Under the Localism Act 2011 the council must adopt a code of conduct which sets out what is expected of members and co-opted members of parish councils. A councillor is subject to statutory rules about how they conduct themselves as a representative of the council.
On 28 April 2021 Slindon Parish Council adopted the code of its principal authority, Arun District Council.
The code of conduct is consistent with the seven principles which apply to standards of conduct for those in public life – selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.
Background to, and timeline of, events.
The Local Government Association (LGA) is providing this Model Member Code of Conduct for consultation as part of its work on supporting the sector to continue to aspire to high standards of leadership and performance.
The model Member Code of Conduct is now out for consultation (8 June – 17 August 2020) . It has been developed in collaboration with the sector and will be offered as a template for councils to adopt in whole and/or with local amendments. The LGA will undertake an annual review of the Code to ensure it continues to be fit-for-purpose, particularly with respect to advances in technology, social media and any relevant changes in legislation. Once finalised, the LGA will also offer support, training and mediation to councils and councillors on the application of the Code, whilst the National Association of Local Councils (NALC) and the county associations of local councils can offer advice and support to town and parish councils.
December 2020
A final version has now been approved by the LGA Board and circulated to local authorities and further information can be found on the LGA website.
Arun District Council approved its final version on 24.03.21 which was then adopted by Slindon Parish Council 28.04.21, providing a consistent approach across District and Parish Council.
