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Discover the inspiring stories of Cllr. Kellie Hinton, Mayor of Henley-on-Thames, and Cllr. Davide Eggleton, a dedicated young councillor. Learn about the common misconceptions surrounding town and parish councils and find out how these councillors challenge the status quo. Gain insights on community-focused approaches, transparency, and the importance of diverse skillsets in local government.
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Unusual Suspects Cllr Kellie hinton – Mayor of Henley-on-thames NALC – Young councillor of the year Consort – Cllr davideggleton
Getting into local politics • 25 years old • New mother – not working • Personal difficulties • YMCA connection
Staying in local politics • 32 years old • Working 30 hours a week • Chair of Henley in Bloom • YMCA Trustee
What do a lot/most people think about their town or parish council? • What do a lot/most people think about their councillors? • What do people think about being a councillor? • What do we think about councillors? Retired Too much hard work Overpaid Out of touch Caring Stale Backhanders Unapproachable Clever Old people Rich NIMBYs Upper class Political Community- minded Boring
Looking Outward Looking Inward • Recognise weaknesses in the council • Move with the times • Honesty and transparency • Engagement and visibility • Focus on community, not politics • Don’t get comfortable • Putting your head above the parapet does not mean you can sit on a pedestal! • Don’t be a snob • Look in unusual places • Look for potential as well as experience • Don’t oversell or undersell the commitment • Look for varied skillsets – town and parish councils don’t just need lawyers, accountants, business owners and other similar professionals.
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Thank you Twitter: @henleymayor1 and @kezoline Email: kellie@thehintons.me