Purpose

To
endorse the approach to working with communities in 2026 and 2027.

To
approve a Statement of Reasonable Expectations with Town Councils

Content

(a)   
That the Community Conversations approach
outlined in the report to Cabinet of 3 March 2026, which supported how we work with
communities to deliver the Council Plan objectives, be approved and prepared
for the English Devolution and Community Empowerment legislation.

 

(b)   
That the revised Statement of Reasonable
Expectations between Dorset Council and parish and town councils be signed by
the Leader of Dorset Council and adopted.

 

Reason for the decision

 

To enable Dorset Council to strengthen partnership working
with town and parish councils, and key community partners including the
voluntary and community sector, as we understand how to best meet community
needs and improve outcomes for residents in a sustainable and effective way.
This would help us deliver the objectives under ‘Communities for All’ in our
council plan, and prepare for policy changes that were emerging from the
English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill.