Do you want to make a difference in your community? If so, consider becoming a Parish Councillor.
Town and Parish Councils are the lowest tier of local government. Parish Councillors make decisions about how money is spent in their immediate locality, in the Toft Newton parish you can directly influence:
- Local planning applications,
- Contribute to local and national consultations,
- The management of the park, playing field and the football field,
- As well as being an advocate for their area.
Discussions can range from dog waste bins, to trees, to roads, to buildings, to community events and much more.
If you can give a few hours each week / month, please reach out to Michael Lewis, the Parish Council Clerk, Responsible Financial Officer and Proper Officer, initially by e-mailing clerk@toftnewtonparishcouncil.gov.uk.
There are some basic criteria that you must meet, for example, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Be a British citizen, an eligible Commonwealth citizen, a citizen of the Republic of Ireland, a qualifying EU citizen or an EU citizen with retained rights.
- Live, own property or work in the Parish or within three miles of its boundaries, and have done so for more than twelve months.
- Be registered as an elector and continue to be registered throughout your term as a Councillor.
- Not be employed in a paid role by the Council.
Details of the role of a local Councillor, along with the full eligibility and disqualification criteria can be viewed here.
Being a Parish Councillor is a rewarding experience, although it is unpaid, expenses can be claimed, training and development is available to help you understand the role and keep up to date with local government legislation.
If you are interested in finding out more about being a Parish Councillor please have an informal conversation with any of the current Parish Councillors or the Proper Officer.
The Proper Officer will confirm your eligibility with you, before asking Parish Councillors to consider your application.
Further information:
The Good Councillor's Guides
The Seven Principles of Public Life (known as The Nolan Principles)