Mrs Sandy Visick

The role of the Clerk as the proper financial officer of the council. Trusted, professional and responsible in ensuring that the council is run efficiently in accordance with the law. The Clerk offers independent advice and guidance on matters of law and procedures. Making sure the council is well advised before making a decision on any matter. The clerk does not have a vote at the council meeting.

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The responsibilities of the Clerk is to administer council documents which include:

• Setting agenda
• Taking and typing up minutes
• Manage and insure assets
• Managing planning applications
• Corresponding to the public
• Implementing the council’s decisions
• Supervising staff
• Setting the precept for discussion
• Overseeing the implementation of current and future projects
• First point of call for the public
• Reporting to the media of developments within the council
• Retaining legal documents
• Checking election procedures for election years
• Ensuring register of interest are up to date
• Reviewing insurance cover
• Attending training courses to continue with personal development
• Organising training for councillors
• Informing councillors of new policies and local government news
• Scan for available funding for projects within the parish and supporting grant application processes
• Issuing summons to the councillors for their attendance to meetings.

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The role of the responsible finance officer usually the clerk and would hold a separate job description. Responsible Finance Officer must ensure that the account and records are maintained and regulated and in accordance with proper practices.

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The responsibility of the responsible finance officer to report and advice on financial activities and prepare end of year accounts to include a brief report. An accounting system must be in place to ensure accurate recordings of financial transactions. Make certain the council does not take any unnecessary risks with public money. The RFO is also responsible for drawing cheques which must be signed by two councillors and that the accounts are presented for internal audit. Once the annual return is satisfactorily complete and signed by the Chair and RFO is sent to the external auditor for inspection. The RFO will ensure the councils assets and liabilities are adequately insured. To be responsible for monthly financial book keeping, administering PAYE and NI when necessary, calculate and claiming all VAT due to the council. Review financial regulations annually, record and minute. Computer facilities to be backed up to safeguard council documents. Make available to the councillors a copy of the Governance and Accountability 2014.