Community Councils are the most local tier of statutory representation in Scotland ( i.e. their purpose is set out in law) .
- They bridge the gap between local authorities and communities.
- They help to make public bodies, such as the Council, aware of the opinions and needs of the communities they represent.
- Their main purpose is to be representative of their local community, gather community opinion, and share the views of the community with the local authority and other public bodies.
- Many Community Councils also involve themselves in a wide range of other activities including fundraising, organising community events, undertaking environmental, educational and arts projects and other activities that engage the general public.
- They should actively consult and engage with local people.
In North Ayrshire, Community Councils have another role to play as members of the Locality Planning Partnerships. The chair of each Community Council is invited to sit on the Partnership to represent their Communities. Community Councils are involved at the heart of Locality Partnerships to help make sure that the priorities and work of Community Planning Partners, Community Councils and the Community are right for their local area and everyone is working to achieve the same goals.
Community Councils members are elected and anyone who is aged 16 or over and lives locally can stand for election. If you would like to know more about this or think that you might like to be involved please Contact us.