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)

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)

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.

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.

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.

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!