New Report Outlines Cost to Promoting Civic Pride

A new report is set to outline investment in promoting civic pride across South Tyneside.

South Tyneside Council hosts a series of civic events throughout the year, including key annual community events and one-off occasions that celebrate and recognise a wide range of organisations and individuals who positively contribute to life in South Tyneside.

In a new report to Borough Council on Thursday 7 September, elected members will hear that more than 1500 people were hosted at civic events between 1 April 2022 to 31 March 2023, with hospitality costing £22,405 during the same period.

Events have included visits from children, community groups, uniformed organisations and the armed forces community, as well as voluntary, charitable and sports organisations. Visitors from other local authorities, the wider region and from overseas are also typically welcomed to the Borough.

During the reported 12-month period, the biggest events included Freedom of the Borough celebrations, which are exceptional, as well as community events such as Mayoress at Home and Remembrance that recognises the contribution of the armed forces personnel and veterans.

Councillor Joanne Bell, Lead Member for Governance, Finance and Corporate Services, said: "We work hard to keep spend to a minimum and make events cost neutral wherever we can. Hospitality is just one of the ways we engage with a wide variety of groups, from veterans and older people to school children and children in care, our LGBTQ+ community and people of all backgrounds.

"Civic events are for the people of South Tyneside. They promote civic pride by celebrating and recognising the achievements of the Borough's individuals, groups, schools and other organisations. They also bring communities together through key public events such as Anzac Day and Remembrance services, with those who serve and have served for our country invited to enjoy hospitality.

"It also includes multiple Mayoral engagements where youngsters, charities, volunteers or community groups are invited into our beautiful town hall to receive a personal 'thank you' from the Mayor on behalf of the people of South Tyneside.

"For many people, particularly our younger generation, it's a first visit to the town hall and a real memorable, special occasion they look back on in years to come."

The figures relate to annual and one-off events and cover the cost of food, beverages and ancillary spend on event equipment hire and catering staff costs over the year.

Councillor Bell added: "The spend on hospitality refers to the costs incurred in delivering events that promote civic pride. This the first time that we are publicly reporting civic spend in this way as part of our commitment to being more open and transparent. It's the right thing to do."

The figures reported cover the financial year and not the municipal year.

The Borough Council meeting it taking place on Thursday 7 September, at 6pm, in the Council Chamber at South Shields Town Hall. Borough Council meetings are live streamed on the Council's YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/@southtynesidecouncil