What can you expect from your Councillors?
The ‘Nolan principles’ are the basis of the ethical standards expected of public office holders. These principles are:
- Selflessness
Holders of public office should act solely in terms of the public interest. They should not do so in order to gain financial or other benefits for themselves, their family or their friends. - Integrity
Holders of public office should not place themselves under any financial or other obligation to outside individuals or organisations that might seek to influence them in the performance of their official duties. - Objectivity
In carrying out public business, including making public appointments, awarding contracts, or recommending individuals for rewards and benefits, holders of public office should make choices on merit. - Accountability
Holders of public office are accountable for their decisions and actions to the public and must submit themselves to whatever scrutiny is appropriate to their office. - Openness
Holders of public office should be as open as possible about all the decisions and actions that they take. They should give reasons for their decisions and restrict information only when the wider public interest clearly demands. - Honesty
Holders of public office have a duty to declare any private interests relating to their public duties and to take steps to resolve any conflicts arising in a way that protects the public interest. - Leadership
Holders of public office should promote and support these principles by leadership and example.
Councillors also follow Looe Town Council’s Code of Conduct.
A Councillor’s primary role is to represent their ward or division and the people who live in it. Councillors provide a bridge between the community and the council.
As well as being an advocate for local residents and signposting them to the right people they need to keep them informed about issues that affect them.
In order to understand and represent local views and priorities, Councillors need to build strong relationships and encourage local people to make their views known.
This includes:
- Responding to their queries and investigate their concerns (casework)
- Communicating council decisions that affect them
- Knowing their patch and be aware of any problems
- Knowing and working with representatives of local organisations, interest groups and businesses
- Representing their views at council meetings
- Leading local campaigns on their behalf
