It’s time to get face-to-face with your council members again!

With the reintroduction of in person council meetings from 7th May, it can be a bit tricky figuring out where and how you want to meet.

There are still many councils who are worried about their ability to a provide suitable setting for covid safe meetings...

If that's you, we don't blame you! There’s a lot to consider when planning a safe face-to-face meeting post-pandemic. After all, you want everyone to feel comfortable and most importantly ensure you are following the guidelines.

If you want to make sure you’re prepared to hold a covid-safe council meeting, keep reading…

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When should we hold our annual meeting with the elections coming up?

The postponement of local elections in 2020 has prompted many local authorities to hold their annual meetings after the current legislation expires.

Best thing to do is to hold the face-to-face annual meeting after 17th May when a greater range of indoor activity can resume in line with the government’s roadmap.

If your council is not subject to elections, you may wish to hold your annual meeting before the deadline so that the meeting can be held virtually.

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How can I hold a covid-safe council meeting?

First and foremost, ensure social distancing measures are in place (this applies to all parts of your council building!). Look at redesigning the meeting if social distancing guidelines cannot be followed.

You also need to make sure that good hygiene measures are in place such as hand washing and surface washing.

Our insurance partners, BHIB have created this really useful checklist to help you prepare for covid-safe council meetings. Download here.

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Can members of the public join face-to-face council meetings yet?

Local councils still have a legal obligation to provide members of the public with access to most meetings, despite the new legislation coming into force.

However, the government strongly urges local authorities to continue to provide remote access for members of the public until 21st June when all restrictions on indoor gatherings have been lifted.

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Key Takeaways

Promise: feel prepared to host a covid-safe council meeting

Helpful Principles:

1. Holding annual meetings after 17th May once restrictions ease

2. Ensuring social distancing and hygiene measures are in place

3. Continuing to provide remote access to meetings for members of the public until 21st June.