c. The importance of teamwork

The most effective councils are those with a climate of mutual respect.  This means there are effective partnerships between the chair or mayor, clerk/officers to the council and the councillors.  This is built on understanding the key roles and responsibilities of all those involved, for example:

 the clerk is the 'Proper Officer' under the Local Government Act 1972 and they and any other officers are employees of the council.  The clerk administers the affairs of the council which includes advising on policy matters and guidance on procedural issues.  They also ensure decisions are conducted according to the relevant rules, regulations and procedures.

 no councillor may require the clerk to carry out any duty or function that does not have the sanction of the full council.  Although usually the chair or mayor give some support to the clerk, they have no legal right to give any other directions.  The chair or mayor or councillors should not take any responsibility for administrative, managerial or supervisory tasks.  This is the role of the clerk.

Whether your council employs a single member of staff for a few hours a week or you are a larger council with a team of individuals, good employment practice from recruitment through to support and development is key to achieving the best outcomes for your community.  It is important that the whole councils is aware and understands its role and responsibilities as an employer.