Local Council Clerk Week aims to help raise the profile of this important profession and explain the the work clerks do on behalf of town, parish and community councils. Clerking is an important role, and clerks are often at the heart of their councils and communities, carrying out a number of roles to support their councils. Whether councils have a large staff team, or only have one employee, the clerk is critical to a range of tasks and ensuring they get done. This might include:
| Organising meetings and ensure they run smoothly | Inducting new councillors to help them with their role |
| Making sure the council is meeting its legal obligations | Providing advice to the council to help them make informed decisions |
| Liaising with principal councils and other organisations | Researching planning issues |
| Writing correspondence on behalf of the council | Overseeing the council’s community engagement and raising your profile |
| Applying for grants and administering grants made by the council | Managing community buildings or other assets |
| Overseeing the council’s finances | Planning public events |
| Getting involved with volunteering | Co-ordinating efforts during a crisis |
This shows what a wide range of responsibilities a clerk has, and what a varied role it can be. Learning how to manage of all of this, while staying up to date with changes to legislation, and current issues, can be very hard work. Devon is lucky to have so many clerks working so hard for their councils!
We look forward to our Clerks Summer Socials all year, which provide a chance for clerks across Devon to come together for a cream tea and a chat. Organised in partnership with the SLCC Devon Branch, we have four events taking place throughout the summer and across the county providing an ideal opportunity to meet nearby clerks as well as your officers from DALC and the SLCC.
Read more about the Clerks Summer Socials here, and book your place!
The Certificate in Local Council Administration (CiLCA) is the professional qualification for clerks. While CiLCA is administered by the SLCC, DALC has Recognised CiLCA Trainers. Have a look here for details of our CiLCA Support Programme and how it can support a clerk getting qualified!