How the Parish Council operates

When a person has been elected as a Councillor they are never a member of the general public in relation to any matter before the Council. Although this means they lose certain privileges available to the general public, that is the consequence of holding public office. This situation continues at all times until the Councillor ceases to be a member of Council.

Discussion in Council meetings is unbiased with every opportunity provided for the expression of alternative views.

Agenda items are submitted to the clerk before the meeting otherwise they may be brought up as “Any Other Business”.

Minutes of the meeting are prepared in draft for attendees to review before they are published on the Thixendale website under “Parish Council”. The minutes provide a brief account of the subject or problem under discussion, alternative approaches to resolve it and a decision reached by the council on next steps. A member of the council will agree to progress the follow up actions.

Legal Compliance

Our Parish Council operates in accordance with UK local government legislation including:

• Local government Act 1972 – sets out powers and duties of parish councils

• Transparency Code for Smaller Authorities – we publish key information including financial records, budgets and minutes

• Data Protection Act 2018 & UK GDPR – we ensure proper handling and protection of personal data

• Freedom of Information Act 2000 – we are committed to openness and will provide access to information upon request

• Localism Act 2011 – councillors adhere to the Code of Conduct and register any interests.

We also follow the guidance of the National Association of Local Councils (NALC)