People across Inverclyde are being encouraged to help make a difference in where they live by getting involved in their local community council.

The call comes ahead of community council elections, which are due to take place in early 2024.

Community councils are the third tier of government, bridging the gap between communities, councils, and national governments.

They play an important role in towns and villages across Scotland.

In preparation for the elections, a review of community councils recently took place to ensure they continue to meet the needs of the places and people they serve.

Councillor Paul Cassidy, Inverclyde Council’s community council champion, said: “The next community council elections are expected to take place early in the new year but there’s no time like the present to get involved in your local community council and start making a real difference to the area you live.

“One of the key issues with community councils is membership and we have several councils that are inactive due to lack of people.

“New members are always encouraged and with elections just around the corner, now is the time to register an interest in becoming a community councillor and play an important role in delivering positive change for your community.”

Inverclyde Council has a statutory duty to examine how community councils look and operate and what changes, if any, are required to ensure they continue to meet the needs of the areas and people they serve.

The last review took place in 2011.

More information about community councils, how to get involved, and the recent statutory review can be found on the Inverclyde Council website at www.inverclyde.gov.uk/communitycouncils