Hello
Apologies for the determinedly unglamorous thread title - we've gathered you here today to talk about council meetings!
As some of you will know, during the pandemic local authorities (councils) were given permission to hold their meetings online. This not only gave the nation the chance to enjoy the proceedings of Handforth Parish Council: it also meant that everyone who otherwise found in-person attendance difficult - perhaps because they had mobility or health issues, or because they had caring responsibilities or young children - could take part (as a councillor) or watch (as a local voter) with no barriers.
Last week councils were told that these online or hybrid meetings will have to stop almost immediately, and that everyone has to return to holding meetings in person.
We think this is a bad move, and we've been busily collecting signatures from councillors who are also parents to add to our open letter to the relevant government minister, Robert Jenrick.
If you're a councillor who's also a parent - or you know someone who is - we'd love to add your name. You can co-sign by adding your name to this document.
If you're not a parent who's a councillor BUT you agree with us anyway please help by sharing our social posts (eg here on Twitter or here on Facebook) to help us get as many signatures as possible.
And if you need any more persuasion - Jackie Weaver agrees with us 
Thanks
MNHQ