Thank you for contacting me about support for parish and town councils.
I appreciate the important and tireless efforts undertaken by parish councillors across the country, not least during the difficulties of the pandemic.
Parish and town councils have a valuable role to play in improving community wellbeing and representing local voices. They also provide a structure for local people to take community action. From supporting community centres and play areas to helping stamp out graffiti and litter, the work of parish and town councils helps to improve neighbourhoods and bring communities together.
Parish and town councils are primarily funded by the council tax precept. They may also receive funding from a district or county council to take on responsibility for delivering a particular service.
It may interest you to know that the Government plans to work on a new approach to community empowerment and intends to launch a Review of Neighbourhood Governance in England. This will include reviewing the role and functions of parish councils in England, with a view of making them easier and quicker to establish. I know that the Government plans to engage with communities and representative bodies throughout this review.
I fully support ministers in their efforts to make it easier for local people and community groups to come together and shape the future of their neighbourhoods.
Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.