Who we Are
Westonbirt with Lasborough Parish Council is a locally elected body of 5 Councillors, who act as a voice for the community and help to channel any community concerns regarding major developments or other issues to the correct authorities.
As the democratic, representative voice of the parish, our main goals are:
- To be responsive to the needs of the community and support community engagement
- To support sustainable development of the local environment
- To be accountable in all our council activities
The council typically meets quarterly, with an additional annual meeting in May. Councillors may also represent the council on various outside bodies and local community groups.
Community Engagement Strategy
Westonbirt with Lasborough Parish Council is committed to working with the community to provide a high level of services and amenities within the village.
It recognises the need to ensure that all members of the community are involved and will seek ways to engage with everyone, encourage everyone to participate fully in the decision-making process, and commit to listening to what is said and act on feedback. The council will ensure it keeps everyone informed of the activities and local issues.
Principles
The council’s approach to community engagement is based on the following principles:
- Openness and transparency in decision-making
- Two-way communication, listening as well as informing
- Inclusivity, ensuring engagement is accessible where reasonably practicable
- Proportionality, using engagement methods appropriate to the issue
How the Council Engages with the Community
The council uses a range of methods to engage with the community, which may include:
- The Annual Parish Meeting
- Public participation at parish council meetings
- The council website
- Community surveys and questionnaires (including neighbourhood planning consultations)
- Consultation on planning and neighbourhood planning matters
- Community events, meetings and working groups
- Correspondence from residents and community organisations
The council publishes information to support openness and engagement, including agendas, minutes, meeting dates, policies, notices and news items on its website, in accordance with statutory requirements. This enables residents to understand the council’s work and to participate in local democracy.
Using Community Feedback
Feedback gathered through community engagement will be considered by the council when making decisions and setting priorities. Where appropriate, community views will help inform the council’s action plan, policies and budget setting.
The council will seek to explain decisions taken and how community feedback has been considered. Where appropriate, this will be reported through council meetings, publications or the council’s website.
Promoting Local Democracy
The council will support and encourage participation in local democracy by:
- Promoting attendance at council meetings and the Annual Parish Meeting
- Publicising elections and vacancies
- Providing clear information on how residents can contact the council and engage with its work