SLCC & OVW Joint Event Agenda 2024

The benefits of using the Finance and Governance Self-Assessment Toolkit
Kevin Griffiths, Lead in Welsh Government for local government partnerships and community and town councils

This session will discuss practical evidence and experience of the positive impact of using the Finance and Governance Toolkit in community and town councils.

Democratic Health in Community and Town Councils
Dr Leah Hibbs

This presentation will outline the findings, conclusions, and proposed options for action from the work undertaken by the Ministerial Task and Finish Group on Democratic Health and Diversity of Town and Community Councils. Based on evidence, previous literature, and primary research with stakeholders (including the general public, young people, councillors and clerks, and the third sector), the presentation explores the issues around engagement, awareness, political knowledge of CTCs, diversity, and culture, as well as barriers to participation for prospective councillors and collaborators. Proposed options and solutions are discussed, offering different roadmaps to improvement.

The Work of the One Voice Wales: Cost of Living Crisis Support Team
Emma Goode, Cost of Living Crisis Project Manager

In this session, we will explore the critical role of community and town councils in addressing the ongoing cost of living crisis in Wales.  An overview of the resources, guidance, and support we offer to councils, enabling them to effectively assist their communities through these challenging times. The session will highlight: Supporting Local Councils: An overview of how we empower councils to address cost of living crisis challenges such as fuel poverty, food insecurity, and wellbeing, within their communities. Providing Guidance and Resources: Insights into the information, webinars, and national schemes we signpost to help councils implement effective interventions. Fostering Collaboration: Discussion on the opportunities we create for councils to collaborate and share best practices, ensuring a cohesive response across Wales. Best Practices and Case Studies: We will showcase some successful initiatives from across Wales, demonstrating how councils are tackling challenges such as fuel poverty, food insecurity, and financial wellbeing. These case studies serve as models for replication and inspire further local action.

The Work of the WLGA and Joint Working With One Voice Wales
Paula Walters, Interim Head of Corporate Policy and Services, Welsh Local Government Association

This presentation will provide an overview of the work of the WLGA, including a snapshot of the Association’s priorities as set out in the Corporate Strategy for 2023-27.  It will also summarise the revised Memorandum of Understanding which was launched at the One Voice Wales Annual Conference in October 2024, which includes agreed principles for how the organisations will work together and areas of joint working for 2024-26