What is a parish council?

There are over 8,700 parish and town councils representing around 16 million people across England. They form the most local level of government and cover many rural and urban areas.

How does it make decisions?

The parish council is made up of a number of councillors who meet regularly to make decisions on the work and direction of the council. Attending a council meeting is the best way to find out what it does.

Where does it get its money from?

Each year the Parish Council asks for a sum of money, called a ‘precept’, which is collected through your council tax.  This money is used by the Parish Council to improve facilities and services for local people and run the Council. Parish Councils can also apply for grants and loans.

Askham and Helton are in Cumbria and our local authority is Westmorland and Furness Council. We are also part of the Lake District National Park.

Next – What does the council do?