THE QUALITY PARISH AND TOWN COUNCIL SCHEME

In its introduction it states that 'Quality status will equip Parish Councils to take on a stronger role in their communities and should be achievable by an Parish Council, regardless of its size, location or current activities'. It goes on to say 'Achieving quality parish status demonstrates that a council has met certain minimum standards expected from an effective, representative and active Parish Council'.

Edenbridge Town Council was the first Council in Kent to achieve this Charter Mark, since when we have seen success for Boxley PC, Sevenoaks TC, Hartley PC, Swanley TC, Cranbrook PC,  Ditton PC , Herne & Broomfield PC, Shoreham PC, Wingham PC, Broadstairs & St Peters TC, Folkestone TC,   Headcorn PC, Marden PC, Chestfield PC, Sturry PC, Stone PC, Detling PC, Hawkinge PC, St Nicholas at Wade & Sarre PC, and Westerham TC.  KALC is encouraged by the increasing takeup from Parish Councils and is hoping that many more Kent Councils will now decide to apply for this award. The following information is provided for those Councils interested in applying.

It was announced in September 2012 that the Quality Parish Scheme Steering Group is going to conduct a review of the Scheme.  It is anticipated that a new Scheme will be launched during 2013.

The Steering Group has agreed to freeze the Quality Parish status of those Councils whose current accreditation is due to end from 1st September 2012.  Once the scheme is re-launched those Councils who would have lapsed during the period of the freeze will be given at least 3 months in which to reaccredit.

Communication and Community Engagement Guide Note June 2008.pdf

Democracy and Citizenship Guide Note June 2008.pdf

Checklist for Meeting Quality Status Criteria 2011.doc
QPS Application Form.doc

Application Process

Council submits application and cheque payable to NALC to County Accreditation Panel (c/o KALC). (Council should retain a full copy of the application). Panel meets to consider application.

If approved - KALC sends application form and supporting papers to NALC, CAP notifies principal authorities and applicant and issues Certificate for use, and NALC advise DCLG/Defra of approved Quality Parish/Town Councils.

If denied - CAP notifies Council and outlines area for improvement, along with date for re-submission.

Application Fees

Councils with an actual gross income or expenditure (whichever is the higher) of less than £50,000 will be £50 (total £60 including VAT).

Councils with an actual gross income or expenditure (whichever is the higher) of between £50,000 and £100,000 will be £100 (total £120 including VAT).

Councils with an actual gross income or expenditure (whichever is the higher) of greater than £100,000 will be £200 (total £240).

For further details write to Terry Martin at 9 West Cliff Gardens, Folkestone, Kent CT20 1SP (e-mail kalc@btconnect.com) or telephone 01303-248252.