Norfolk council watchdog in turmoil as officer dismissed

But the Norfolk Association of Local Councils (NALC) appears to be experiencing its own turmoil after a senior officer's dismissal for "gross misconduct" led to members complaining about its governance.

Sarah Bristow, a parish clerk with 19 years of experience, has been sacked by NALC - an organisation that offers training and legal support to town and parish councils - following an investigation.

Details of the probe remain scarce, with board members refusing to reveal any further information other than that the group has "followed established procedures."

Although sources say it is related to a dispute over the creation of a business plan. 

NALC is also in the midst of a long-running dispute with HMRC over "taxation matters and pension payments."

The decision has caused strife internally, with president Tim O'Riordan issuing a letter to members, saying he "strongly disagrees" with her dismissal, adding that he is "deeply concerned" about the viability of the association. 

Rowdy parish council meetings gained national attention after a Handforth Parish Council meeting fell into disarray, making clerk Jackie Weaver a well-known figure (Image: PA)

WHAT IS NALC?

The organisation provides a range of services to local town and parish councils. 

This includes training for clerks and councillors, legal advice and support and payroll services.

It is an organisation which many parish councils turn to when they face challenges, such as relationship breakdowns between councillors.

Scenes of turmoil and rowdy behaviour at council meetings have been well-documented, such as the infamous Handforth Parish Council meeting which thrust parish clerk Jackie Weaver into the limelight in 2020.

Sarah Bristow has been dismissed from her position as county officer at Norfolk Association of Local Councils (Image: NALC)

OFFICER DISMISSED

Ms Bristow, who served as county officer for the organisation, would have been one of the main points of call for advice when issues arose.

But she has recently been dismissed for "gross misconduct" following an investigation.

NALC has not revealed the nature of the probe and what the reasons are for her sacking, although it has caused a stir among members.

Madeline Ashcroft, chairwoman and company secretary, said: "A full-time officer has been dismissed following an investigation. The decision has been made in accordance with established procedures, ensuring that all appropriate steps have been followed throughout the process.

"We are aware that certain misinformation has circulated regarding this matter. While we respect the importance of transparency, this misinformation has been unhelpful in allowing the organisation to focus on its core mission and move forward effectively." 

She added that NALC remains committed to maintaining "high standards of conduct and integrity."

Madeline Ashcroft, chairwoman and company secretary for the Norfolk Association of Local Councils (Image: Newsquest)

Ms Bristow said due to NALC "not following their own policies and guidelines," she is now appealing her dismissal.

PRESIDENT INTERVENES

The decision to remove Sarah Bristow has upset Tim O'Riordan, a University of East Anglia professor and president of NALC.

He has circulated a letter to members following her dismissal, warning that the organisation faces a "serious threat to the continued viability of the association."

He has signalled that Ms Bristow intends to appeal the decision and may seek a tribunal for unfair dismissal.

Tim O'Riordan, president of the Norfolk Association of Local Councils (Image: Newsquest)

He said: "I strongly disagree with the Board’s actions. Sarah has worked tirelessly for the good of Norfolk ALC and has my full support."

He has since called for an extraordinary meeting to be held this week to discuss the matter, while highlighting concerns about how NALC is run.

WHAT IS GOING ON?

In his letter, Professor O'Riordan says the reason for Ms Bristow's dismissal centres on a dispute over the creation of a "business plan and clear strategic direction."

It continues: "In addition, there is a long-running dispute with the HMRC over taxation matters and pension payments, where there is the possibility of the association getting into debt. Here is where the ambiguity over personal liability becomes of great importance."

He has questioned the running of the organisation, highlighting that no elections of board members have taken place.

"Founder members, who constitutionally should have resigned after a year, remain," he said.

"I firmly believe that it is vital that a body formally representing the excellent work of the local councils of the County is properly functioning and properly led.

"The very critical services the association offers to the residents of the county cannot be allowed to wither and die."

It is understood the matter is to be discussed at a meeting this week.