Alderney is a close-knit community, so States Members tend to have closer and more frequent contact with members of the public than Parliamentary representatives in larger jurisdictions. It is therefore particularly important that Members of the States remain aware that they are representing the States of Alderney and the island at all times, exhibit exemplary public behaviour, and ensure that even casual conversations with members of the public are carried out with care.
Community work of a States Member’s workload varies considerably depending on their profile, interests and time available.
Each States Member has been elected by voters so you clearly have a duty to deal with members of the public as helpfully and respectfully as possible. On the face of it that is a simple duty and people would not stand for election if they did not want to help the public.
Issues raised by the public to a States Member may relate to a broad area of strategy or policy, or to a particular area of public administration which is affecting the individual. Questions may be able to be resolved quickly or may require ongoing attention for an extended period of time.
This work can range from asking questions in the States about matters raised by members of the public, to advising on dealing with States’ Committees, to representing public interests in quite complex cases regarding, for example, access to social security benefits, housing, health care or education.
Members of the public in need of advice or support may approach a States Member face to face, by phone or by e-mail.