Clerk Workload & Wellbing
Clerk hours must match workload. Councils should routinely check whether the clerk’s responsibilities, deadlines and peaks (elections, AGAR, planning surges, community events) can realistically be delivered within contracted hours.
5-Point Clerk Workload Check
▢ My contracted hours are sufficient for my core duties
▢ I can meet statutory deadlines without excessive overtime
▢ I have protected time for planning, projects and admin
▢ Workload spikes are managed, not constant
▢ I have regular check-ins with my Chair/line manager
Resources
Councillor Workload & Wellbing
Councillors often take on too much: too many committees, unclear roles, unrealistic community expectations, or doing operational tasks. Councillor wellbeing matters too.
5-Point Councillor Workload Check
▢ I understand my role and limits (strategic, not operational)
▢ My committee/workload commitments are manageable
▢ I do not feel pressured to handle issues outside meetings
▢ I receive the training I need to be confident
▢ I feel meetings are well-chaired, respectful and productive
Resources
Staffing & Community Capacity
Councils need enough people — officers, councillors, volunteers, and working group members — to deliver their plans. If capacity is thin, councils should prioritise, simplify, or bring in additional support.
5-Point Capacity Check
▢ Our staffing levels match our current workload
▢ We can carry out core services safely and reliably
▢ We can meet statutory deadlines without strain
▢ We use working groups or non-councillors when needed
▢ We do not take on new services without checking people-capacity first
Resources
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NALC Advice Note: Use of non-councillors on committees