It’s a breath of fresh air to have a government take our role seriously and value councillors’ work – sometimes, anyway!
On behalf of the Liberal Democrat local government family, I was delighted to back the Local Government Chronicle’s (LGC’s) new ‘Councillors for the 21st Century’ campaign.
While the campaign calls on the Government to take action to make it easier for people of all ages and backgrounds to stand as councillors, to ensure the role attracts and retains high-quality candidates, the campaign should also focus on our political parties, to ensure they step up to this challenge
It was great to hear the Government pledge to restore access to pensions for councillors. But we also need action on proper parental-leave support for members – and, dare I say it, a major review of the system of payment and support to councillors. Especially with a wave of new unitary authorities coming down the tracks at us because of local government reorganisation.
Additionally, we need a major campaign to improve understanding and respect from employers and the public about the role of local councillors – a bit like the recruitment campaign the LGA is leading on, raising the profile of councils and the benefits of working for them.
I am constantly amazed by the tireless dedication most councillors show to their communities and inspired by the difference they make to their places every day.
Councillors are the backbone of our democracy, but too often do not get the respect they deserve.
You only have to read LGC or the Municipal Journal to see stories of councillors standing down because of online and offline abuse – or because the system of allowances makes it impossible to combine the role with work and family.
This needs to change so councillors’ relationships with government and the public are based on mutual respect and empowering communities.