Involving and listening to people is at the heart of everything we do in South Tyneside. It is central to achieving our overall vision of a better future for South Tyneside's people.
Without it we cannot respond to the issues that are important to our communities and it is key to providing excellent services that reflect the needs and wishes of local communities.
South Tyneside has been recognised by the government as one of the best councils in the country for the role of its elected members as community champions.
Neighbourhood and Community Champions – the role of elected members
Elected members should act as powerful advocates for their ward; making a difference in their locality by effectively influencing the policies and decisions affecting the area itself and services delivered to local people.
Local authorities can create an environment where this is a reality by working in partnership with members, communities and service providers.
Councils can facilitate a more effective contribution from elected members, which, in turn, would lead to services and decisions that better reflect local needs by providing support such as:
- An effective administrative framework
- Dedicated officer support
- Good information and research services
- A commitment to capacity building
Continual improvement requires strong and effective leadership.
A Beacon council, with its elected members, will provide a focal point for the development of a vision for the future of an area that responds to local people’s priorities and brings together public agencies and key stakeholders to achieve it.
