Governance Toolkit … for Parish & Town Councils A useful resource for town and parish clerks. Produced in 2005 as a partnership between the National Association of Local Councils, the Society of Local Council Clerks, the Standards Board for England and the Association of Council Secretaries and Solicitors. The toolkit provides information on a range of issues including governance, roles and responsibilities, public engagement, managing information and elections. Contents Forward Part 1: Powers And Functions 1 Introduction 2 List of Parish Council Powers 3 A rough guide to who does what Part 2: The Parish Clerk 1 Roles and Responsibilities 2 Signposting on Employment Issues 3 Model Contract of Employment 4 Specimen Job Description Part 3: Ensuring Effective Governance 1 Introduction 2 Connecting with your community – Why good communication matters 3 Model Protocol on Communications 4 Governing Documents for Parish Councils 5 The Conduct of the Annual Town or Parish Meeting 6 Guidance on Gifts and Hospitality 7 Relationships between Councillors and Council Employees 8 Protocols on Bullying and Harassment 9 Guidance Notes on Whistle Blowing 10 The Complaints Procedure (including model procedure) Part 4: Public Engagement and Managing Information 1 Freedom of Information Act Guidance for Parish Councils 2 Guidance on Data Protection 3 Guidance on Health and Safety 4 Guidance on Defamation (Frequently Asked Questions) Click here to download a copy of the Governance Toolkit.