Councillors to star in DVD

THREE borough councillors have been selected to appear in a DVD pgiving an insight into their day-to-day lives and responsibilities.

THREE borough councillors have been selected to star in a DVD  giving an insight into their day-to-day lives and responsibilities.

It is hoped that the Day in the Life film will accurately depict how Rotherham councillors’ roles extend beyond attending meetings and show the difference they can make to their communities.

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Just a quarter of Rotherham residents feel they can influence local decisions, according to recent statistics, with the younger generation feeling particularly disengaged.

The DVD will also be shown at community meetings and in schools to stir an interest in politics, and perhaps inspire the borough councillors of the future.

Cllrs Tom Fenoughty, Jacquie Falvey and Mahroof Hussain will feature prominently, but the half-hour film will also include a host of other Town Hall regulars.

What do you think of the DVD idea? Use the "write-a-comment" button to give your view.

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“At a national level, and certainly within Rotherham, many members of the public do not appreciate the day to day responsibilities of being a local councillor,” a council report said this week.

“The DVD would be a valuable resource in supporting the council’s duty to promote democracy.”

About £2,400 has been set aside to shoot, produce and promote the project. If successful, it could be the first of a series of Day in the Life films.

Cllr Falvey hopes that her segment will feature her work with young runaways charity Safe@Last and a school governors meeting, in addition to her Licensing Board, community walkabout and Area Assembly responsibilities.

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Cllr Hussain hopes to depict a meeting with local businesses, a street surgery and a Clifton Community Partnership event as well as his usual meetings.

And Cllr Fenoughty would like to feature his work with parish councillors and a community leadership event.

The report said: “Not only would the DVD clearly show members of the public what it’s like being a councillor, but also the routes for them to get involved in their local community groups and the bodies which they can use to influence council policies and decisions.

People who participate in community activities have been shown to gain from a sense of achievement, increased confidence, and enhanced skills and self-esteem.

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“Similarly, when citizens feel that they can have an influence over decisions and that their voice will be heard and respected, this can improve their sense of well-being and happiness.”

The idea for the DVD came from the Rotherham South Area Assembly.

The project will go before Cabinet in April and should be completed after the local elections on May 6.

For more information about becoming a councillor, visit www.beacouncillor.org.