Parish Council Insurance

Parish Council Insurance – Information for Councillors and Volunteers

The Parish Council holds several types of insurance to protect its activities, assets, and people. This includes public liability, employers’ liability, and asset insurance. Below is a summary of how this applies to councillors and volunteers.

1. Public Liability Insurance

This covers the Parish Council if it is found to be legally liable (negligent) for injury to a third party or damage to third-party property.

  • This includes cover for volunteers and councillors while they are carrying out work or duties on behalf of the Parish Council.

  • For example, if a volunteer were helping at a community event and someone was accidentally injured due to the Council’s negligence (for instance, faulty equipment or lack of safety signage), the policy would respond.

2. Volunteer Cover

Volunteers are regarded as representing the Parish Council when engaged in approved Council activities.

  • They are covered under the Council’s public liability insurance for injury or damage caused to a third party, where the Council is at fault.

  • However, this insurance does not cover personal injury or damage to the volunteer’s own property, unless it can be shown that the injury or loss was due to the Parish Council’s negligence.

  • Volunteers are therefore encouraged to take reasonable care and follow any safety advice or procedures provided.

3. Councillors

Councillors are covered by the same public liability insurance while performing official Council duties.

  • Additionally, the Council holds employers’ liability insurance, which provides cover for injury or illness sustained by employees, and in certain circumstances, councillors and volunteers acting under the Council’s instruction.

  • The Council may also hold officials’ indemnity insurance, which protects councillors and officers against claims arising from decisions made in good faith while carrying out their duties.

4. Key Points to Remember

  • Cover applies only when acting on behalf of the Parish Council or under its direction.

  • The insurance does not cover personal activities outside Council business.

  • Volunteers and councillors should report any accidents or incidents immediately, so that the Clerk can record and, if necessary, notify the insurer.

  • The Parish Council will ensure appropriate risk assessments are completed for all organised activities.

  • If you are a volunteer you must read the relevant risk assessment before commencing any volunteer role.