Democracy and Citizenship
EAST KEAL PARISH COUNCIL
DEMOCRACY & CITIZENSHIP POLICY
‘The Council will seek to encourage all residents to play an active part and maintain an interest in village affairs’.
East Keal Parish Council acknowledges the importance of engaging its residents in the democratic process. Activities aimed at promoting democracy and citizenship can offer a great deal and play a key part in encouraging members of the community to undertake a more active role within it.
Democracy - Objectives
East Keal Parish Council will endeavour to:-
Be open, willing to listen, non-biased and take responsibility for decisions made at Council and encourage residents to express their views.
We will encourage people by actively seeking their views when possible.
We will work alongside and support any democratic community projects that are for the good of residents.
How can we achieve this at the Parish Council level of Local Government?
We shall encourage residents to stand as Parish Councillors through an election rather than co-option. Parish Councillors should feel accountable to Parishioners
Seeking to represent parishioners regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, assets or influence
Work to implement the wishes of the majority, as well as consider minority views.
Encourage parishioners to express their opinions
Encourage parishioners to get involved, especially young people and those that are disadvantaged.
Additional steps that can be taken to ensure the above is implemented
Encourage individual Councillors to see where they can make a difference in their community.
Councillors talk openly with residents, both individually and at public meetings and find their views of what they would like to see achieved in the village.
Ensure that community groups are run by democratically elected officers with full reporting and accountability back to their members. Also, for them to give regular reports to the Parish Council.
Encourage feedback from residents on issues that concern them.
Try to combat apathy by demonstrating that the Parish Council does have influence in local government and can make a positive difference to residents’ wellbeing and lives.
Citizenship - Objectives
Promote collective action and community spirit and unity.
Make sure councillors and parishioners are well informed
Participate in Community groups and activities.
Encourage care of neighbours particularly those who might be alone, disadvantaged or need help
How can this be implemented?
1. Develop a Community Engagement Strategy
2. Encourage and support the formation of local groups
3. Help identify and assist groups with their fundraising.
4. Support residents when issues arise with local authorities
5. Encourage residents to work together to solve problems in the village.
6. Facility access to EKPC through media outlets to broaden the appeal of the Parish Council.
7. Share information
25th September 2019