| New booklet launched to support south west councils and their champions - 12th March '09 |
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Three Councillor champions from the south west region have been chosen as case studies in a new booklet designed to show how financial constraints are not a hindrance to effective championing.
The South West Employers group, commissioned by the government body South West Councils has shown that there need be no cost to the taxpayer when councils appoint champions to raise awareness of potentially disadvantaged people living in their areas.
Councillor Sarah Bevan is the Human Rights champion for Bath and North East Somerset council, and despite the removal of the allowance in recent months, has continued to arrange high profile events to champion the cause of local and national rights issues.
Her championing of the use of tap water rather than bottled water to safeguard supplies for local people overseas led to the saving for the tax payer of £17,000 per year when the council voted to stop buying in bottled water for council premises and meetings.
Other champions include Councillor Robin Munday of South Somerset council. e-government champion and Councillor Di Martin from the Forest of Dean, Benefits Champion.
Cllr Bevan said:
"I hope this guide will enable the next crop of champions to find their way around this role. Essentially it's about raising the profile of your theme and inviting local people to take part in associated events. The guide offers guidance and demonstrates good outcomes - it's an easy way to step outside formal meetings and into action!"
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