Please note: this news article is in our archive. Articles were correct at time of publication, but should not be relied on for accuracy after the passage of time.
Goodbye from me!
(Circa 2018)
Dear East Grinstead Town Council,
As I sit down to write this farewell message, my heart is filled with a mix of emotions. It is with a heavy heart that I bid adieu to this incredible community and my cherished role. Serving as a part of East Grinstead Town Council has been an unforgettable journey.
My journey with the council began at the tender age of 17, when I joined as an apprentice. Little did I know that this initial step would lead to such a fulfilling and rewarding career. Through dedication and hard work, I pursued my studies in AAT and proudly qualified within my first three years. The trust and support you placed in me allowed me to grow both personally and professionally.
Being Dan’s assistant was an experience, though it was short-lived it provided me with essential knowledge of the sector. Nonetheless, it opened doors to new opportunities, and when I approached Julie seeking another challenge, she suggested pursuing CILCA. The pandemic provided an unexpected window of time, and with determination, I completed a two-year qualification in less than five months. This accomplishment solidified my passion for the role, and since then, I have relished every moment of it.
For some time, I also had the privilege of serving as the Clerk and RFO for Apuldram Parish Meeting, extending my horizons and honing my skills even further. It has been an honor to assist their Council and contribute to their endeavors.
As I move forward to embrace new possibilities, I am thrilled to announce that I will be joining Pulborough Parish Council as their Clerk & RFO. I am eagerly anticipating this fresh chapter in my career and the opportunities it holds.
To the members of East Grinstead Town Council, please know that the memories we created together will forever hold a special place in my heart. I will deeply miss each and every one of you, as well as the enjoyable responsibilities that came with being part of this remarkable team. Thank you for your unwavering support, encouragement and friendship throughout the years. I have also really enjoyed the banter, fun and atmosphere of this enjoyable role.
As I embark on this new journey, I wish you all the success and prosperity in managing this beautiful place.
Once again, thank you from the bottom of my heart for allowing me to be a part of East Grinstead Town Council. Farewell, and until we meet again.
(Circa 2023)
Harry
(Circa 2016)
Breast Screening Survey
WSCC Salt Audit
The WSCC Salt Audit is being undertaken, there are potentially two salt bins that can be relocated if there are areas of greater need. If you have anywhere that has enquires outstanding please make Alison (communityservices@eastgrinstead.gov.uk) aware by the end of next week.
NALC Events
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.
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.
A FREE joint event with the Local Government Association aimed at the general public to get involved with local (parish and town) councils.
Hear about how you can be the voice of your community by standing for election as a local councillor at the May 2024 elections and beyond.
This event will provide a valuable opportunity to learn about the work and role of councillors and the huge difference you could make as a local leader in your area.
A panel of experts, including those who have become councillors at various local government levels, will share their insights, experience, and advice. You will also be able to ask questions, engage in discussions and access the wide range of support available to take action for your community.
Speakers: Jane Biscombe (Weymouth Town Council), Cllr Katharine Keats Rohan (Wallingford Town Council and South Oxfordshire District Council), Cllr Chidi Nweke (Epping Forest District Council) and Virginia Ponton (Local Government Association)
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.
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!
How local councils can benefit from the levelling up agenda
31 January 2024 — 12.00 – 13.15
The levelling up agenda has been a hot topic recently, with many questions about what it means, which areas it applies to, and which sectors will benefit. Local (parish and town) councils are uniquely positioned to take advantage of the levelling up agenda, but they need to be prepared for the challenges that come with devolution.
This event will explain how local councils can survive and thrive in a devolved environment by taking on assets, liabilities, and services from their principal authority. You will learn about the benefits and challenges of devolution and hear from experts on how to make the most of the opportunities presented by the levelling up agenda.
Join us to understand better how local councils can benefit from the levelling up agenda and what steps they need to take to prepare for devolution. You will hear from speakers with experience in local government and councils successfully navigating the devolution process. They will share their understandings, best practices, and lessons learned, giving you a helpful perspective on succeeding in a devolved environment.
This event suits local councillors, clerks, and community leaders who want to understand the opportunities and challenges of the levelling up agenda and how to prepare for devolution. Join us to learn how to survive and thrive in a devolved environment and make the most of the opportunities presented by the levelling up agenda.
The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly of social media in the local council sector
28 February 2024 — 12.00 – 13.15
Social media can be a powerful tool for local (parish and town) councils to engage with their communities, but it can also be a source of conflict and negativity. This event will explore the benefits and drawbacks of social media use in the sector and provide guidance on how to use it effectively and responsibly.
Join us for a candid discussion on the dos and don’ts of social media in the local council sector. We’ll explore case studies and best practices and provide actionable advice on creating a social media policy that promotes civility and respect. Whether you’re a seasoned social media user or just getting started, this event is a must-attend for anyone who wants to use social media to build stronger communities.
Reconnecting communities through community transport
27 March 2024 — 12.00 – 13.15
The provision of community transport has become an increasingly important issue for local (parish and town) councils in recent years. With limited public transport options available in many areas, local councils must step up and support low-cost and sustainable community transport schemes to ensure their communities are connected and can access essential services.
Join us at this event, where we will showcase successful community transport programmes that local councils have implemented. We will also provide details into the national stakeholder scene and how local councils can collaborate with other organisations to improve transport options in their area.
Take advantage of this opportunity to learn about the benefits of community transport, how to establish partnerships and funding opportunities, and how your local council can make a difference in reconnecting your community through transport.
Public consultation extension to Friday 1 September 2023
I am happy to advise that the consultation group for this are : Cllrs Farren, M Belsey, Ody, Whittaker and Mockford. If anyone has any comments they would like submitted then can they please send them to a member of the consultation group or Clerk no later than 20th August to allow the pulling together of comments and submission by deadline.
Public consultation extension to Friday 1 September 2023
Good afternoon,
Over the past three weeks, passengers have been invited to send their feedback to transport watchdogs Transport Focus and London TravelWatch on proposals to change how tickets are sold and for improvements to customer service.
Throughout the consultation so far, we have been keen to ensure that our consultation is as accessible to everyone as possible.
We know some customers have asked for more time to understand information and make any submission to Transport Focus or London TravelWatch that they may wish to make.
Feedback is important to us, and so for anyone that needs additional time to respond, the local public consultation has now been extended until Friday 1 September 2023. Customers who have already responded do not need to do so again.
As a reminder, consultation information is available at:
If you are aware of anyone that has not had a chance to respond but would like to, please forward on this email as we want to ensure as many people as possible have the opportunity to take part.
As always, if you have any questions, please let us know.
Best wishes,
Martin
Martin Darby Stakeholder Manager Govia Thameslink Railway
(Sent by Katy Bourne OBE to all major stakeholders)
Hello
On Monday, the High Sheriffs of East & West Sussex visited my office in Lewes to learn more about the work of my team. High Sheriffs are appointed yearly to their independent role and their active support for emergency services, crime prevention agencies and the voluntary sector is hugely appreciated.
It was helpful for Andy Bliss (High Sheriff of West Sussex) and Richard Bickersteth (High Sheriff of East Sussex) to meet the different teams in my office and for them to hear examples of the varied range of work I undertake as PCC for Sussex.
Throughout their shrieval year, our High Sheriffs will be highlighting the diversity of our county and supporting local groups helping children and young people, rural communities and criminal justice agencies in particular.
The High Sheriff Association also run National Crimebeat, a charity giving recognition to the most innovative and successful crime prevention projects carried out by young people aged between 5 and 25 years. Submissions for this year open in November and I’ll be encouraging some of the fantastic schemes we have in Sussex to put themselves forward for the awards.
This week I attended the national retail crime steering group, chaired by the Policing Minister, where we discussed the new aggravated offence for assaults against shopworkers.
I also updated the group on the progress of Pegasus – a ground-breaking initiative that I am leading with UK retailers in partnership with police to identify and target the most serious and harmful organised crime gangs operating in the UK.
Finally, this Saturday some of my team will be supporting West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service at their Open Day in Broadwater, Worthing. We will be talking to the public about anti-social behaviour and feelings of safety in Sussex so, if you’re able to, please pop along to have your say.
In this week’s blog, ACRE write about the shift from face-to-face banking to online banking and the issues that can arise among local councils.
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
27 July 2023
NALC and the LGA launch a joint event to empower individuals to become local councillors
Last week on 21 July 2023, we launched a FREE joint online event with the Local Government Association (LGA), which will take place on 14 November 2023 on how residents can be the voice of their community by standing for election as a local councillor. The event, part of our Make A Change campaign, will cover the path to becoming a local councillor and councillors’ vital work and role. Our expert panel features councillors that have served at different levels of local government and will share their insights, experiences, and advice about the world of local leadership. We are targeting the general public and those not yet involved in their community, so we need the support of local (parish and town) councils and county associations to share this event as widely as possible to unearth the next crop of community leaders! Learn more about our Make A Change campaign, which encourages people from all backgrounds and experiences to get involved with local councils.
Martyn’s Law update
NALC recently submitted written evidence to the Home Affairs Committee, which is undertaking pre-legislative scrutiny of the Draft Terrorism (Prevention of Premises) Bill, which sets out requirements that venues and organisations will have to meet to ensure public safety. The proposed legislation is known as Martyn’s Law in tribute to Martyn Hett, who was killed alongside 21 others in the Manchester Arena terrorist attack in 2017 and whose mother, Figen Murray, has since campaigned for greater security at venues. In our submission, we supported the government’s aim of making the public safer at publicly accessible locations and security measures but stressed that interventions should be reasonable, affordable, and proportionate. While we are keen to work with the government on the bill, we are concerned about the lack of engagement with the sector. We also highlighted the impact the legislation would have on councils as organisers of events covered by the duty, the lack of an impact assessment including costs, concerns about the capacity thresholds being used and the need for proportionality, especially of risk, lack of clarity on the regulator and enforcement, the need for a communications campaign and dedicated programme of support and guidance, and an extensive lead in time to allow councils to prepare. I’m pleased that many of our concerns are included in the committee’s response published today. The committee has warned the draft bill fails to address the real risk of terror attacks and that small venues face implementing costly measures while larger venues fall out of scope. It calls for the legislation to be introduced in stages (with larger venues first), further research to assess the threat to small organisations and venues, adequate funding to be in place, a communications campaign and comprehensive proposals for the regulator. Martyn’s Law is among the priorities that the respective chairs of NALC and the Society of Local Council Clerks (SLCC) have agreed to work closely on, and we are in the process of developing and agreeing on a work programme to engage with the government and provide support to the sector.
Larger Councils Committee
NALC’s Larger Councils Committee held a workshop session on 25 July 2023 at our partner’s CCLA offices. Here are a few highlights:
Shar Roselman, the clerk of Newport Pagnell Town Council, provided an update on the recent NALC study visit on 27/28 June 2023, which the town council had hosted. It focussed on devolved leisure services, highlighting the great feedback from attendees. She also shared ways to improve the study tour in the future, which we will be picking up in plans for next year’s visit to Yate Town Council. Cllr Mike Drew, a councillor on the town council and vice-chair of NALC updated the committee on plans for next year, which will focus on youth engagement – so look out for more details in coming months as places are limited!
The committee held two breakout sessions in small groups to discuss ways of getting more people involved in NALC’s work for larger councils and on the committee itself and on the government’s commitment to undertake a review of neighbourhood governance where they explored ways of strengthening the powers and funding of local councils and making it easier to set them up.
Charlotte Eisenhart, head of member services, gave an update on our expanding range of support and improvement activity covering council membership, audit and finance, the forthcoming new NALC website, new guidance and resources, and the Civility and Respect Project.
The committee were pleased to be joined by Helen Ball, the clerk at Shrewsbury Town Council, who, along with Justin Griggs, head of policy and communications, ran a session on Martyn’s Law. Helen gave an informative presentation based on years of experience running events and venues on how the legislation would impact councils, the concerns which need to be addressed to ensure the legislation can be introduced effectively, and local councils can meet new responsibilities and areas where NALC and SLCC can work together to lobby the government and provide support.
On the blog: Office for National Statistics
This week’s blog is from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) on visualising local Census 2021 data. ONS are committed to making all its data as accessible as possible, so they are creating a range of products and tools to help users understand and visualise census data. Their create a custom dataset toolallows users to create and customise their datasets, allowing them to explore the relationships between topics that matter to them fully. Their census mapsalso let users explore Census 2021 data down to a local neighbourhood level. Read the blog to learn more about how your local council can make the most of Census data!
NALC moves closer to White Ribbon accreditation
NALC is moving closer to becoming a White Ribbon accredited organisation after our steering group met on 25 July 2023. The group considered and approved a three-year action plan to implement between 2023 and 2026, which we will submit for assessment. The group also shared their thoughts on how NALC and the sector can celebrate White Ribbon Day this year (25 November 2023). I’d urge local councils to explore becoming a White Ribbon accredited or supporter organisation and join the campaign to help end violence against women and girls. You can find out more information on the White Ribbon website!
And finally…
Harrogate and Scarborough in North Yorkshire are set to get new town councils! Both towns are the only unparished parts of the new unitary council created through the most recent round of local government reorganisation. A public consultation supported plans to introduce town councils in Harrogate and Scarborough as early as 2024. However, with further consultations and considerations on councillor numbers, we’re more likely to see their creation and first elections in 2025. Overall, this is positive news and well done to colleagues at the Yorkshire Local Councils Associations for the important part they’ve played, which moves us closer to our goal of making England fully parished! You can find out more on our website about creating a local council.
