Potential new Isle of Wight town and parish councillors gathered in Newport this week to hear about the vital work our local councils do and how they can be the councillors of the future.
‘Parish Futures’ is a voluntary initiative, inspired by the work of the Island Doughnut Economics group, the IW Biosphere and Together For Mission Zero.
They are searching for the next generation of parish councillors who will be the guardians of their local communities whilst also looking to bring forward much needed change.
The largest volunteer task on the Island
Parish councils across the Isle of Wight are run by over 260 local councillors – the largest volunteer task on the Island. Collectively the 33 parishes will choose how to spend over £7 million in their communities in 2025/26.
The elections on 1st May 2025 will provide an exciting opportunity for more islanders to get involved – especially women, young people and those who do not usually feel that they can put themselves forward to be a councillor.
Discussing key priorities
Future councillors in attendance were encouraged to hear testimonies from a range of speakers including ecologist Ian Boyd, Julie Hutchison from IWALC, Sarah Redrup from Wootton Bridge Parish Council and Mayor of Sandown Alex Lightfoot, before breaking out into geographical groups to discuss key priorities and what is hoped to be achieved in the next few years.
A spokesperson said,
“We are growing a movement of passionate individuals committed to shaping the future of local governance. In the next few weeks we will be asking even more islanders to join us in promoting equality, opportunity, and positive change in every parish and community.
“We need common sense for the common good, a cause we share between generations. Together we can build a stronger, more representative community leadership which will serve the needs of all our citizens and our local environment.”
Find out more
The close of nominations is Wednesday 2nd April.
An online event for further details will be held on Tuesday 18th March (12.30pm).
You can find out more on the website.
News shared by Parish Futures. Ed
