Unlock Savings Success for Your Local Council

Join our exclusive educational webinar delivered by Hinckley & Rugby Building Society. Designed specifically with Local Councils in mind, this session will provide practical advice on how local councils can save funds effectively with confidence.

What You’ll Learn:

• Decode key terms and phrases
• Understand different types of savings accounts and their suitability
• Discover the difference between savings vs. investments
• Learn the benefits of shopping around
• Why and how to spread funds across organisations
• Explore account security & restrictions
• Tips on managing accounts effectively
• Determine who needs access and avoid common pain points

Join our Connect Event on 7 November, bringing together local councils and stakeholders to explore the solutions to Devon’s housing crisis.

Recommended for:

Councillors and officers with an interest in Devon’s housing crisis.

What are Connect Events?

‘Connect Events’ are one the many ways in which DALC supports its member councils.  The aims of the events are to connect councils to information, stakeholders, resources, as well as the wider network of councils in Devon, to help support councils to work effectively in their communities.

Connect Events cover a wide range of topics, usually with a focus on public services and policy, and fostering collaborative relationships with others. They are free to attend, normally held online, and open to councillors and officers to attend.

Join us for a critical discussion on Devon’s housing challenges, focusing on the findings of the Devon Housing Commission’s latest report. With Devon facing a severe shortage of affordable homes, this event will explore the commission’s key recommendations aimed at driving change.

We will be joined by Matt Dodd, Head of the Devon Housing Commission at Exeter University, who will share key findings from their research conducted between 2023 and 2024, along with recommendations to influence housing policy, as well as practical solutions for addressing the broken housing market in Devon.

We will also be joined by the Chair of the Devon Housing Taskforce, Cllr Mandy Ewings, who will provide insights into how local authorities are responding to these recommendations. The event will shed light on the pressures our councils and communities face, and equip attendees with knowledge on current housing strategies.

Furthermore, this is not just a webinar – its a chance to engage, ask questions, and share your thoughts.  Participate in discussion to connect with other councillors and officers facing similar challenges in their parishes, and explore how parish councils can be part of the solution.

Event aims:

• Understand Devon’s housing crisis, its impact, and the need for policy change.
• Explore actionable recommendations from the Devon Housing Commission report.
• Hear directly from the Devon Housing Taskforce on local responses and future actions.
• Discuss and explore how all tiers of local government can collaborate to achieve the change that’s needed.

Who should attend? This session is for councillors and officers who want to better understand Devon’s housing crisis, and the actions needed to create significant change for the benefit of our communities.,

Cara Stobart, DALC County Officer, says “Housing has consistently been one of the most important issues raised by our members, with councils across Devon highlighting the severe impacts on their communities. We are delighted to host this event and share the important work being done to address this challenge. It’s a great opportunity for councils to learn, connect, and contribute to the solutions that Devon desperately needs.”

Don’t miss this chance to engage in the conversation for one of Devon’s most pressing issues!

Join us in our concluding highways themed session which will shed light on the highways department’s role as a consultee in the development management process.

Recommended for:

Councillors and officers with an interest in understanding the highways department’s role in the planning system, and working more effectively with the highways team at Devon County Council.

What are Connect Events?

‘Connect Events’ are one the many ways in which DALC supports its member councils.  The aims of the events are to connect councils to information, stakeholders, resources, as well as the wider network of councils in Devon, to help support councils to work effectively in their communities.

Connect Events cover a wide range of topics, usually with a focus on public services and policy, and fostering collaborative relationships with others. They are free to attend, normally held online, and open to councillors and officers to attend.

Led by Devon County Council highways team, this session will offer parish councils valuable insights into the importance of understanding the highways department’s role in the planning process. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of how highways considerations are integrated into the development management process, including the assessment of transportation impacts, access arrangements, and highway infrastructure requirements which may link to s106 agreements.

Attending this session is particularly useful for parish councils as it provides essential knowledge and insights that can inform decision-making processes related to local planning applications and developments. Understanding the highways department’s role as a consultee empowers parish councils to engage more effectively in the planning process, ensuring that highways considerations are adequately addressed and integrated into development proposals.

“DALC recognises the significance of highways considerations in the planning process and the importance of parish councils being informed and engaged stakeholders. This event provides an invaluable opportunity for parish councils to gain insights into the highways department’s role and approach as a consultee,” says Cara Stobart, County Officer.

Don’t miss this final session of our highways themed Connect Event series, where you’ll gain essential knowledge and insights into highways and the planning system. Mark your calendars for April 3rd and join us online for another informative session.

Join us as we delve into the topic of funding for our highway’s infrastructure and invaluable insight onto how investment decisions are made.

Recommended for:

Councillors and officers with an interest in understanding how investment decisions are made and what influences decision-making, and working more effectively with the highways team at Devon County Council.

What are Connect Events?

‘Connect Events’ are one the many ways in which DALC supports its member councils.  The aims of the events are to connect councils to information, stakeholders, resources, as well as the wider network of councils in Devon, to help support councils to work effectively in their communities.

Connect Events cover a wide range of topics, usually with a focus on public services and policy, and fostering collaborative relationships with others. They are free to attend, normally held online, and open to councillors and officers to attend.

The session will also shed light on various government funds available for highways infrastructure projects, offering clarity on the funding mechanisms and eligibility criteria. Participants will receive a reality check on the extent to which funding meets the growing demands of maintaining and improving Devon’s extensive highways network, including addressing the rising backlog of works required.

“DALC recognises the paramount importance of investment in highways infrastructure for the well-being of our communities. This event serves as an opportunity for parish councils to gain a deeper understanding of the investment landscape and its implications for local infrastructure,” says Cara Stobart, County Officer.

Don’t miss this chance to engage directly with the highways team, explore the realities of investment in highways infrastructure, and advocate for the needs of your community. Mark your calendars for 6 February and join us online for an enlightening discussion.

You may also be interested in:

• Connect Event: Highways and the planning system – 3 April 2025

Join us on the 18th October for our third instalment of our highways themed events, which promises an insightful exploration into the critical topic of road maintenance.

Recommended for:

Councillors and officers with an interest in understanding highways asset management, and working more effectively with the highways team at Devon County Council.

What are Connect Events?

‘Connect Events’ are one the many ways in which DALC supports its member councils.  The aims of the events are to connect councils to information, stakeholders, resources, as well as the wider network of councils in Devon, to help support councils to work effectively in their communities.

Connect Events cover a wide range of topics, usually with a focus on public services and policy, and fostering collaborative relationships with others. They are free to attend, normally held online, and open to councillors and officers to attend.

During this illuminating session, participants will embark on a deep dive into asset management, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the strategies and methodologies employed to ensure the optimal upkeep of Devon’s road network. An overview of Devon’s road conditions will shed light on the various factors influencing their maintenance, providing invaluable insights into the challenges and considerations faced by the DCC highways team.

Furthermore, attendees will receive an in-depth explanation of pothole severity and road conditions, accompanied by a detailed examination of the types of interventions undertaken and the rationale behind them. Insights into resources and budget allocations will offer a holistic view of the financial landscape driving road maintenance efforts.

Cara Stobart, DALC County Officer says “We are thrilled to host this event, where we delve into the intricacies of road maintenance alongside the DCC highways team. Understanding the complexities behind maintaining our roads is crucial for parish and town councils as we build stronger working relationships with the highways department”.

Don’t miss this opportunity to gain invaluable knowledge about the maintenance of our roadways. Mark your calendars for October 18th and join us online for an enriching session.

Click here to register your place

You may also be interested in:

• Connect Event: An insight into roadworks – 5 December 2024
• Connect Event: Highways investment unveiled – 6 February 2025
• Connect Event: Highways and the planning system – 3 April 2025

Join us on 15 August for our second instalment, where will introduce a range of community self-help schemes to support your local highways management.

Recommended for:

Councillors and officers with an interest in understanding self-help highways schemes, and working more effectively with the highways team at Devon County Council.

What are Connect Events?

‘Connect Events’ are one the many ways in which DALC supports its member councils.  The aims of the events are to connect councils to information, stakeholders, resources, as well as the wider network of councils in Devon, to help support councils to work effectively in their communities.

Connect Events cover a wide range of topics, usually with a focus on public services and policy, and fostering collaborative relationships with others. They are free to attend, normally held online, and open to councillors and officers to attend.

This session will spotlight four initiatives:

• Road Warden Scheme: Empowering town and parish councils to take charge of minor works on the highway, the Road Warden Scheme is a game-changer in local governance. Participants will discover how this scheme facilitates swift and efficient execution of essential tasks, ensuring the upkeep and enhancement of our road networks.
• Community Self-Help: Delve into the realm of community-driven infrastructure improvements as we explore the Community Self-Help program. Designed to enable communities to undertake minor works in or around the highway, even requiring road closures or traffic management, this scheme embodies the spirit of collaboration and proactive engagement.
• Parish Paths Partnership: Unveil the potential of the Parish Paths Partnership that empowers communities to undertake rights of way work. Learn how this initiative fosters a sense of ownership and stewardship over local pathways, enhancing accessibility and connectivity within our neighbourhoods.
• Snow Warden Program: Prepare for the winter months with insights into the Snow Warden Program. Discover how dedicated volunteers play a crucial role in delivering winter maintenance support, from clearing snow to spreading grit, ensuring safer travel conditions for all.

Cara Stobart, DALC County Officer says “DALC recognises the significant challenges and financial pressures Devon County Council faces in delivering crucial highways services.  The reality for many communities is that minor works may take longer to resolve than once was possible – and this sometimes has a negative impact on our communities.

“However, for those councils that are interested, there are opportunities to step up as proactive partners, to help maintain and improve local highways infrastructure.  We are delighted to be hosting this event with DCC’s Highways Team to help councils understand the opportunities available”.

Mark your calendars and join us on August 15th to explore the possibilities of community-driven action to support our highways infrastructure.

This is a free event, and open to councillors and officers.

You may also be interested in:

• Connect Event: Understanding road maintenance – 18 October 2024
• Connect Event: An insight into roadworks – 5 December 2024
• Connect Event: Highways investment unveiled – 6 February 2025
• Connect Event: Highways and the planning system – 3 April 2025

Join us on 5 June, as we delve into the intricate workings of the Highways functions of Devon County Council.

Recommended for:

Councillors and officers with an interest in understanding highways matters, and working more effectively with the highways team at Devon County Council.

What are Connect Events?

‘Connect Events’ are one the many ways in which DALC supports its member councils.  The aims of the events are to connect councils to information, stakeholders, resources, as well as the wider network of councils in Devon, to help support councils to work effectively in their communities.

Connect Events cover a wide range of topics, usually with a focus on public services and policy, and fostering collaborative relationships with others. They are free to attend, normally held online, and open to councillors and officers to attend.

This online session aims to provide parish and town councils with invaluable insights into the roles and responsibilities of the Highways department, to fostering stronger collaborative relationships.

During this interactive session, participants will gain a comprehensive overview of the Highways department and its multifaceted functions. The differences between officer functions and councillor (policy) functions will be explained, offering clarity on decision-making processes within the department.

A focal point of the event will be the role of the Neighbourhood Highways Officer, a pivotal figure in local infrastructure management. Understanding the duties and responsibilities of this role is essential for effective communication and problem-solving within communities.

Furthermore, participants will be guided on how to navigate online reporting tools to efficiently report issues and contact the Highways department. Empowering councils with the knowledge and tools to streamline communication ensures that community concerns are addressed promptly and effectively.

Cara Stobart, DALC County Officer says “Our members’ frustrations with Devon’s roads and highways have been plain to see.  Whilst the quality of relationships between DCC and parishes varies enormously across the Devon, we cannot ignore there are some significant grievances regarding highways matters in some areas”.

“It is critical therefore that we foster strong, positive relationships between DCC and our towns and parishes. We are delighted to be hosting this event, which serves as an opportunity to build bridges and foster greater understanding, as well as empowering our members with knowledge and the communication channels needed to work effectively with the Highways team”.

Join us on the 5th June, to connect, learn, and strengthen relationships.

This is a free event, and open to councillors and officers.

What is in the Devolution Deal, and why will it benefit Devon’s Communities?

Government has published proposals for a ground-breaking Devolution Deal for Devon and Torbay which will transfer of range of powers and funding from national to local government control.

Within the deal, there are opportunities to work towards a range of benefits for Devon’s communities, including but not limited to, addressing the shortage of affordable housing, investment in skills and local businesses, and improved public transport.

To deliver a deal, a new Combined County Authority will be created. This will provide joint governance between Devon County Council and Torbay Council, and enable local decision-making to take place, rather than at Westminster.

A public consultation is underway between 12 February and 24 March, seeking your views on the proposal to create a Combined County Authority for Devon and Torbay.

To aid Parish and Town Councils understanding of the Devolution Deal, and how it will benefit our communities, we are delighted to be welcoming Devon County Council who will explain what powers and funding are included in the deal, and how the deal will be governed through a new Combined County Authority.

You will have opportunities to ask questions and share your views. We encourage as many parish and town councils as possible to take part, and your engagement will help inform DALC’s own response to the consultation.

Read more about the Devolution Deal for Devon and Torbay

This is a free online event, open to councillors and officers.

Register for the meeting here.  

If you are unable to attend this event, other events in your area may be available, please contact devontorbaydeal@torbay.gov.uk with details of your location and they will let you know about other events that may be available in your area.