Overview

This course provides practical guidance for parish and town councils on how to be a responsible and effective employer. It covers the legal framework for employment, the council’s role as employer, and how to build a positive and professional working relationship with the clerk and any staff. 

You will explore governance structures, the distinction between councillor and officer roles, and how to avoid common pitfalls in managing staff. The session also highlights key employment policies, procedures, and recent changes in employment law. 

Using real-life scenarios and case studies, the course demonstrates the impact of poor employment practices and provides practical solutions to support compliant and effective council operations.

What you will learn

• The council’s responsibilities as an employer

• Key employment law requirements and documentation

• Roles and responsibilities of councillors and the clerk

• Good practice in member–officer relationships

• Essential employment policies and procedures

• How to manage staff effectively, including appraisals and training

• How to reduce risk and avoid common governance issues