September 2023.

 

NALC meets the Liberal Democrats

NALC met with Helen Morgan MP, the Liberal Democrat spokesperson for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, and Local Government.

 

NALC meets the Forestry Commission

NALC met with the Forestry Commission‘s chief executive officer Richard Stanford to highlight the role of the local (parish and town) council sector.

 

Blog: BHIB Councils Insurance

In this week’s blog, BHIB Councils Insurance write about identifying subsidence, what to do, and how to reduce the risks.

 

Star Council Awards 2023

Nominations are open for the Star Council Awards 2023, which celebrate the achievements of the local council sector — submit a nomination today!

 

 

 

Chief executive’s bulletin

25 May 2023
NALC’s online event on fighting climate change 

We delivered our online event on fighting climate change with local council action this week. The sold-out event on 24 May 2023 discussed how stakeholders interested in rural sustainability could work with communities and featured case studies from local (parish and town) councils on what they did locally in the fight against climate change. Our expert panel featured Megan Blyth, local and community empowerment project manager at the Centre for Sustainable Energy, who said, “We think that parish and town councils can be a massive force for change”. Culvin Milmer, visitor services manager and business development officer at Swanage Town Council, added, “We need to ensure that Swanage is the most sustainable place it can be as a tourist location”. And Cllr Richard Neale of Draughton Parish Council stated his council “declared a climate emergency in 2021 and voted to help decarbonise the National Grid”. During the extensive Q&A, it was good to hear suggestions for where councils require further support such as leadership and professional advice from principal councils, access to loan capital, gathering data to share with the government on the impact of work by local councils to reduce energy, guidance and help with retrofitting listed buildings, and sharing documents such as climate action plans. I also want to thank Katherine Brown from NALC’s partners, Blachere Illumination, for hosting the event.

A new online event on engaging with local communities through digital engagement

Staying on the theme of events, we’ve launched a new online event on engaging with local communities through digital engagement which will take place on 27 September 2023. With the growing influence of the digital world, it’s more important than ever that local councils make it as easy as possible for people to engage with them and be flexible enough to meet the needs of their communities. This event will teach councils about effective digital engagement strategies and how to use digital tools and platforms to connect with residents. We also have plenty of other events throughout the year, so please check out our website to learn more about them.

Larger Councils Committee   

NALC’s Larger Councils Committee met remotely on 18 May 2023. Here are a few highlights:

  • The committee shared with each other updates on recent local elections in their areas, where they reported an increase in the number of councillors standing down and a decrease in the number of candidates standing for election.
  • The committee agreed to hold its next meeting on 25 July 2023 in person as a workshop to discuss engaging with larger and super councils and NALC members, NALC governance for larger councils, the committee’s work programme and the government’s neighbourhood governance review.
  • NALC’s head of member services, Charlotte Eisenhart, and Steve Parkinson of The Parkinson Partnership spoke about the procurement needs of larger councils and received feedback to inform future work on guidance and training.
  • The government’s recent Anti-Social Behaviour Action Plan was considered and the committee shared examples of their own work to reduce anti-social behaviour such as though removal of graffiti, and delivery of youth services including outreach and provision of CCTV. NALC will be gathering further examples from larger councils and their use of existing powers to inform our engagement with the government.
  • Extending the Dependants’ Carers’ Allowance to local councils has previously been identified as a lobbying priority by the Committee and it welcomed NALC’s lobbying on this issue including seeking to amend the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill. The committee was asked to provide further evidence of how councillors were being affected to be used during the next stage of the Bill.

NALC Smaller Councils Committee   

NALC’s Smaller Councils Committee held its latest online meeting on 23 May 2023, here’s a summary:

  • Congratulations to Cllr Josephine Parish (Corfe Castle Parish Council) who was elected committee chair until December 2023. Cllr Graham Ford (Illlogan Parish Council) was co-opted to the committee for the rest of the year. Elections to all of NALC’s committees and for leadership roles for the next two years of 2024 and 2025 will be taking place towards the end of this year.
  • The committee agreed to engage with county association representatives on our National Assembly who are from smaller councils and invite them to participate in the committee’s work, to set up a network for the smallest councils, and for NALC to promote the committee elections as early as possible.
  • Corrine Curtis from NALC’s partner Worknest joined the meeting to get feedback, from the perspective of smaller councils, on our HR templates and how-to documents.
  • A discussion also took place on the National Agreement on Terms and Pay, which the committee agreed needs review. The committee emphasized the importance of clerks of smaller councils having proper remuneration for all the hours they work. It would issue a statement to emphasize that shortly.

Special meeting of NALC Policy Committee 

The Policy Committee held its second special meeting of the year on 22 May 2023, where Cllr Peter Allison from Wilsden Parish Council in West Yorkshire was elected committee vice-chair until December 2023 – congratulations to Peter! The committee also considered and endorsed a document comprising a business case with data and evidence for use to support our campaign for access to government grant funding. Several areas were identified for minor changes to the document and further ongoing work to support the campaign. I’d like to thank the task and finish group of NALC staff, Peter from the Policy Committee, Andy Reeves from Central Swindon North Parish Council and representatives from the Society of Local Council Clerks (SLCC) and Essex Association of Local Councils, for their invaluable contribution to this important work.

Engaging with the government and the development of the Office for Local Government 

One of our objectives is to be a strong national voice for the sector, which includes raising its profile to the government and other national bodies, so they understand the role and potential of local councils. And seeking legislative and other changes in line with our policy priorities. Among the ways we do this is in parliament and meetings with ministers and civil servants. For example, we are on several government policy forums which bring stakeholders together, such as calls with the Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities and its communities partnership board, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs insight forum and the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero forum. NALC’s chair, Cllr Keith Stevens, also attends ministerial roundtables, so I’m pleased he’s been invited to join other local government leaders to help the development of the new Office for Local Government (OFLG) whose interim chair is Lord Morse. The OFLG is designed to increase transparency, foster accountability and use data to improve local government performance. While principal councils are the current focus for this body – its data themes are social care, waste, finance (reserves) and adult skills – local councils are not in its remit, but having a seat at the table provides an opportunity to help shape the regime to benefit our residents and ensure the sector’s interests are not overlooked.

Digital Democracy and Council Meeting Partnership 

Another forum where NALC is involved alongside other local government stakeholders is the Digital Democracy and Council Meetings Partnership. Originally formed during Covid-19 to address remote meetings, the partnership brings NALC together with the Association of Democratic Services Officers, Lawyers in Local Government, Local Government Association (LGA), SLCC and other representative bodies. NALC’s head of policy and communications, Justin Griggs, and our senior solicitor and legal manager, Jane Moore, were at the latest meeting on 23 May 2023, here’s a few highlights:

  • Updated terms of reference were agreed including the mission statement of supporting the transformation and improvement of local government digital and hybrid democratic functions and lobbying for the flexibility to hold remote council meetings.
  • A discussion on holding future round tables and learning events to support the partnership’s focus on best practice, guidance and case studies.
  • The group provided updates on work to lobby for remote meetings such as LGA’s latest online survey about council meetings and the use of virtual meeting technology (more on NALC’s parallel survey below), a new letter to ministers, contact with Peers on amending the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill and June debate on local government and reinvigorating local democracy, and a private members bill being tabled by an MP.

Please complete our remote meetings online survey! 

I would be grateful if councillors and clerks from our local councils could complete a short online survey about local council meetings and the use of virtual meeting technology. This is being carried out in parallel with LGA’s own survey of principal councils. The results will help NALC’s campaign for legislative change to allow councils the flexibility to use virtual meeting technologies for council meetings, understand how councils might use virtual meeting technologies if they were permitted to do so and assess the potential benefits and challenges of in-person, virtual and hybrid council meetings. The survey should be quick and take around 5 minutes to complete. I would be grateful if you could complete the online form by 8 June 2023, please also only complete the survey once – thank you for your help.

BBC interview on parish polls

On 21 May 2023, BBC Politics South ran a piece on parish polls, which featured NALC chair, Cllr Keith Stevens and Cllr David Robey (Kidlington Parish Council), who both argued that parish polls are an archaic and expensive way of gauging opinion on a local issue. That’s why NALC has been urging the government to introduce rule changes proposed by prime minister Rishi Sunak MP when he was minister for local government that would increase public support needed for a poll, update voting arrangements, tighten the subject of the poll question, but go even further by introducing electronic voting so more people can get involved, as very few people vote in parish polls which have to be held in person only. You can watch the entire interview or read the highlights in our Twitter thread.

New Local — Stronger Things conference 

This week, Cllr Keith Stevens and colleagues from the policy and communications team attended New Local’s Stronger Things conference on 23 May 2023. The conference brings together the boldest and brightest thinkers at the forefront of the community power movement. This year the agenda was geared towards action, propelling a community-led vision for public services into reality. The conference included speakers such as Lisa Nandy MP, shadow secretary of state for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities and MP for Wigan, who said the Labour Party wants to “transfer the power from Whitehall to the people”, Kim Leadbeater MP, MP for Batley and Spen, stated that “bottom up, top down to make democracy work” and “pestering your MPs will help get stuff done”, and Alex Norris MP, shadow minister for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities and MP for Nottingham North, went on to say “we need to put our communities in charge”. The event also provided a great opportunity for us to network with attendees and promote the role of local councils in community power.

Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill 

Local council representation on new urban development corporations and powers to provide financial assistance to places of worship were among the amendments to the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill debated by the House of Lords. On 18 May 2023, Baroness Taylor of Stevenage argued that local councils are often left out of the loop and “their role at the heart of their communities is key to ensuring that there is a voice for local people as developments move forward”. In response, The Rt Hon Earl Howe, deputy leader of the House of Lords, said the government intended to replicate the existing approach of new town development corporations in forthcoming regulations. You can read this session in full on Hansard. And on 24 May 2023, The Bishop of Bristol spoke to her amendment which seeks to clarify the powers of local councils to provide funding to church buildings of all denominations. Resolving the confusion over the law is a long-standing issue which NALC has lobbied on and where our advice is set out in Legal Briefing L01-18. It was good that several Peers spoke in favour of the amendment – which seeks to achieve the same objective as a similar amendment by NALC’s president, Baroness Scott of Needham Market – and referenced both NALC’s parliamentary briefing and legal advice. Given the widespread support on the issue, Peers urged the government to bring forward their own amendment at the next stage of the bill. In her remarks responding to the debate, Baroness Scott of Bybrook, parliamentary under secretary of state for faith and communities, said she does “understand the confusion….we’ve heard their concerns that the law may be ambiguous…and I can assure them…we will consider this issue carefully and reflect on the comments made in the debate”. Again, you can read the session in full on Hansard.

New series of essays on tackling the housing crisis  

Ideas to tackle the housing crisis are in a new essay collection, Home Advantage, published by the think tank Bright Blue. NALC’s head of policy and communications, Justin Griggs, was at the report launch on 17 May 2023. It featured some of the report’s decision-makers and thought leaders who have shared their ideas on addressing the housing situation in four critical areas: security, community, stewardship and conservation. Proposals include local leadership from empowered local government, more emphasis on providing genuinely affordable housing and strengthened powers for communities over community spaces. It was good to hear Nicholas Boys-Smith from Create Streets and chair of the government’s Office for Place at the event commend Chesham Town Council’s approach to creating better, more beautiful, more sustainable development through their neighbourhood plan!

MemberWise Digital Excellence 2023 

Last week, NALC colleagues attended Digital Excellence 2023, organised by the MemberWise Network. The annual conference provides membership and association professionals with the opportunity to hear the latest digital-focused achievements, best practice advice, and tips to optimise the digital side of their organisations. The conference was a valuable resource for colleagues to learn more about maximising digital email engagement, using social media to change perceptions, designing member value propositions, widening member participation, and delivering a digital strategy, as well as vital information to aid the redevelopment of our new website, to name a few. MemberWise is an independent professional network that provides help, advice, and networking opportunities to its circa 8,000+ members association professionals.

Royal Garden Parties  

We submitted the names of approximately 100 representatives from local councils across England to attend the Royal Garden Parties on 3 and 9 May 2023. We received some glowing accounts of their experiences, such as Cllr Jeremy Richardson (Cold Norton Parish Council), who had a wonderful afternoon with his wife and was interviewed by BBC Essex radio last week about the experience, Cllr John Stewart (Bollington Town Council) was amazed at how extensive the gardens were (around 40 acres with a three-acre lake!). He enjoyed the tea in the main tea tent and described the day as “what an experience”, and Cllr Ian Brayshaw (Catterall Parish Council) said he and his wife enjoyed the day. If you attended the Royal Garden Parties, please share your experience with us at nalc@nalc.gov.uk.

Cost-of-living survey by the Rural Services Network 

This week the Rural Services Network (RSN) published the results of its Rural Cost of Living Survey. The survey showed that more than 75% of respondents say their financial situation has worsened over the last year — read the entire report. The RSN is the national champion for rural services, ensuring that people in rural areas have a strong voice.

And finally… 

Keep Britain Tidy has announced the winners of the prestigious Blue Flag and Seaside Awards for summer 2023, and among them are Seagrove Beach and Springvale Beach (Nettlestone and Seaview Parish Council), Sandgate Beach (Sandgate Parish Council), Swanage Central Beach (Swanage Town Council) and Weymouth Beach (Weymouth Town Council). The Blue Flag and Seaside Awards aim to improve the quality of England’s coastline and promote the country’s best beaches. Congratulations to everyone involved!

Planning Application & Decisions

Download the PDF file .

East Grinstead Business Association – Upcoming Events!

 

Please follow this link to see all the upcoming events.

 

 

The Rural Bulletin

 

Please follow this link to read the latest Rural Bulletin. 

 

 

 

Newsletter 19/05/23

Posted on by Andrew Taylor

DISC – Launch In East Grinstead & Burgess Hill

 

 

 

Effective crime-reducing tool launched in Burgess Hill and East Grinstead
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A new information-sharing tool for local businesses has been launched in Burgess Hill & East Grinstead to help police, retailers and security staff tackle crime more effectively together.
The smartphone app, called ‘DISC’, is already used in parts of East Sussex as well as over 550 town and city centres across the UK and was also launched last month in Haywards Heath. Following its success, it has now been rolled out to retailers in Burgess Hill and East Grinstead with more areas in Sussex being offered DISC in the coming months.

The app, funded by Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner (PCC) Katy Bourne is being offered to businesses free of charge. It is a secure, online information-sharing system that allows retailers who are signed up, to share news, information and intelligence, including images and the times offenders were last seen.

The app also allows users to alert one another as well as swiftly report crimes as they happen to the police.

So far, over 100 businesses have signed up to the DISC app in Burgess Hill in their bid to tackle retail crime and anti-social behaviour within the town. Over 75 businesses in East Grinstead are also now members of DISC.

Earlier in the week, PCC Katy Bourne visited Burgess Hill and East Grinstead (alongside police officers, PCSOs, Sussex Police Business Crime Lead Chris Neilson, business owners and local councillors) to hear how retailers such as Superdrug, Wilko’s and McDonald’s are finding the app and how it benefits their businesses.

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Kirsty Pollard, manager of Market Place shopping centre in Burgess Hill told PCC Bourne that DISC is extremely valuable in enabling the community to work together.

She said: “The collaboration tool means being able to defuse problems before they come into store as opposed to picking them up once they’re here and finding out they’ve been happening down the road and round the corner. Burgess Hill will 100% benefit from DISC.”

Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne said: “I’m delighted to see DISC further expanded into Burgess Hill and East Grinstead following a successful launch in Haywards Heath last month. It’s good to see that so many businesses are signing up to the app and coming on board to help tackle retail crime and anti-social behaviour in our high streets.

“The DISC app does not replace the valued police presence within our towns or on our high streets but, the quick communication features and information-sharing ability it provides, will be invaluable to both businesses and Sussex Police.

“Whether it’s theft, abuse against shop workers or anti-social behaviour inside or outside the stores, this is never acceptable and will not be tolerated.”

Cllr Whittaker Chair of the East Grinstead Town Council Public Services Committee said: “This initiative is welcomed by the Town Council and businesses as a tool to help with the fight against retail crime. Retail crime, especially for small businesses does have victims and we hope this app will encourage reporting, resourcing, and stamping it out in our area”.

A Mid Sussex District Council spokesperson said: “This is an excellent tool for local businesses to report incidents of anti-social behaviour and crime in real time and share relevant information securely with Sussex Police and neighbouring businesses.”

 

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Notes to editors

Top photo of Burgess Hill DISC launch includes: 

Jackie Fieldus (Security, Market Place Shopping),  Jo (Sussex Kobudo), Katy Bourne, Sussex Police PCSO Chelsea Greenfield,  Liz Clark (Burgess Hill Town Council), Lance Nuttall (Burgess Hill & District Pubwatch member, The Woolpack Pub and member of Burgess Hill Business Parks Association). Representatives from Waitrose, Wilkos, Costa, WHSmiths and Vodafone. Mandy Cunningham (Mid Sussex District Council), Sgt Anthony Bentham, Sussex Police PCSO Shannon Ward, Sussex Police PC Marvin Lucas, Jamie Baker (Quench Bar & Kitchen, Burgess Hill & District Pubwatch member and Chair of Burgess Hill Business Association). Kirsty Pollard (Centre Manager, Market Place Shopping), Trevor Leggo and Tom Fullard (Chair of Burgess Hill & District Pubwatch and The Top House Pub).

Second photo of East Grinstead DISC launch includes:

Sussex Police Sgt Anthony Bentham, Sussex Police PC Marvin Lucas, Cllr Rex Whittaker (Chair of EGTC Public Services), Graham Russell (Chair of East Grinstead Business Association), Cllr John Dabell, Sussex Police Business Crime Lead Chris Neilson, Cllr Steve Ody, Mandy Cunningham (MSDC), Sussex PCC Katy Bourne, Town Mayor Cllr Adam Peacock and Cllr Julie Mockford

 
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Burgess Hill DISC launch

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Sussex PCC Katy Bourne using DISC app

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East Grinstead DISC launch

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Modality – Open Letter

 

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Newly published decisions – West Sussex County Council

 

You are subscribed to receive decision email alerts on the West Sussex County Council website. The following decisions have been published.

 

Decision-Maker(s) Decision Title View decision details via website
Cabinet Member for Finance and Property (Cllr Jeremy Hunt) Property and Assets: Disposal 24-26 West St, Storrington FP25 22-23 Link
Cabinet Member for Environment and Climate Change (Cllr Deborah Urquhart) West Sussex Minerals and Waste Development Scheme 2023-2026 ECC06 (22/23) Link

 

Funding secured to further develop ground-breaking perpetrator intervention programme

(Sent by Katy Bourne OBE to update all major stakeholders on Sussex Police activity)

 

 

I am delighted to announce that my office has been successful in securing an additional £1.34m funding from the Home Office Domestic Abuse & Stalking Perpetrator Fund to be spent over the next two years.

The funding will be used to continue our first countywide multi-agency stalking and domestic abuse perpetrator programme, helping to tackle some of Sussex’s most prolific and harmful abusers and stalkers in our bid to tackle violence against women and girls.

The ground-breaking programme was established in 2021 following our successful bid for Government funding. It brings together Sussex Police, mental health workers, drug & alcohol specialists as well as offender management caseworkers to uncover and address the reasons why perpetrators commit these crimes.

The aim is to change perpetrators’ behaviours and reduce their re-offending through evidence-based interventions.

Securing this additional funding means that we can continue to spearhead this important specialist programme.

We know that crimes such as domestic abuse and stalking are often complex so it’s vital we build on programmes that successfully change perpetrators’ behaviours whilst carefully supporting their victims.

You can read more about the programme and funding announcement on my website.
More retailers sign up to crime-preventing app
Following a successful launch earlier this year in Haywards Heath, the smartphone app called ‘DISC’ has now been rolled out to retailers in both Burgess Hill and East Grinstead.

DISC is already used in East Sussex as well as over 550 towns and city centres across the UK. It is a secure online information-sharing system which allows retailers to distribute news, information and intelligence to each other and the police in real-time.

I often speak with retailers who tell me that ‘time’ is a big factor in why some crimes in their stores go unreported so I am delighted to continue to fund and support the further expansion of this effective scheme across Sussex.

When I visited Burgess Hill retailers yesterday, they told me that the ability to communicate quickly with local stores about offenders and to report all incidents immediately to police, will be a ‘game-changer’. The use of DISC will also help officers identify offenders and prevent further crimes thus making our high streets safer and more enjoyable places for us all to visit.

Katy Bourne OBE

Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner

Planning Application & Decisions

 

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NALC Events

 

 

Fighting climate change with local council action

24 May 2023 — 12.00 – 13:15

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.

Speakers: Megan Blyth (Centre for Sustainable Energy), Culvin Milmer (Swanage Town Council) and Cllr Richard Neale (Draughton Parish Council)

 

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Demystifying the role of local councillors

26 July 2023 — 12.00 – 13:15

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.

Speakers: Cllr Michaella Biscomb (Kippax Parish Council), Cllr James Jamieson (Local Government Association) and Cllr Jeremy Richardson (Cold Norton Parish Council)

 

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Engaging with local communities through digital engagement

27 September 2023 — 12.00 – 13:15

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.

 

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Empowering young voices in your community

25 October 2023 — 12.00 – 13:15

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.

 

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Making the planning system work for local councils

22 November 2023 — 12.00 – 13:15

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.

 

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Winning strategies for the funding game

15 December 2023 — 12.00 – 13:15

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!

 

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NALC Newsletter

 

NALC holds first White Ribbon meeting

NALC held its first White Ribbon steering group meeting on 15 May 2023 — the group aims to assist NALC’s White Ribbon accreditation process

 

Community Ownership Fund

After NALC’s lobbying, the government confirmed the Community Ownership Fund has been extended to allow applications from local councils.

 

NALC attends report launch

NALC attended Power to Change’s report launch on high streets and community business in Westminster on 10 May 2023.

 

National Network: Climate emergency

The network discussed NALC’s response to the DLUHC consultation on the National Planning Policy Framework.

 

Blog: Rethink Mental Illness

In this week’s blog, Rethink Mental Illness shares the importance of physical activity in the mental health conversation.

 

Star Council Awards 2023

Nominations are open for the Star Council Awards 2023, which celebrate the achievements of the local council sector — submit a nomination today!

 

GATCOM News Bulletin

 

Download the PDF file .

 

The Rural Bulletin – 16 May 2023

 

Please follow this hyperlink to access The Rural Bulletin 

Newsletter 12/05/23

Posted on by Andrew Taylor

Understanding your experiences of NHS health and care in Sussex Survey – Action required

(Sent by NHS SUSSEX INTEGRATED CARE BOARD)

 

 

Understanding your experiences of NHS health and care in Sussex

We would like to hear from local people in Sussex about your views and experiences of the NHS in Sussex as work progresses to improve health and care for the next five years.

 

People across Sussex are being asked to have a say on NHS services and their experiences of local health and care. It comes as we prepare for the 75th anniversary of the NHS on 05 July and a year on from when NHS Sussex and Sussex Health and Care were established.

 

As part of these anniversaries, health and care leaders in Sussex will be publishing a five year action plan that will set out how NHS Sussex is working to improve the lives of local people by supporting them to live healthier for longer, and making sure they have access to the best possible services when they need them. The plan has already been informed by insight and feedback from people and communities across Sussex – and this new survey being launched today will help to further shape the actions needed.

 

You can have your say online – https://yoursaysussexhealthandcare.uk.engagementhq.com/embeds/projects/23934/survey-tools/24206

 

There will also be the opportunity to share your views face to face as teams from NHS Sussex attends community events and forums during May. Please check Let’s Talk about your experiences of NHS health and care in Sussex | Sussex Health and Care Your Say (engagementhq.com) for more details.

 

Please can you share the survey through your networks, forums, community groups, and friends and family.

 

Children’s Services Ofsted Inspection Report Special

(Sent by West Sussex County Council to all key stakeholders)

 

 

Welcome to our Children’s Services Ofsted inspection report special

Today Ofsted have published their inspection of local authority children’s services (ILACS) report following our full inspection back in March.

Ofsted Inspectors have praised West Sussex County Council’s Children’s Services for its ‘relentless approach to improving practice,’ giving the service an overall rating of ‘requires improvement’, with two ‘good’ judgements and two that ‘require improvement to be good’. This rating is up from the last full inspection of Children’s Services back in 2019, when all areas were rated as inadequate.

Inspectors recognised the ‘strong, determined and cohesive leadership team’ who have made significant improvements since 2019.

The key findings from the report were:

  • Most children coming into care make good progress
  • The voice of children and young people is strong and well-considered in decision-making
  • Early Help support is making a positive difference to children’s lives
  • Staff benefit from a wide range of support, and training and development opportunities; and feel valued
  • The implementation of the new Family Safeguarding practice model has been carefully considered with clear plans for the next steps
  • Partnership working is improving, although there is more to do
  • Leaders have been determined to shift the organisational culture and put children first
  • Practice in some teams is variable and more work is needed to ensure all children receive a consistent service
  • The advice and support provided to care leavers aged 21 and over requires improvement
  • Placement choice for children who are looked after requires improvement
  • There needs to be a stronger response to specific children aged 16 and 17 who present as homeless or who are missing from home.
Jacquie Russell, Cabinet Member for children and young people, said: ‘I am delighted that Ofsted has recognised the huge progress we have made over the past four years.

“The outcome of this inspection is testament to the determination and hard work of all our staff across Children’s Services and the county council. We have been relentless in our approach to put children first and drive sustained improvement within our services.

“We know we have more work to do so all our children and young people receive a good level of service. Ofsted have recognised our commitment to make further improvements and these areas are being addressed as part of our new continuous improvement plan and the West Sussex County Council priority to keep people safe from vulnerable situations.”

 

Paul Marshall, Leader of West Sussex County Council, said: “This council has been resolute in its commitment to improving our Children’s Services.

“Over the past four years, we have made significant investment in our services and ensured the political and corporate weaknesses reported in 2019 have been fully addressed. I am pleased Ofsted can see the positive changes both corporately and politically which is acknowledged in their report.

“I would like to thank our members, staff, children, young people and families, partners and our Commissioner John Coughlan for their unwavering support and scrutiny which has supported us to get to this position and will enable our ongoing improvement journey.”

If you would like to read the full report it is available here.

 

 

Op Sceptre Week 15th May – 21st May 2023 / Crimestoppers Campaign

 

Download the PDF file .

 

GATCOM – 27 April 2023 – Key Messages from Meeting

 

The key messages from the last GATCOM meeting held on 27 April 2023 are now available on GATCOM’s website – click here to see. Please feel free to share the key messages with your wider community and other interested parties.

 

 

 

GATCOM News Bulletin

 

Download the PDF file .

 

 

 

NALC Newsletter

 

New guide on employment

NALC has published an updated edition of The Good Councillor’s guide to employment. The guide helps councillors improve their employees’ work.

 

Role of local councillors event

NALC has launched a new online event on demystifying the role of local councillors, taking place on 26 July 2023.

 

The Rural Coalition

NALC attended The Rural Coalition meeting on 26 April 2023. The coalition ensures that the interests of people living in rural areas are not overlooked.

 

Blog: Nash Mills Parish Council

In this week’s blog, Nash Mills Parish Council shares its journey to achieving a Quality Award under the Local Council Award Scheme.

 

Larger Councils Committee

Agenda papers for the Larger Councils Committee meeting on 18 May 2023 are available — read the agenda.

 

Star Council Awards 2023

Nominations are open for the Star Council Awards 2023, which celebrate the achievements of the local council sector — submit a nomination today!

 

 

Chief executive’s bulletin

12 May 2023

A change to my weekly bulletin!

We’re making a change to when we send you my weekly bulletin! Starting on 18 May 2023, we will circulate the bulletin on Thursdays. After carefully considering the data, I can tell you that the peak day and time to share information with you is Thursday at 10 am. With this in mind, we’ve decided to make this change to accommodate your needs better. Around 10,000 recipients currently receive my bulletin, and we want as many of those to read it and be kept up-to-date with the latest NALC news while ensuring you receive it at the most convenient time. We’re always open to feedback, so let us know how this change works for you at communications@nalc.gov.uk.

Community Ownership Fund open to local councils

As many of you know, we have been lobbying the government to extend the Community Ownership Fund’s eligibility to local (parish and town) councils. So, I’m delighted to confirm today that the government has listened, and the fund has now been extended to allow applications from local councils for the first time. The fund is a government programme with £150m over four years run by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities to help communities take ownership of assets at risk of closure across the UK. You can read more in our news story and the government’s statement.

The latest meeting of NALC and SLCC

NALC and the Society of Local Council Clerks (SLCC) have issued a joint statement following the leadership meeting on 27 April 2023 between our chair, Cllr Keith Stevens and the SLCC chair, Adam Keppel-Green. The statement emphasises the importance of joint working and mutual support between organisations at all levels to support the sector. Working well together has delivered much, including progressing the Civility and Respect Project and setting up the Smaller Authorities Audit Appointment. The statement also stresses the importance of encouraging local (parish and town) councils, councillors, and clerks to promote membership in each organisation. I want to urge councillors to support their clerk’s membership of the SLCC and clerks to support their councillor’s membership of NALC and their local county association.

Power to Change report on high streets and community business

A new report on Community-powered high streets by Power to Change makes a case for community business as essential to solving high street decline. Our head of policy and communications, Justin Griggs, was at the report’s launch in Westminster on 10 May 2023, where speakers from Power to Change and the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities gave their reactions to the report and its three recommendations of a National Community-Led High Streets Programme, central and local government creating the conditions for more alternative ownership, and a targeted empty property premium on business rates for long-term vacant properties. If you still need to, remember to check out The Good Councillor’s guide to community business, which we developed with the Plunkett Foundation. It is available to members for free in the member’s area of our website.

National Network: Women councillors

NALC’s National Network: Women councillors met this week on 10 May 2023 for its latest quarterly online meeting. Here are a few highlights:

  • The network discussed campaigns and awareness days it can support and get involved in and have raised awareness for. NALC celebrated International Women’s Day on 8 March 2023 with a group video on YouTube from women councillors. NALC’s Management Board approved seeking White Ribbon accreditation, the first steering group meeting will be held shortly to take this forward. The Jo Cox Foundation has launched the Jo Cox Civility Commission, which aims to find practical recommendations to address the abuse and intimidation of elected representatives and calls for submissions to which network members were encouraged to respond to and submit their experiences and ideas for solutions.
  • Alongside Cllr Sue Baxter, NALC’s vice-president, as the network champion, it was agreed Cllr Kay Wesley and Cllr Lorraine Rappe would become co-champions to help provide support and leadership to the group and its work.
  • As part of a refresh, the network reviewed its priorities and aims and identified issues to focus on, including growing the network, increasing awareness of local councils in schools, guidance on using social media, encouraging more councils to change their standing orders to use a chair instead of chairman, supporting NALC’s campaigns on carer’s allowances and remote meetings, and localising NALC’s Make a Change Campaign to provide more tools to help recruit more women councillors.

The network will next meet on 7 September 2023 — learn more about the network and how to get involved.

On the blog: Rethink Mental Illness

In this week’s blog, Rethink Mental Illness shares the importance of physical activity in the mental health conversation. Mel Islin, a physical activity programme manager, shares resources, tips, and a toolkit to support people affected by mental illness to help them be more active and improve their health. With Mental Health Awareness Week from 15 to 21 May 2023, we’re encouraging local councils to join the conversation and raise awareness in their communities. Visit the Rethink Mental Illness website to find out more about their work.

National Network: Super councils

NALC’s next National Network: Super councils meeting is on 16 May 2023, which brings together the largest local councils with an annual precept of over £1m or an annual turnover of over £1.5m. The network will discuss the needs of super councils, the government’s publication of parish precept levels for the upcoming year, and our campaign on the Dependants’ Carers’ Allowance. To find out more, please email NALC at policycomms@nalc.gov.uk.

WeatherReady Summer 2023

As we head into the summer, people start dreaming of sunny blue skies and planning summer outings and holidays. However, as we saw last year, we all know that summer weather can be as impactful as winter weather and can bring extended periods of heat. As always, at this time of year, the Met Office is running a summer WeatherReady campaign to spread the word about the range of simple actions people can take to minimise the impact of severe weather on them and the knock-on effect on emergency response teams. The campaign brings together and shares expert partner advice content designed to help people understand how to best respond to the weather so they stay safe and make the most of the different seasons. Can I encourage everyone to share this advice to help the UK public enjoy their summer safely.

Age-friendly Communities

Centre for Ageing Better is running a webinar on 18 May 2023 between 10 and 11 am to share the World Health Organisation framework for creating an age-friendly community and how places across the UK have made their communities great places to grow old. You can find out more about the event on the Ageing Better website.

PARISH.UK

Many of you will have heard the recent piece on BBC Radio 4’s You and Yours programme by Shari Vahl, an investigative journalist, about PARISH.UK. On the programme, the head of the National Trading Standards e-crime team said, “We have got some serious concerns around the business, the way it appears to operate, the intent and purpose of the business and the way that its extremely likely that consumers, small businesses, and community groups are going to be misled by the way this website has been set up”. The item also included an excellent contribution from Danny Moody, the county officer at Northamptonshire County Association of Local Councils, who highlighted concerns shared across the sector. Can I reiterate our advice that PARISH.UK is NOT an organisation with links to NALC, the Local Government Association (LGA) and the government. We have previously contacted PARISH.UK and have informed them about our concerns. We have also had feedback from the Cabinet Office that the changes they requested to the website were completed. It is up to individual councils or businesses to decide if they wish to engage with PARISH.UK. You can listen to the entire programme on the BBC website (starting from 29 mins 20 seconds).

And finally…

Last week saw two landmark events, the King’s Coronation and the local elections. Across the country, local councils and their communities celebrated the Coronation. It was a memorable occasion, and your involvement helped make it truly special – thank you. I also want to congratulate those of you who were elected or re-elected last Thursday, commiserations if you were unsuccessful, and huge thanks and good luck to those who stood down. For those of you elected, your hard work, dedication, and commitment to serving the community have paid off, and you should be incredibly proud of your achievement. Being elected to serve on the local council is a great responsibility, and I am confident that you will excel in this role.

Newsletter 05/05/23

Posted on by Andrew Taylor

West Sussex County Council – Special Coronation Edition

 

 

 Celebrate the Coronation in West Sussex

There’s a bumper weekend of festivities ahead as we celebrate the Coronation of His Majesty The King and Her Majesty the Queen Consort.

The Coronation will take place at Westminster Abbey on Saturday with the Archbishop of Canterbury conducting the ceremony, which will include a procession and service.

And with hundreds of events and volunteering opportunities currently listed on the official Coronation website, it looks like West Sussex is going to be celebrating in style!

You can browse through what’s on in your area by entering your address on the official website.

Take a look at our own Coronation webpages via the link below for lots more information about the long weekend of celebrations, which will include more than 185 street parties across the county!

You’ll also find details of our Customer Service Centre opening times over the Bank Holiday weekend.

Photo credit: Hugo Bernand/Buckingham Palace.

Things to do this historic weekend

 

Send us your best snaps!

Our West Sussex Record Office and Screen Archive South East are inviting you to make your own contribution to the county’s archives by sharing your recollections, photos and films of the forthcoming Coronation.

Whether you are enjoying a street party, decorating your house or helping out in your local community, we’d like to have copies of your pictures and videos for future generations to enjoy.

They would also welcome any memorabilia that you may have from past Coronations.

If you have paper or digital records you would like to contribute, contact Jenny Mason at record.office@westsussex.gov.uk,  or if you have vintage films contact Screen Archive South East at screenarchive@brighton.ac.uk.

Image shows Coronation celebrations at Pulborough in 1953.

Coronations past and present – a Record Office blog

Make your own bespoke royal itinerary!

Experience West Sussex has put together a right royal list of ways you can enjoy the county over the Coronation weekend, and beyond.

Visit stately homes, castles, cathedrals, vineyards and gardens and discover the royal links – both past and present – in our county.

Explore local royal connections

Crafts for the Coronation and free seeds

On Saturday (Coronation Day) our libraries are holding royalty themed activities for children.

There will be craft activities including crown making, colour-in bunting and activity sheets, and special Storytime sessions in selected libraries.

In honouring His Majesty King Charles III’s enthusiasm and care for the environment, families can also pick up seed packets when they visit one of our 36 libraries on Coronation Day.

In addition library teams have been delving into their archives and discovered some wonderful past coronation and jubilee material, showing how past events were celebrated in West Sussex.

For example, in 1897 for Queen Victoria’s diamond jubilee,  Walberton villagers celebrated with a sports day. The winner of the ‘throwing the cricket ball’ competition won a biscuit box and the runner up a butter dish.

Pop into your local library to see a selection of the memorabilia.

Celebrate in our libraries

 

If you’re having a street party, take your leftovers home and get creative.

Visit the Love Food Hate Waste website for helpful tips and recipes to use to make the most from the leftovers.

Handy links:

            

 

Newsletter Planning Applications & Decisions

 

Download the PDF file .

 

LCWIP Update

 

Download the PDF file .

 

 

Star Council Awards!

 

Want to be crowned Council of the Year?

Attention all local (parish and town) councils! Are you ready to stand out and raise the bar for your sector? NALC’s Council of the Year award calls for outstanding work in service delivery, service impact, community engagement, partnerships, and collaborative working. It’s your chance to shine!

The winner of this prestigious award will be decided by a public vote, making it a true reflection of your council’s impact on your local community. So why not nominate a council today?

To win, you must demonstrate how you’ve established, maintained, and managed effective relationships with other local authorities and organisations. You’ll also need to show how you’ve ensured effective service delivery to residents, improving the quality and range of local services.

But it’s not just about what you’ve done – it’s about how you’ve engaged with your community and pushed boundaries to exceed expectations. With a 150-word supporting statement required for each criterion, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to showcase your achievements.

Anyone can nominate, including council members and the general public, so don’t hesitate to complete the nomination form today. The deadline is 28 July 2023, so take advantage of this chance to be recognised as the NALC’s Council of the Year.

 

Upcoming Networking Events!

 

Please follow this hyperlink to view the upcoming networking events via EGBA.

 

MSVA Update – Coronation Special

 

Please follow this hyperlink to view the Coronation Special MSVA Newsletter.

 

NALC Newsletter

 

Extra tickets for climate change event

NALC has released extra tickets to its sold-out online event on fighting climate change with local council action, which takes place on 24 May 2023.

 

Permitted development rights

This week, NALC urged the government to refrain from opening the floodgates with permitted development rights.

 

A new board and a new report 

The Smaller Authorities’ Audit Appointments announced its new board and published a report on the results of the auditor’s work in 2021/22.

 

LGBT+ councillors national network

NALC’s LGBT+ councillors national network appointed new co-champions at an online meeting on 24 April 2023.

 

Blog: Farnham Town Council

Former Star Council Awards winner Farnham Town Council explain how it punched above its weight and what it did to be crowned Council of the Year in 2021.

 

 

Chief executive’s bulletin

5 May 2023
A new office, a new era!  

I’m excited to announce that we moved into our new office this week! The Bloomsbury Building in Holborn, London is just a stone’s throw away from our old headquarters in Great Russell Street. We got the keys to our office space in the building on 1 May 2023 and anticipate the transition will be smooth and seamless. There will be no changes to our email addresses or telephone numbers, and our new address is: The Bloomsbury Building, 10 Bloomsbury Way, Holborn, London WC1A 2SL. We look forward to a bigger and brighter future in our new headquarters.

New 2023 edition of The Good Councillor’s guide to employment 

We’ve published the new 2023 edition of The Good Councillor’s guide to employment, which is essential reading for all councillors. I’m pleased to inform you the updates to this popular resource reflect recent employment law and best practice changes. The publication provides advice and information on crucial employment areas for councillors to improve their employees’ work and benefit their communities. With so many local councils holding elections this year, there is an excellent opportunity to support new and returning councillors in their roles by providing them with resources such as this guide and our suite of other Good Councillor’s guides on topics ranging from finance and transparency to cyber security to neighbourhood planning. Member councils can access the guide for FREE on our website, and printed copies can be purchased from your local county association.

Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill  

NALC’s vice president, The Earl of Lytton, gave a speech in this week’s session of the Committee Stage of the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill on the new Infrastructure Levy which is part of the government’s planning reforms. Lord Lytton spoke to an amendment tabled by our president, Baroness Scott of Needham Market, which aims to require local councils to be a specified recipient of the neighbourhood share of the levy, for that share to be 25% or 35% for a local council with a neighbourhood development plan, and to give local councils greater flexibility over how receipts are spent. In response, the minister, Baroness Scott of Bybrook, said the government is committed to empowering communities through the planning system and that local councils mustn’t lose out by introducing the new levy, but that the amendment would represent a significant increase in levy funds compared with the existing system. She went on to say the neighbourhood share should not result in less money being allocated than in the current system, that the government are consulting on what proportion of levy proceeds local councils should expect to receive and that regulations will ensure that local councils have flexibility in how the levy is spent. You can read Lord Lytton’s speech and the entire debate on Hansard or watch the debate again at Parliament.tv.

National Network: Climate emergency 

A review of NALC’s response to the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities’ consultation on the National Planning Policy Framework was among the key issues considered by NALC’s National Network: Climate Emergency on 4 May 2023. The network reflected on the next steps in strengthening neighbourhood plans and the need to consider flash flooding in any local response. Andrew Maliphant, a project manager at The Community Works, provided an update on the government’s place-based approach to net zero. The meeting also suggested that NALC develop a template for terms of reference on climate change to include non-councillors in the discussions, which would help with resourcing and implementing a climate change action plan. The network next meets on 27 July 2023, and you can learn more about the network and how to join on our website.

Fortnightly meeting with county officers 

I was pleased to host this week’s regular meeting on 3 May 2023 between NALC colleagues and county officers which we took as an opportunity to reflect on how the year has gone so far by discussing successes and challenges plus topics for future meetings. We specifically discussed audit fees and internal audits, training facilities and events, how we collectively communicate with councils, and engagement with National Assembly members.

On the blog: Nash Mills Parish Council  

In this week’s blog, Nash Mills Parish Council shares its journey to achieving a Quality Award under the Local Council Award Scheme. The Quality Award demonstrates that a council performs good practice in governance, community engagement and council improvement, going beyond its legal obligations and continuously seeking opportunities to improve and develop. Nikki Bugden, the council’s clerk, provides valuable tips for councils considering applying and shares how her council benefitted from the scheme – do check it out.

Media coverage on NALC’s call for parish poll reform  

Reforming outdated legislation is among the policy objectives in NALC’s manifesto, which is why it was good to see the leading local government magazine, The MJ, run a story this week on our campaign to change the archaic rules governing parish polls. Presently, too few electors can trigger a referendum on a local issue, the cost of which is borne by our local councils, and participation in the poll is very low. When he was local government minister, Rishi Sunak MP committed to introducing new regulations to address our concerns, disappointingly they are still yet to be given parliamentary time. We’ve taken the opportunity to renew our call for this modernisation of the 40-year-old rules and to urge the government to go even further by introducing online voting. If you’ve had a parish poll in the last five years, I’d welcome your help so we can gather examples to support our lobbying, please email us at policycomms@nalc.gov.uk.

New toolkit from the Information Commissioner’s Office  

The Information Commissioner’s Office has launched a new topic in its Freedom of Information (FOI) toolkit to enable public authorities to self-assess how they deal with vexatious requests. The FOI Act includes a provision that does not oblige a public authority to comply with a request for information if it is vexatious. Used correctly, it balances transparency and the protection of resources. The toolkit forms part of a growing suite of resources developed as part of the ICO25 commitment to improving FOI services.

Blachere Illumination’s new summer range  

NALC’s long-term partners, Blachere Illumination, have created a beautiful summer range following the success of their new Eco Responsible Festive ranges, as their clients noted that their social spaces felt empty each year once the Christmas lighting came down. The summer range consists of colourful flowers, foliage, popular butterflies, and other pieces that can use the same infrastructure and don’t require lighting during the summer months. And as the summer range is either biodegradable or recyclable, they help councils meet some of their climate goals.

Coronation weekend 

Communities up and down the country will be celebrating the King’s coronation this weekend. It’s a historic event, with local councils nationwide playing a central role in the celebrations. I’d like to wish you the best of luck (and some good weather!) for everything you have planned to mark this momentous occasion. If you’re using social media to share what you’re doing, please tag NALC!

And finally…  

Very best of luck to all councillors with the local elections this week which included around 6,000 local councils across 34 county association areas! Check out our The Good Councillor’s guide, an essential read for councillors and our online event in July on demystifying the role of local councillors, which are excellent refreshers for new and long-established councillors, introducing the work of local councils and the part councillors play in the first tier of local government which is closest to the people. And for those of you are standing down this week, can I take the opportunity to thank you for your service to your communities.

 

Final Note

Dear all,

East Grinstead Town Council would like to thank all the Councillors we have worked with over the past four years. For those stepping down, thank you for your service to the town. To all those, who are either going for  re-election or will be running for the first time we wish you all the best.

Thank you again,

Harry Quenault

Deputy Town Clerk

Newsletter 28/04/23

Posted on by Andrew Taylor

Response from Modality Partnership

 

Download the PDF file .

 

Coronation Program & Timetable

 

Download the PDF file .

 

 

Register now to take part in our ‘Your water, your say’ virtual meeting

(Sent by South East Water to all major stakeholder)

 

We are currently preparing our detailed plan for 2025 to 2030 and would like to invite you, and your community, to attend our ‘Your water, your say’ virtual meeting, giving you the opportunity to hear about our proposals.

The session will take place on 6 June, between 2pm and 4pm, and will be independently chaired.

At the session, you will have the opportunity to ask myself and other senior directors questions, and let us know what really matters to you and what you would like us to focus on in the future.
Your questions could cover:

  • the service we provide
  • our impact on the environment
  • what will happen to your water bill
  • whatever other topic is important to you

The event will cover our drinking water supply plans across our whole supply area of Kent, Sussex, Surrey Hampshire and Berkshire.

The wastewater, or sewerage, service in our supply area is provided by either Southern Water or Thames Water. Both these companies are holding their own ‘Your water, your say’ sessions, which you can also join to find out more about their plans. Confirmed dates and details for these events are published online here.

How to register

You can register to attend on our website, here
Questions

You’re welcome to put your questions to our panel of experts during the live session. In case you’re unable to attend the event or you’d prefer, CCW (Consumer Council for Water) will raise your question on your behalf.

You can submit your query prior to the meeting to yourwateryoursay@ccwater.org.uk, stating clearly that your question is for South East Water, and whether you’re unable to attend or you’re attending but would prefer CCW to raise it for you.

Questions won’t be shared with us in advance of the meeting.

You can find out more about the meeting from CCW and Ofwat by visiting their websites:

I encourage you to share this invite amongst your networks.

 

South East Water Grant Scheme

(Sent by South East Water to all major stakeholders)

 

 

Spread the word: South East Water’s £50,000 Community Fund is open for applications
We’re inviting you to participate in a special Community Fund we’ve created for charities in the Mid Sussex area. As a valued stakeholder, we would be grateful to you for sharing this information with registered charities you feel may benefit from a £2,000 boost to their finances.

As you may remember, during December we experienced a high level of leaks and bursts in the area caused by the rapid freeze / thaw that took place following the cold weather.

We’ve directly compensated those customers worst affected, but also appreciate the impact this had on the wider community.

Therefore, we’ve set up a £50,000 Community Fund to benefit charities in the area and are now inviting applications.

All we’re asking is that in 100 words (or less) registered charities tell us how a grant of up to £2,000 would benefit them – it’s as simple as that.

The closing date is 5pm on Sunday 14 May.

Applications will be judged by a panel led by Mims Davies MP and include representatives from South East Water.

Successful charities will be notified week commencing 5 June, and invited to a short awards ceremony towards the end of June.

We look forward to receiving applications from charities in your local area.

 

Memory Moments Cafe in East Grinstead

 

Download the PDF file .

 

NALC Events

 

Fighting climate change with local council action

24 May 2023 — 12.00 – 13:15

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.

Speakers: Megan Blyth (Centre for Sustainable Energy), Culvin Milmer (Swanage Town Council) and Cllr Richard Neale (Draughton Parish Council)

 

Buy tickets

 

Study Tour 2023: Newport Pagnell Town Council

27 and 28 June 2023

NALC’s annual study tour is back! This year we will be going to Newport Pagnell Town Council in Buckinghamshire. On this study tour, you will learn more about the council’s devolved leisure services, how it manages its broader portfolio, and the challenges it faces.

This unique opportunity will give insight into why Newport Pagnell is one of England’s most innovative towns. Newport Pagnell boasts the oldest working iron bridge in the country, and several of the town’s hotels and public houses have been founded as coaching inns in past centuries. Today’s Newport Pagnell offers visitors and residents all the amenities of a modern town.

Last few tickets remaining. We recommend booking early to avoid disappointment.

 

Buy tickets

 

Demystifying the role of local councillors

26 July 2023

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.

 

Buy tickets

 

NALC Newsletter

 

NALC attends report launch

NALC attended the Co-operative Party Rural Commission Report launch, which calls for strengthening local (parish and town) councils.

 

Local Council Award Scheme results

NALC has announced the latest Local Council Award Scheme results. LCAS provides a framework to support councils to help reach their full potential.

 

NALC to produce a new app

NALC is working with Cloudy Foundation Enterprise Academy to produce a new app to help manage the Local Council Award Scheme administration.

 

Steering group on employment

The National Employment Strategy Steering Group met on 17 April 2023, which advises NALC’s work supporting local councils to be good employers.

 

Blog: Coxhoe Parish Council

This week’s blog from Coxhoe Parish Council spotlights how they continue to react to the cost-of-living crisis and address local food waste issues.

Planning Applications

 

Download the PDF file .

 

King’s Event 15th June Flyer

 

Download the PDF file .

 

Discover Gatwick Invitation

(Sent by London Gatwick Airport to all Councillor in Sussex Parishes)

 

 

Ahead of the summer we would very much like to reconnect with our community representatives in person and are excited to resume our “Discover Gatwick” programme welcoming you to the airport to learn more about Gatwick’s recovery and business priorities, culminating in an airfield tour.

In line with previous events, we will ensure that the agenda (which we anticipate will run from approximately 9.30am to 2pm with lunch provided) will allow time for questions and discussion as this provides an important opportunity for us to understand the key areas of interest to you.

We are offering the following dates and places will be allocated on a first come basis:

 

  • Wednesday 3rd  May
  • Thursday 1st June
  • Wednesday 14th June

We would be grateful if you would register your interest by emailing community@gatwickairport.com

Newsletter 21/04/23

Posted on by Andrew Taylor

Email Account Deactivation

 

 

I want to remind you that come May 9th, those choosing not to stand in the upcoming election will have their @eastgrinstead.gov.uk email addresses deactivated. Please note that come this date you will no longer be able to access your account under any circumstances. Therefore, any important emails that you wish to keep (bearing in mind our commitment to GDPR*) be saved in another location accessible to you.

For those standing in the upcoming election who were not re-elected, your email will also be deactivated by May 9th. I would recommend all review their inbox and save important emails to other accessible locations.

*GDPR – Emails sent to you on your @eastgrinstead.gov.uk and intended only when in the position of Cllr should not be saved privately. Please do not save any Emails containing personal information including personal email addresses and home addresses. For more information on what you can save, please see https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2018/12/contents/enacted.

Parish Update – Exceptional Highway Demand

 

(Sent by WSCC to all Parish/Town/District/Borough Councils)

 

As you will be aware, following the weather events we have experienced over the last year, we are now tackling a large number of issues on the network.

 

We continue to see exceptionally high numbers of customer reports, in March this was just under 8,000 enquires, this is double what we would normally expect at this time of the year and this trend continues.  In January the number of enquiries exceeded 11,000.

 

The impact on the Highways teams has been significant. The teams are incredibly busy and the volume of work is unrelenting. Current staff vacancies and the significant incidents on the network have also added pressure to the workload.

 

I would like to assure you we are doing all we can to manage the workload; officers are working over-time and we have successfully recruited new staff but they need support and training to become fully operational.

 

Our contractors’ gangs are also working twilight shifts and Saturdays to manage the increased number of jobs.  We are also looking to increase the number of gangs further but as I am sure you will appreciate; this is common to the entire south-east and nationally, sourcing additional  gangs at this time is very difficult.   We have deployed 3 Jet Patchers in the county, so this will help.

 

To enable the Highway Teams  to effectively deal with the volume of safety issues being reported, we have paused non-statutory  activities for a period of 4 weeks as we did in January. We have extended our response times to customers on general enquiries from 10 to 20 days.

 

On this basis, our responses to Parishes and Town Councils are likely to  take much longer.  Of course, if you have urgent issues then these can be escalated. We appreciate your support at this very busy time.

 

A summary of the temporary measures we have put in place is detailed below.

 

 

Temporary  measures ( from April 17th  up to 12th May)

 

  • Extend SLA for customer responses – up to 20 days
  • Pause non-essential licensing activities (e.g., residential Vehicle Crossovers, Standard Forms of Consent for activities like licensing banners or planters).
  • Pause responses to general enquiries, including Community Highway Schemes

 

 

Planning Applications & Decisions

 

Download the PDF file .

 

West Sussex County Council Newsletter

 

Government to send test emergency alert this Sunday

Everyone in the UK will receive a test on their mobile phone of a new Emergency Alerts system on Sunday (23 April).

The test Emergency Alert will be a loud, siren-like sound with a message sent to your mobile phone at 3pm.

The new system will enable people to be contacted via their mobile phone in the event of emergencies where there is a danger to life nearby, such as severe flooding.

Only central government and the emergency services will be able to send them.

You can opt out of receiving them if you are in a vulnerable situation.

Emergency alerts on your phone will not replace local news, radio, television or social media.

To find out more information about this new system, and the test, visit the government’s website on the link below.

More information

 

The Coronation is almost here!

The Coronation of His Majesty The King and Her Majesty The Queen Consort will take place at Westminster Abbey on Saturday 6 May with the Archbishop of Canterbury conducting the ceremony.

And with hundreds of events and volunteering opportunities currently listed on the official Coronation website, it looks like West Sussex is going to be celebrating in style!

You can browse through what’s on in your area by entering your address on the website.

Take a look at our Coronation webpages via the link below for lots more information about the long weekend of celebrations.

More information

 

Tackling food waste

We are teaming up with Sussex-based food rescue charity UKHarvest and waste management company Biffa to run Community Food Hubs.

The Hubs are open to all residents and set out to tackle waste and provide education sessions to help residents learn how to reduce the amount of edible food which ends up in the bin.

With many facing cost-of-living pressures, Community Food Hubs encourage residents to take advantage of ‘surplus food rescue services’ in exchange for a small voluntary donation.

Last year’s pilot programme saw Community Food Hubs established in Bognor Regis, Crawley, and Southwick. Within six months, they prevented over seven tonnes of food going to waste and provided food to almost 3,000 people.

Building on this success, the programme has been extended to include seven community hubs, running once a month across every district and borough until April 2024.

More information

 

Spring booster COVID-19 vaccination

COVID-19 is more serious in older people and those with certain underlying health conditions.

For these reasons, people aged 75 years and over (by 30 June 2023), those in care homes, and people aged five years and over with a weakened immune system, are being offered a spring booster of the COVID-19 vaccine.

To book your booster appointment you can either visit the NHS website, use the NHS app or call 119.

If you haven’t had the first or second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, book now to make sure you get both jabs before the offer ends for many people on 30 June.  You’ll need to wait several weeks between doses.

More information

 

Free life-saving workshops

Our West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service has launched a series of free Biker Down workshops, designed to help make the county’s roads safer.

Currently, nearly a quarter of all people killed and seriously injured on the road are riding a motorcycle – a stark figure as motorcycles only account for around 5% of vehicles on the road.

If you were first on the scene of an accident involving a biker, would you know what to do? If the answer is no, then our courses are for you.

More information

 

Spring safety in the countryside

It’s the time of year when more of us get out and about and enjoy the countryside, so be aware of ticks.

Read tips on how to stay safe from ticks and more information about Lyme Disease, a bacterial infection that can be spread to humans by infected ticks.

Also be aware that contact with farm animals carries a risk of infection. Find more information on how to avoid becoming unwell when you visit a farm.

These three consultations below about possible road and travel improvements are closing very soon – so make sure you have your say:

We also want to hear your views on the flexible bus service 99 between Petworth and Chichester. This survey ends on 9 May.

We’re looking for views from the community on proposed details for amalgamating a junior school and an infant school in Worthing. It’s part of our work with schools in the area to address the issue of declining pupil numbers. Closing date 18 May.

More news

Head to our Newsroom to find all the latest news. Below are some highlights:

 

NALC Newsletter

 

NALC partners with GoCollaborate

NALC has announced a new partnership with GoCollaborate, an innovative digital platform transforming how communities work together.

 

NALC questions in the House of Lords

NALC has received answers to its written questions submitted to the House of Lords.

 

NALC seeks writers for its guides

NALC seeks writers for Good Councillor’s guide series. NALC is looking for an individual to work freelance to lead the update of this guide.

 

Infrastructure Levy call for evidence

NALC has called for evidence on the Infrastructure Levy after the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities issued a consultation.

 

Blog: Policy Committee

This week’s blog is from NALC’s Policy Committee which writes about how co-options can be a positive tool for local councils.

 

Newsletter 14/04/23

Posted on by Andrew Taylor

Mill View Request

 

Mill View are holding a Stall at the Lions May Fair on the 1st May and we will be holding a raffle all proceeds will be donated to the Alzheimer’s society and a children’s charity

We are kindly asking for donations please.

Our plan is to have 2 Hampers one for adults and one for Children.

If you are able to help support us, please do let me know

 

Planning Application & Decisions

 

Download the PDF file .

 

Queen’s Green Canopy West Sussex

 

Download the PDF file .

 

Surveying Ash Trees for Ash Dieback

 

Download the PDF file .

 

Record number of officers join Sussex Police

 

 

(Sent by Katy Bourne OBE to all major stakeholders)

 

Hello

Back in 2019, the Government announced plans to recruit an additional 20,000 police officers across England and Wales by the end of March 2023. A year earlier, I had also promised to recruit an extra 250 officers paid for by residents via an increase in their local tax precept.

On Wednesday, Sussex Police recognised reaching both the Government’s Uplift and my local target at their largest ever attestation which took place at the East Sussex National Hotel.

At the ceremony, 107 new police officers pledged, in front of their families, loved ones, the Chief Constable, senior officers and staff, a local magistrate and both newly-appointed High Sheriffs, to serve with fairness, integrity, diligence and impartiality in their roles as Police Constables and Detective Constables.

It is always a privilege to attend an attestation of new officers to Sussex Police and, given the size of this cohort, the event was particularly significant.

Those who were sworn in will be expected to serve the public without fear or favour and uphold the finest traditions of British policing. It is reassuring for Sussex residents that so many individuals have decided to take this oath of service and make policing their career of choice.

More on the attestation on my website early next week.
National Police Race Action Plan
Earlier this week, my office attended a progress briefing on the national Police Race Action Plan.

This is a commitment by all Chief Constables in England and Wales to address racial bias towards Black people – it will look at how policing challenges ‘the policies, procedures, operations and cultures in policing where racism, bias and discrimination exists.’

The Police Race Action Plan has the support of the Association of Police & Crime Commissioners and will be driven by the National Police Chiefs Council and the College of Policing through three main workstreams: internal culture and inclusivity; community engagement and relations; and police use of powers.

There were senior police leaders and PCCs (including representatives from Mayors’ offices) at the meeting and attendees heard some powerful reminders of past promises of cultural change – from the Scarman report of the 1980s onwards – that have still not fully materialised.

With the stinging assessment of Baroness Casey’s report into the Met Police still resounding across all police forces, the Police Race Action Plan is another essential next step in re-establishing public trust.

Katy Bourne OBE

Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner

 

Universal Credit – How we can support your Business!

 

 

(Sent by the EG Business Association)

 

Are some of your employees struggling with the cost of living?
Are you struggling to recruit and maintain staffing?Department for Work & Pensions would like to invite you to join them for a learning lunch on how Universal Credit can support your employees and business. The lunch will take place on 26th April at 12pm for 1 hour, it will be hosted on Microsoft Teams.As you may know, Universal Credit is a benefit payment for people who are on a low income or out of work. It’s designed to help with living costs, including rent and childcare, and can also provide support for people with disabilities or health conditions. However, many businesses are unaware of the potential benefits of Universal Credit for their employees.

During the learning lunch, we will have a presentation, from the Partnership and Employment team, who will explain how Universal Credit works and how it can benefit your employees. We will also discuss how the benefit can support your business.

We believe that attending this learning lunch will be of great value to you and your team.

To confirm your attendance, please click on the link below to book via Eventbrite.
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/universal-credit-how-we-can-support-your-business-tickets-594735107717

We look forward to seeing you there.

 

 

Chief executive’s bulletin

 

14 April 2023

 

NALC partners with GoCollaborate 

We’re delighted to announce we’ve partnered with GoCollaborate, a ground-breaking digital platform transforming how communities and generations work together. They have developed an innovative participatory online community engagement platform, tailored consultation support and helped local (parish and town) councils achieve inclusive public engagement. Local councils use their online community engagement platform to develop their neighbourhood plans and apply for levelling up funding opportunities to create prosperous and sustainable communities. Please find out more about our new partners.

NALC seeks writers for its Good Councillor’s guide series 

NALC is updating The Good Councillor’s guide! An essential guide for new councillors, those thinking about becoming a councillor and long-established councillors. We are looking for an individual to work freelance to lead the update of this guide. The right person for this work will have a good knowledge of how local councils operate, and in particular, a strong understanding of the role of a local councillor and a passion for helping councillors in their roles. We’re committed to finding someone to work on the guide and other resources over a more extended period, and we’ll provide training and support to build knowledge and confidence. So, if you’re interested in this opportunity and would like an informal discussion, please email NALC at charlotte.eisenhart@nalc.gov.uk or complete the form by 1 June 2023 to submit your interest.

Join our Local Council Award Scheme panel 

We’re looking for experienced councillors and clerks to join the national accreditation panel for the Local Council Award Scheme. We are incredibly grateful for the time and energy that panel members give to the scheme, which means that local councils across England can take part in this initiative. Suppose you are keen to hone your knowledge and experience of local council practice, interested in seeing how other councils operate and offering them feedback to help improve, and excited about working with other councillors and clerks. In that case, I’d encourage you to register your interest in joining the national panel.

Infrastructure Levy call for evidence 

You may be aware the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) have issued a consultation on the Infrastructure Levy to inform the design of the Levy and of regulations that will set out its operation in detail. The Infrastructure Levy is a reform to the existing system of developer contributions – Section 106 planning obligations and the Community Infrastructure Levy in England. We will respond to the consultation and want your views on the consultation questions. Please send your opinions to NALC at chris.borg@nalc.gov.uk by 19 May 2023.

On the blog: Policy Committee 

This week’s blog is from NALC’s Policy Committee chair, Cllr David Francis, who writes about how co-options can be a positive tool for local councils when used responsibly and creatively. Having a mix of councillors from various backgrounds is particularly beneficial for local councils. The blog outlines the process for co-opting a councillor that your local council can follow.

Local Council Award Scheme 

Just a quick reminder that the next deadline for applications to the national panel of the Local Council Award Scheme is 5 May 2023 (4 pm). The scheme celebrates the success of local councils and accredits councils at Foundation, Quality and Quality Gold levels. It also provides a framework for councils looking to show they meet the standards set by the sector and for continuous improvement. To learn more about the scheme, visit our website or contact your county association.

And finally… 

Congratulations to Wem Town Council, Cleobury Mortimer Town Council and Bishop’s Castle Town Council, who were recently awarded grant funding from Shropshire Council to support projects that enrich the opportunities for young people in their community and activities for children and families. The remaining pot of grant funding is £105,000, Shropshire Council have written to local councils on how they can bid for up to £25,000 for additional activity in their communities to support the health and wellbeing of the children, young people and families.

Newsletter 06/04/2023

Posted on by Andrew Taylor

The Coronation

You will be pleased to know that we have around 17 community groups, totalling over 200 people in the parade!

Starting at East Court at (approx.) 9am, there will be a ‘Monarchy through the Ages’ fancy dress walking parade lead by the Town Mayor which will process via College Lane, along the High Street and down London Road, over the footbridge and into King George’s Field.  Please come along, wave a flag, and give them a cheer. Some groups will be fundraising for their charities.

Once in King George’s Field, the ceremony will be broadcast via a big screen for all to watch together.  Bring a picnic or buy from one of our food vendors. There will be face painting and other free entertainment for the children including bouncy castle, mini golf, garden games, bungee run and kids colouring sponsored by Step by Step School.

After the ceremony, there will be best in category fancy dress prizes for crowd and parade participants, and best in category prizes in our ‘Right Royal Dog Show’.

Join us in celebrating the Coronation of King Charles III and welcoming in a new Carolean era.

As soon as we have confirmed timings our souvenir programme will be on sale at the library and at the May Fair.

Please email Alice Fletcher if you are able to help VOLUNTEER for any length of time during the day. This event cannot happen without volunteer support and we need to know in advance if you can help so we add you to the schedule. There will be tasks from coordinating the parade participants, road marshalling and putting up bunting in the field. So far I have only heard from 2 Councillors and 3 members of staff. All volunteers will receive a commemorative pin badge as a thank you.

Bin collection days stay eggs-actly the same over Easter

Mid Sussex District Council is reminding residents that rubbish and recycling collections remain the same throughout the Easter holiday period.

Over Easter – Good Friday 7 April to the Bank Holiday on Easter Monday 10 April – rubbish and recycling collection days remain unchanged. If the usual collection day is a Friday or Monday, it will remain on Friday or Monday. The Council’s optional garden waste collection service also remains unchanged.

Mid Sussex District Council keeps the service consistent as much as possible. This enables residents to plan for the service with minimal inconvenience.

Residents are asked to ensure that bins are at the edge of properties at the point nearest the highway by 7am on the day of collection. Bin lids should be closed fully to enable safe collection.
For more information, please call 01444 477440, email wastematters@midsussex.gov.uk or visit www.midsussex.gov.uk/waste-recycling.

Refurbishment of pedestrian crossing

Download the PDF file .

Planning applications and decisions

Download the PDF file .

 

NALC: Chief executive’s bulletin

6 April 2023
Emergency alert system and test on 23 April 

The Cabinet Office has launched a new system that will give the Government and emergency services the capability to send an alert directly to mobile phones when there is a risk to life. A UK-wide alerts test will take place at 15.00 on Sunday 23 April which will see people receive a test message on their mobile phones. The Emergency Alerts system will allow the government to get urgent messages quickly to nearly 90 per cent of mobile phones in a defined area. The system is now ready to be tested across the country following successful tests in East Suffolk and Reading. The alerts will only ever come from the Government or emergency services, and they will issue a warning, the details of the area impacted, and instructions about how best to respond. The Government has produced a toolkit to help councils communicate key messages as part of the Emergency Alerts campaign. This includes some key messages for motorists which may be useful, particularly given some concerns raised in the media by motoring organisations this week. An FAQ document has also been created. Although the Government is strongly recommending that people do not opt out of the service, there are concerns about vulnerable groups and especially those experiencing domestic abuse. There is information on how to opt out in the FAQs, and Refuge has produced a video on how to do this.

Pre-election period guidance reminder 

For those councils with elections this May, the pre-election period, previously known as ‘purdah’, has commenced. This is a period when councils have some restrictions placed on them in relation to their activities and communications. The Local Government Association produces pre-election period guidance that I would encourage all councils to read.

On the blog: ten top tips to improve communications in 2023 

As local councils are the closest level of government to their communities, it is essential councils communicate effectively and strategically. With the increasing reliance on technology and social media, coupled with the fact that councils are providing more services than ever, effective communication is essential in supporting effective governance. On the NALC blog this week, Daniel Purchese from NALC’s partners Breakthrough Communications shares ten top tips to help local councils improve communication with their communities over the coming year, do check it out.

Fortnightly meeting with county officers 

At this week’s meeting between county associations and NALC, there was a briefing from NALC’s HR partner Worknest. We discussed the updated version of the Good Councillor’s Guide to Being a Good Employer which is currently in its final stages of being updated. This guide will cover both legislation and good practice. We also covered performance management including regular supervision and managing concerns, and a range of other general HR queries.

Survey on councillors with non-visible disabilities 

The clerk to Pucklechurch Parish Council is conducting a survey on councillors with non-visible disabilities as part of a dissertation for the Community Engagement and Governance course. This research is of obvious interest to us given the link to our Make a Change campaign which aims to encourage more people to become councillors and increase diversity. The dissertation is titled ‘Diverse voices? Are local councils in England and Wales attracting councillors with non-visible disabilities?’, and if you have a few spare minutes please complete the survey here. The survey is split for respondents who are clerks/officers and councillors, but collects the same data just from the two different perspectives.

Last few places for NALC study visit 2023 

There are still a few places available on the NALC study visit 2023 to Newport Pagnell Town Council on 27/28 June 2023. On this study tour, you will learn more about the council’s devolved leisure services, how it manages its broader portfolio, and its challenges. You will also get exclusive behind-the-scenes access to Newport Pagnell Town Council, meet councillors and officers, and visit essential sites. You can see the full itinerary and book a place by clicking on the event page on the NALC website.

NALC National Assembly 

NALC’s National Assembly, which comprises councillor representatives from each of the 43 county associations, held its latest meeting online this week. Ahead of the draft minutes being available, here are a few highlights:

  • Councillors welcomed the special additional meeting held in January which was convened to discuss the King’s Coronation and noted that since then NALC had secured clarification on a range of issues and questions raised, these were being shared more widely through the creation of a dedicated Coronation webpage.
  • National Assembly received an update on the sale of NALC’s office building at 109 Great Russell Street in London and the move to alternative office space, both of which had been reported to the Management Board and Finance and Scrutiny Committee. Following an extensive discussion, it was agreed that a draft plan setting out how the realised proceeds of the sale would be used and invested and our future accommodation strategy, be further considered.
  • A series of break out groups discussed how to get more people involved in the work of county associations and NALC and a more detailed summary will be available shortly.
  • Other items included an update from committee chairs on their work over the last quarter (which we also report regularly including through this bulletin and the minutes of committee meetings) and an agreement for the meeting in July to be in person and the December meeting to be moved to 29 November to be on the same day as NALC’s parliamentary reception which will incorporate the presentation of the NALC Star Council Awards 2023.

And finally… 

It’s a shorter week as we can all enjoy a long Easter weekend. Fingers crossed the April showers will pass and we have a few days of Spring-like weather. Happy Easter to everyone! Ramadan Mubarak to everyone welcoming in the month of Ramadan. And Passover also began this week, Chag Pesach Sameach to everyone in the Jewish community.

 

Newsletter 31/03/23

Posted on by Andrew Taylor

Copthorne Road Closure

 

 

East Grinstead Town Council have been informed about major roadworks occurring on Copthorne Road that will impact traffic on the A22. The start date for the roadworks is the 3rd of April with an end date of the 14th of April. This work is granted by Surrey County Council and the contractor is Mua Electrical. The works can be viewed on https://one.network/?tmi=GB25674089 . This link will also provide contact details for the contractor.
To see more information please follow our weblink:

Free English Classes – New addition!

 

Download the PDF file .

Airspace change masterplan: scoping the environmental assessments

 

 

Responses, if any, to be with the consultation group by 1st May to allow for preparation and submission.

Consultation group is Cllrs Woodgate, Mrs Farren, Visser and Mrs Mockford

(Sent to all major stakeholders by the UK Civil Aviation Authority)

To ensure that environmental impact considerations are integrated into the development of the airspace change masterplan, the CAA must ensure that the masterplan is subject to a strategic environmental assessment (SEA) and a Habitats Regulations assessment (HRA). These assessments are a legal requirement.

The first stage of each of these assessments is to decide what they must cover, including the approach we propose to use. You can give us your views via our consultation on our dedicated webpage. The consultation closes on 8 May 2023.

The masterplan is being developed by the Airspace Change Organising Group to coordinate airspace changes that will upgrade and modernise UK airspace at a system level.

Once we have decided what each assessment will cover, work will begin on the actual environmental assessments for both SEA and HRA as the masterplan is developed. We will consult on those assessments later.

If you have any questions please email us at airspace.modernisation@caa.co.uk.

Airspace Modernisation
UK Civil Aviation Authority

 

West Sussex County Council Newsletter

 

 

‘Egg-perience’ West Sussex this Easter!

Check out Experience West Sussex which is full of exciting things to see and do over the Easter holidays.

Join Ludo the Lamb’s Easter Race or get a wriggle on with the Superworm Trail, hunt for chocolate eggs or try some spring crafts.

Soak up the spectacle of historic re-enactments, chill with an outdoor yoga session in the countryside, take a vineyard tour or test your nerve in an Escape Room and much much more!

‘Cracking’ ways to enjoy Easter

How to contact us over the Easter break

We are here if you need to get in touch with us over the Easter Bank Holiday.

On the link below you’ll also find details of our online services, including reporting a problem with a road or pavement if you spot something on your travels, and renewing library books.

How to contact us

Cut the cost of composting with this special offer

Take advantage of our special offer and buy a subsidised compost bin this spring.

Composting has lots of benefits, and simply involves recycling your fruit and veg peelings, along with any other organic materials like grass cuttings, unwanted plants, tea bags, coffee grounds and egg shells.

Together, these will naturally decompose over time to produce a ready-made mixture rich in nutrients to feed your soil and nourish your garden.

It’s a great way to minimise waste collected from your household, and a simple way to help the environment and give your garden a natural boost.

Read more about composting on our waste prevention page.

Buy a GetComposting compost bin

Fun times in our libraries

There are some exciting storytime and craft activities for children taking place in selected libraries during the Easter school holidays.

These ‘Go Wild in the Library’ special events are free to attend but places are limited and must be pre-booked.

Book a free storytime event

Clear the clutter

If you are planning a spring clean this Easter then check out the opening days and times of your local Recycling Centre on the link below.

You can also find details of the booking system, and a full list of what items you can bring to our centres, if you can’t repurpose or donate them to a charity.

Details of our Recycling Centres

Stay safe in the countryside this Easter

Visiting farms can be great fun but contact with farm animals carries a risk of catching infections from some of the bugs they naturally carry.

You can reduce this risk by washing hands thoroughly with soap and water after contact with animals, and especially before eating and drinking.

If you or anyone in your group is sick or has diarrhoea within two weeks of visiting a farm contact your GP or call NHS 111 as soon as possible.

Stay safe at the farm

NALC Newsletter

 

Practitioners’ Guide 2023

NALC has published the Joint Panel on Accountability and Governance (JPAG) 2023 edition of the Practitioners’ Guide.

 

Council tax levels for 2023/24

DLUHC has published information on council tax levels set by councils in England for the financial year 2023/24.

 

NALC and LGA-led peer review

Morecambe Town Council is the latest council to participate in NALC’s peer review in partnership with the Local Government Association (LGA).

 

NALC attends The Big Help Out launch

NALC attended The Big Help Out launch on 20 March 2023 as the sector plays a significant part in engaging with voluntary and community groups.

 

Blog: Utility Aid

In this week’s blog, Utility Aid writes about the Energy Bills Discount Scheme which replaces the previous Energy Bills Relief Scheme.

SCRP Annual Review 2022

 

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Planning Applications

 

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NALC Events

 

What local councils can do about emergency planning

29 March 2023 — 12.00 – 13:15

The outbreak of COVID-19 has highlighted that unexpected events can and do happen, with the potential to change 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 (Cullompten Town Council) and Finn Woodhill (Communities Prepared)

 

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Fighting climate change with local council action

24 May 2023 — 12.00 – 13:15

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.

Speakers: Megan Blyth (Centre for Sustainable Energy), Culvin Milmer (Swanage Town Council) and Cllr Richard Neale (Draughton Parish Council)

 

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Study Tour 2023: Newport Pagnell Town Council

27 and 28 June 2023

NALC’s annual study tour is back! This year we will be going to Newport Pagnell Town Council in Buckinghamshire. On this study tour, you will learn more about the council’s devolved leisure services, how it manages its broader portfolio, and the challenges it faces.

This unique opportunity will give insight into why Newport Pagnell is one of England’s most innovative towns. Newport Pagnell boasts the oldest working iron bridge in the country, and several of the town’s hotels and public houses have been founded as coaching inns in past centuries. Today’s Newport Pagnell offers visitors and residents all the amenities of a modern town.

The study tour has limited availability (12 places), so tickets will be on a first-come, first-serve basis. We recommend booking early to avoid disappointment.

 

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GATCOM News Bulletin

 

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Chief executive’s bulletin

24 March 2023
Launch of The Big Help Out 

The Big Help Out is happening on the 8 May and is an initiative to celebrate and promote volunteering around the Coronation and well into the future. NALC’s chair, Cllr Keith Stevens, attended the campaign’s launch on 20 May as local government has a huge part to play both in terms of engaging with voluntary and community organisations but also in terms of opening up voluntary opportunities in and with councils. NALC is working with Neighbourly Lab, a non-profit organisation which is partnering with the Big Help Out, to support councils to get involved and be ready for the local government launch date on the 24 April. Help is available from Neighbourly Lab, such as sharing ideas for how you can get involved, supporting you to develop volunteering opportunities, and providing communication materials for councils to share locally. Neighbourly Lab is also keen to have one on one conversations with councils to find out what you’re doing and what further support would help you. They will be hosting bi-weekly coffee morning drop-in sessions starting from the 30 March for you to meet other councils and chat through plans. If you’d like to share any of your current goals for the Big Help Out, please email emma@neighbourlylab.com. To find out more about the Big Help Out including signing up and accessing support, please visit www.neighbourlylab.com/.

2023 edition of Practitioners Guide published 

This week, we published the Joint Panel on Accountability and Governance (JPAG) 2023 edition of the Practitioners’ Guide. The 2023 edition of the guide has minor updates and applies to Annual Governance and Accountability Returns regarding financial years commencing on or after 1 April 2023.

Meetings of NALC’s Management Board and Finance and Scrutiny Committee 

The main focus of meetings of the Management Board and indeed the Finance and Scrutiny Committee this week has been the current sale of the NALC office, here are a few highlights:

  • The sale of 109 Great Russell Street in London and work to secure alternative accommodation whilst we review our future needs are proceeding well and councillors have agreed to conduct a major review of NALC’s budget in the light of these significant developments.
  • The Board agreed to look at progress on the review of NALC’s governance at a special meeting likely to take place in July.
  • Councillors supported proposals to further develop the financial advice and support which we provide to county associations and councils and more details will be available shortly.
  • Plans for NALC’s presence at the Local Government Association’s annual conference in Bournemouth in July were noted, this will comprise a stand in the exhibition, a fringe event, a session in the Innovation Zone.
  • Baroness Scott of Needham Market and our officers were thanked for their ongoing work making the case for changes to the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill to address sector concerns on issues such as remote meetings and standards.
  • It was noted that the Committee’s chair, Cllr Graham Ford, was no longer the Cornwall Association of Local Councils representative on National Assembly and thanked him for his work over many years, agreeing that Cllr Peter Davey, vice chair (finance) would act as chair pending a future appointment.
  • The Committee also noted updated risk register and received a report on the latest financial position and cash flow which was broadly in line with budget, although some one-off costs associated with the sale of the NALC office will need to be addressed from the proceeds.

On the blog: Utility Aid 

This week’s blog comes from our partner, Utility Aid. They write about the new government Energy Bills Discount Scheme, which runs from 1 April 2023 to 31 March 2024 and replaces the previous Energy Bills Relief Scheme.

Fortnightly meeting with county officers 

At this week’s regular meeting with county officers, we were delighted to be joined by Daniel Purchese from Breakthrough Communications, NALC’s partner on council communications and engagement, as well as data protection and Freedom of Information (FOI). Daniel provided county officers with information and advice on data sharing agreements and other matters related to FOI requests. We also gave several updates including on our work engaging with the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill, recent changes at Smaller Audit Appointments Limited and progress on our office move.

Updated advice and guidance 

I am pleased to let you know about several updated documents which are available to county associations and member councils. The briefing on VAT on sports facilities, produced by the Parkinson Partnership LLP, has been updated in light of new guidance from His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs. The Template Annual Leave Policy has been updated to reflect the additional annual leave day for staff employed on National Joint Council conditions. We have also updated Legal Topic Note (LTN) 31 on local council general powers because of legislative changes in Wales. LTN 31 will now be England only advice and be known as LTN 31E. All these documents can be found in the members area of the NALC website.

Member benefits information 

In recent months NALC has launched two new services for county associations and local councils. A new HR advisory service, in partnership with WorkNest, gives county associations access to a team of employment specialists to assist in giving advice to councils. And our e-learning offer is now available to all councils with a new range of courses developed through the Civility and Respect Project. To reflect these changes our benefits of membership information has been updated to highlight the increased range of benefits available.

Out and abouts 

In addition to spending time at the NALC office preparing for our move out of 109 Great Russell Street, several colleagues have also been out and about this week, here’s a summary:

  • Last weekend, our member services manager, Anders Hanson, attended the Liberal Democrat Party Spring Conference, the party’s first in-person conference in three years. This was an opportunity to meet and build relations with councillors from local councils and principal councils. Anders also met with parliamentarians engaged the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill and MPs representing areas with local councils.
  • And to end this week, Anders has spent the last few days in Morecambe as part of the town council’s corporate peer challenge. This is a joint project with the Local Government Association and the panel also included an experienced clerk and councillor from Falmouth Town Council and Frome Town Council respectively.
  • Charlotte Eisenhart, head of member services, attended an online meeting of the Internal Audit Forum (IAF) on 21 March. It was the first time NALC was able to join the Forum since the launch of our partnership and Charlotte gave an update on the Joint Panel on Accountability and Governance and the changes to the 2023 edition of the Practitioners Guide.
  • On 21 March, Fflur Jones, campaigns intern, paid a visit to Flitwick Town Council who were a finalist in last year’s NALC Star Council Awards. I’m grateful to the town council for their warm welcome and hospitality and for sharing throughout the day some of their exciting projects from tackling the cost of living through their community fridge, and their Proud Ampthill and Flitwick project celebrating the town’s LGBT+ community. The visit ended with a tour of their new Youth Hub which organises a range of activities for young people as well as providing them with a safe space to hang out after school. You can find out more about the town council’s projects on their website.

NALC Policy Committee agenda papers 

The agenda papers for next week’s meeting of NALC’s Policy Committee on 28 March are now available. The committee will be considering two motions from the Leicestershire and Rutland Association of Local Councils on the Financial Services Compensation Scheme and the Transparency Code for smaller authorities. Other items on the agenda the final Local Government Finance Settlement 2023/24, our campaign for direct access to grant funding from the government, councillor training, establishing a policy on local council amenities, the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill and the recent survey of clerks by the Society of Local Council Clerks.

And finally… 

As I mentioned in my summary of the meetings of the Management Board and Finance and Scrutiny Committee, NALC is on the move! From 31 March, we are moving out of our office at 109 Great Russell Street in London. We are in the process of finalising arrangements for alternative accommodation which will take effect from 1 May 2023. I will of course provide a further update when this has been confirmed. In the meantime, post sent to NALC’s current address will still be managed, there is no change to our email addresses or telephone numbers, and there will be no impact on the delivery of our services and support to county associations and local councils.

Newsletter 24/03/23

Posted on by Andrew Taylor

Email Account Deactivation

 

 

I want to remind you that come May 9th, those choosing not to stand in the upcoming election will have their @eastgrinstead.gov.uk email addresses deactivated. Please note that come this date you will no longer be able to access your account under any circumstances. Therefore, any important emails that you wish to keep (bearing in mind our commitment to GDPR*) be saved in another location accessible to you.

For those standing in the upcoming election who were not re-elected, your email will also be deactivated by May 9th. I would recommend all review their inbox and save important emails to other accessible locations.

*GDPR – Emails sent to you on your @eastgrinstead.gov.uk and intended only when in the position of Cllr should not be saved privately. Please do not save any Emails containing personal information including personal email addresses and home addresses. For more information on what you can save, please see https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2018/12/contents/enacted.

 

 

Planning Applications 24/03/23

 

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Have your say on South East Water’s strategic priorities for the next 25 years

 

 

South East Water are consulting on their 25 year plan,  if anyone has any comments to feed in to a response please send them to the Clerk or the consultation group members (Jason, Helen, Julie or Frazer) before 1st April as there is only a three week turn around.

(Sent by South East Water to all major stakeholders)

Have your say:

You can read our draft Strategic Direction Statement and complete our survey by visiting our dedicated engagement hub.

You can submit your views up to 23:59 on Monday 10 April.

 

About the SDS:

Through creating this draft SDS we’ve spoken to a wide range of customers and stakeholders, as well as reviewed existing research.

The draft statement is built upon seven key priorities:

 

  • Provide top quality drinking water and an efficient service, support its customers and deliver greater value to society
  • Manage and steward its assets, invest and innovate to ensure its water supply system is resilient to future challenges
  • Protect and enhance the environment and biodiversity
  • Reduce its carbon footprint, adapt to the impact of climate change and be a truly sustainable business
  • Secure the future of water by protecting freshwater resources and developing new sustainable sources
  • Secure the future of water by halving leakage and helping reduce the demand for water
  • Be ready for the future through technology, innovation and investing in people

 

Council elections called for 4 May 2023

 

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West Sussex County Council Newsletter

 

Welcome to the March 2023 edition of our Residents’ eNewsletter.

Recycling Centres – new longer opening hours

Getting ready for a spring clean and declutter?

From Saturday 1 April, all our West Sussex Recycling Centres will switch to extended summer hours.

Remember you will need to book a slot to attend sites at Bognor Regis, Crawley, Horsham, Littlehampton, Shoreham-by-Sea and Worthing.

View the new opening times

Local scheme aims to cut carbon emissions and save on bills

A group-buying scheme, which aims to make renewable energy more affordable, is open for new customer registrations in West Sussex.

The Solar Together initiative puts high-quality solar panels, battery storage and Electric Vehicle charge points within the reach of more residents.

This year, community groups and small business are also able to join the scheme.

The initiative uses pre-approved installers, helping people feel more confident about their renewable energy investments.

Register for Solar Together

Job opportunities and roadshows

Children’s Residential Service

We’re looking for people to join our friendly, supportive team, working with children who have a range of social, emotional and mental health difficulties.

The teams work to create a homely, nurturing environment for children and young people in our residential care homes.

Benefits include up to £1,500 bonus in your first 18 months via our Recruitment and Retention Payment Scheme, excellent training and development opportunities and discounts on retailers countrywide. Find out more.

Digital jobs in West Sussex

A new programme called ‘Digital Futures’ has launched to connect local businesses with talented jobseekers. It is a running a series of free interactive roadshows this year. Find out more.

More job opportunities in West Sussex

COVID-19 vaccination spring booster

COVID-19 is more serious in older people and those with certain underlying health conditions.

For these reasons, people aged 75 years and over, those who live in care homes, and are aged five years and over with a weakened immune system, will be offered a spring booster of the coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine.

If you are eligible you should be offered an appointment between April and June, with those at highest risk being called in first. You will be invited to have your booster around six months from your last dose but you can have it from three months.

COVID-19 spring booster information

Putting batteries in the bin? You could be in for a shock!

Our West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service and West Sussex Recycles are warning residents of the dangers of putting batteries and electrical items, such as hairdryers, vapes, and mobile phones, in your household waste and recycling bins.

Batteries and electricals often contain hazardous materials, which can start a fire when the items are crushed during the collection and sorting process.

To recycle your old batteries and electricals safely and prevent fires, you can:

  • Take them to your local recycling centre.
  • Use the designated battery recycling collection points in some shops and supermarkets.
  • Take large lithium-ion batteries, such as those from e-scooters, to your local recycling centre and follow the advice from staff on site.
  • See if your local district or borough council offers a kerbside recycling collection service for batteries and small electricals.
Read more on our campaign page

A day to remember your loved ones

Today (Thursday 23 March) is the UK National Day Of Reflection where we remember loved ones who have died, support people who are grieving and connect with each other.

Last year we participated in the ‘Reflections Project’ where forget-me-not art installations were sited around the county in memory of loved ones who died during the pandemic, including Chichester County Hall.

We’ve produced a short, animated video about bereavement and loss which may be helpful to anyone who is struggling or is supporting someone who has been bereaved.

View the video

Have your say

Share your opinions and views on the following roads projects and schemes:

More news

Head to our Newsroom to find all the latest news. Below are some highlights:

You can watch Lizzie from our Prevention Assessment Team share six top tips to help you live independently in your own home and local community.   #LifeYouWantToLead

 

MSVA E-Bulletin

 

Please see the link attached to view the new MSVA E-Bulletin – Newsletter March 14

 

Chief executive’s bulletin

17 March 2023

Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill

I am immensely grateful to NALC’s president, Baroness Scott of Needham Market, and vice president, Lord Lytton, for championing local (parish and town) councils so powerfully and articulately in the House of Lords this week. Two sessions of the Committee Stage of the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill were held on 13 March and 15 March, featuring several amendments tabled by Baroness Scott. The committee stage involves detailed line by line examination of the separate parts (clauses and schedules) of a bill, and the House of Lords convention is that votes do not usually take place, and amendments are debated before being withdrawn. Monday’s session included Baroness Scott’s amendment to involve local councils in the overview and scrutiny committees of combined authorities and received cross-party support. In response, the government minister Earl Howe stated that while this could be appropriate, it should be determined locally and not made mandatory. Wednesday’s session featured seven amendments covering the suspension of councillors, carer’s dependents allowance, review of neighbourhood governance, power to pay grants to local councils, financial assistance to places of worship and the general power of competence. Again, these proposals received significant support from across the House. I was pleased to see the minister Baroness Scott of Bybrook, confirm the review of neighbourhood governance would take place in the coming financial year and note the intention of clarifying powers of local councils to fund church buildings. However, I was bitterly disappointed the government did not agree with the other proposals, citing the additional cost regarding the carer’s allowance and remote meetings that the government would be publishing its response to the call for evidence in due course, which would set out its intentions. We are liaising with Baroness Scott and other Peers about pressing some of these issues further at the Report stage of the Bill. The 13 March session is available to watch or read on Hansard, likewise the 15 March recording and transcript of sessions one and two.

NALC achieves Cyber Essentials certification

I’m proud to announce that ⁠NALC has recently achieved Cyber Essentials certification, demonstrating our commitment to protecting members’ data and business operations against cyber threats. Cyber Essentials is a UK government-backed certification scheme designed to help organisations of all sizes and sectors protect themselves against cyber-attacks. I strongly encourage all local councils to take cybersecurity seriously and consider obtaining Cyber Essentials certification.

BBC announces license waiver for Coronation events

The BBC has informed NALC that it will allow public events to show the King’s Coronation without needing a TV license. The special dispensation will apply for the weekend of 6-7 May 2023, covering the Coronation Concert and the Coronation itself. Find out more about the TV licensing dispensation. We’ve also added this update to our dedicated Coronation webpage.

NALC featured in the Local Government Lawyer

This week, the Local Government Lawyer (LGL) published a story on the government’s consultation on proposed changes to the National Planning Policy Framework. Many organisations across the local government, planning, and house-building sectors published their responses, including NALC. NALC strongly opposed the government’s suggested National Development Management Policy which could trump any local or neighbourhood plan.

On the blog: Elect Her

Ahead of the forthcoming local elections in May, this week’s blog is from Elect Her, a non-partisan organisation working to motivate, support and equip women in all their diversity to stand for elected office. They provide a range of support to give women the knowledge, confidence, and skills they need. In the piece, Amy Knox from the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association UK shares some reflections and what she learnt from a “truly electric, informative and inspiring” workshop about getting involved in local councils and why women should “put on our big girl pants” and throw themselves into it. Do check it out!

Digital democracy meeting

Justin Griggs, NALC’s head of policy and communications, and Jane Moore, senior solicitor and legal services manager, attended a meeting of the Digital Democracy and Council Meeting Partnership on 14 March. The group considers the future of remote meetings, and NALC attends along with representatives from various local government bodies such as the Local Government Association, Lawyers in Local Government, Association of Democratic Services Officers, and the Society of Local Council Clerks. NALC updated the group on our president’s amendments to the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill, including giving all councils the power to hold remote meetings. Other sector representatives also spoke about work they were doing to support the remote meetings campaign, including a Freedom of Information request by LLG for the government to publish information regarding the call for evidence, which the government has denied.

NALC online event on custom and self-build homes

Our latest online event took place this week, and we were pleased to be joined by Jeremy Christophers from the Right to Build Task Force and Hugo Davies from the Broadhempston Community Land Trust Affordable Self-Build Housing Project. Both spoke about the benefits to local communities of the delivery of homes through custom and self-build, including boosting local economies, improved sustainability, reduced churn, and fewer objections to the development. You can also read more about custom and self-build on the NALC blog here.

Improvement and Development Board 

The Improvement and Development Board (IDB) met on 18 March and discussed mandatory training for councillors and the future of the Civility and Respect Project, and received updates on the Local Council Award Scheme, Certificate in Local Council Administration, and a range of other improvement initiatives. One of the projects the IDB oversees is our peer challenge programme for larger local councils, which we run in partnership with the Local Government Association. Morecambe Town Council will be the fourth local council to participate and will host a panel of peers for two days next week. Cirencester Town Council was the last local council to host a peer challenge in November last year, and their report has been published.

And finally…

The NALC National Network: Coastal communities are meeting next week on 20 March. The agenda includes mandatory training and an open forum for sharing information and good practice. If you haven’t joined the network yet and would like to attend next week, you can sign up here.