Democracy in Southwark

Your council, your call

The democractic landscape in Southwark is changing, thanks to the work of the Democracy Commission and your input. The commission was set up in July 2010 to improve both the level and the quality of 'people power' in the borough by making council meetings more open and effective. Its aim is to bring the council closer to its residents, making it more accountable to them and more connected with their concerns.

Phase one of the commission, from summer 2010 to spring 2011, looked at ways in which council assembly could be improved, based on your feedback and suggestions. We've recently completed phase two - a review of the role and function of community councils, identifying how they can be improved as well as ways to make savings. The democracy commission is now due to present its set of recommendations for community councils to cabinet, for ratification at council assembly in early 2012 and implementation thereafter.

As a local authority, we're committed to creating 'a fairer future for all'. You can help to make this vision a reality by continuing to play your part in decision-making at council meetings.

Changes to council assembly

Thank you to all those who contributed to the review of council assembly. We are also grateful to all who shared their views as part of the more recent review of community councils.

Based on your feedback we have now made recommendations on improving council assembly and are working on implementing these.

As a result, changes to council assembly will: