Governance and Risk

Members

Ian Parker
Paul Amans
Chris Lilly

Principle responsibilities

  • To ensure that policies and recommendations for the efficient management of the Mayfield and Five Ashes Parish Council in the area of Governance are effective.
  • The Committee is of Advisory status and will:
    • Meet as frequently as necessary, a minimum of once per year as summoned by the Clerk.
    • Consist of the Chairman in an ex officio role, the Vice Chairman and an additional two Councillors.
    • Be accountable to the Full Council.
    • Consult with advisors as necessary.

Terms of reference

1 Duties Of The Governance and Risk Committee

  • The Committee will ensure that adequate policies and procedures are in place.

2 Functions

  • The functions of Governance Committee are to:
    • Understand its statutory duties, powers, and subsequent legal obligations of a Parish Council.
    • Ensure that the Clerk has adequate processes to meet the above requirements
    • Ensure its councillors understand and observe the code of conduct, and employ and develop competent and suitably qualified staff and other resources to support the council’s activities and services.
    • Ensure that risk management is in place

3 Procedure for effective governance:

  • Clearly numbered resolutions which confirm delegations to other local authorities, committees, sub-committees and employees.
  • Maintenance of a Resolotion Register.
  • Clear written terms of reference for committees and sub-committees which evidence both the nature and extent of their powers and responsibilities.
  • Standing orders to regulate the transaction of council business, and the conduct and order of council, committee and sub-committee meetings.
  • Financial regulations.
  • Standing orders for entering into contracts for the supply of goods or materials or for the execution of works.
  • A code of conduct adopted by the council to be observed by all councillors (section of the Local Government Act 2000).
  • An organised and efficient committee and staffing structure which confirm respective responsibilities.
  • Publicised arrangements for access to information under the Freedom of Information Act 2000 and the Data Protection Act 1998.
  • A clear and accessible complaints procedure (which includes an appeal stage).
  • Clear and accurate minutes of meetings of the council, its committees and sub-committees.

4 Relations

  • The Clerk will attend all meetings of the Committee and will advise the Committee on relevant matters.
  • The Clerk will carry out all actions of the Committee and report progress on a regular basis.
  • The Clerk as RFO will carry out the financial policies of the Parish Council as they affect the Committee and the Full Council in accordance with the Standing Orders.