Summary

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To summarise then, the work of community councils varies from council to council, as does the method of operation. Some community councils have demonstrated a great deal of imagination in interpreting their role in the community, carrying out tasks such as:

• environmental projects
• organising local galas
• printing and distributing local newsletters
• representing community councils on other organisations
• providing lunch clubs for the elderly
• organising after school clubs
• campaigning on local issues
• conducting local surveys.

It should not be forgotten, however, that the main purpose of your community council is to represent the views of your community. Actions on potholes, roadsigns, Christmas lights and such matters can give people a sense of community and of pride in their immediate environment. And even if your community council chooses to confine itself to this role alone, it will still be achieving a great deal for the community.

Given the broad legislative remit of community councils, the scope for their future development is very great indeed. The reorganisations of local government brought with it an even more significant role for community councils as the elected body closest to the local community.