Sidmouth Town Council invites residents to come and chat with their councillors
Sidmouth Town Council is warmly inviting residents to come along to a new series of informal drop in sessions where they can meet councillors, share their views and talk through ideas, concerns and local challenges in a relaxed and friendly setting.
The pilot scheme will give residents the chance to meet local Town and District Councillors on an informal one-to-one basis, making it easier to have open conversations outside the usual setting of council meetings. The Council feels it is important to be accessible and to give people the opportunity to share their experiences, ideas and concerns in an environment that is comfortable and welcoming.
These sessions will also give councillors a better chance to hear what matters most to local people, pick up on issues early and understand the priorities of different parts of the community. In turn, that can help the Council respond more effectively and keep local voices at the heart of decision-making.
Not everyone feels comfortable in a formal public meeting, and this scheme is designed to offer a simpler, more relaxed way to get involved.
The initiative will run initially as a six-month pilot. During that time, the Council will look at feedback, attendance and how useful the conversations have been. If the pilot is successful, the scheme could continue as a regular way for residents and councillors to stay in touch.
The first session is scheduled for Friday 29th May from 10 am to 12 pm and will be held in Sidmouth Library. The second session will be held on Friday 26th June at the Community Centre at Stowford.
Councillor Hilary Nelson, Chair of Sidmouth Town Council, said: “We hope these informal drop in sessions will make it easier for residents to talk to us, share their ideas and let us know what matters to them. We would love people to come along, have a chat and help us make Sidmouth even better for everyone.”