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The Northumberland Association of Local Councils is an organisation which represents the interests of Parish and Town Councils in Northumberland and Newcastle, whilst offering support, advice and training opportunities to its members.
Since 1947, the National Association of Local Councils (NALC) has been England's only recognised national membership organisation for community, neighbourhood, parish and town councils. We work with county associations to support, promote, improve and create sustainable councils.
10,000 parish and town councils in England represent 35 million people with 16 million electors, raising around £900 million in precept and investing over £2 billion in communities. Some of the largest councils have a precept of over £1 million a year. Around 100,000 councillors spend over 14 million hours a year serving those councils to help change their community. Over 300 new councils have been created in rural and urban areas in the last decade.
We believe these vibrant and dynamic parish and town councils are at the centre of community effort, delivering services and giving their communities a democratic voice.
Exclusive member benefits
As a member of NALC and your local county association, you unlock a wealth of resources and support designed to empower your council. Explore the many benefits available to you:
- Advocacy and campaigning — We provide national representation and champion parish and town councils at the highest levels of government. We run active campaigns and engage in advocacy efforts to influence policies that affect local communities.
- Expert advisory services — Legal, financial and HR support with access to top-tier advice tailored to your council’s needs. Benefit from a vast collection of documents and advisory notes.
- Events and networks — Join our popular monthly online event series on essential topics. Last year, 94% of attendees said our events met their expectations, with 95% recommending them. We run national networks for common interests and groups to foster engagement and facilitate support.
- Comprehensive publications — Access to practical resources on various topics, from governance and employment to finance and community planning. The Good Councillor's Guides series simplifies roles and responsibilities, making it easy to navigate your duties. Our case studies showcase successful examples of parish and town email: councils playing a key role in supporting their communities, from tackling climate change to navigating the cost of living.
- Media and crisis support — We assist with media coverage, public relations strategies and crisis management. Rely on our support to handle unexpected challenges effectively.
- Awards and recognition — The Star Council Awards celebrate outstanding contributions with prestigious awards at the House of Lords. The Local Council Award Scheme recognises excellence in various aspects of parish and town council work.
- Online learning and training — Enhance your skills with our short, dynamic online training courses designed for councillors, clerks, and council staff, tailored to provide practical knowledge immediately applicable to your role.
How can my Parish Council join and what are the membership fees
Becoming a member is straightforward - email Graeme Popay our Chief Officer who will be able to give you more information and a quote based upon the size of your Parish..
Graeme