The resulting Charter deals with how Kirklees and all the Parish and Town Councils aim to work together, but for councils achieving Quality Council status, it has particular significance. It opens the door to an enhanced role for these councils, in which a wide range of functions, duties and services can be considered for delegation to them.

It also sets out the financial arrangements between the parties, designed to ensure best value for council taxpayers and the avoidance of dual taxation. Where responsibility is delegated, the relevant finance will follow it into the budget of the town or parish council.

Overall, the Quality Town and Parish Council Scheme aims to refresh and enhance local democracy by placing increased emphasis on local leadership and the involvement of local people. It offers a great opportunity to re-establish the credibility, openness and accountability of these councils. It requires them to meet national minimum standards in member and officer conduct, to communicate, consult with and involve all parts of their community, and to work in partnership with local authorities and other agencies to deliver the best deals for the community.

Meeting these standards has required major changes and new initiatives for many parish councils, including our own in the Holme Valley.  However, in return, our Council can now plan for a new future, as a major partner in a network of local groups, working together to improve the quality of life in the Holme Valley.

The Charter offers a means of decentralising services and empowering local people. Quality Council status will assure the people of the Holme Valley that their Parish Council has been independently assessed and approved as being a fit and proper partner in this process. This is an opportunity for progress that neither the Council nor the community can afford to ignore.