There are over 740 local (community and town) councils in Wales. They spend about £35 million each year. Councils receive this money from fees, charges and council tax. Spending by individual councils varies from a few thousand pounds to several hundred thousand pounds. It is the responsibility of each council to manage its own money well and to safeguard its assets.

This guide helps you to look after your community council's money and assets.

The guide covers the following areas:

Are you involved?	If you're a councillor, a clerk, an auditor or a member of the public, you have a role in managing community council money and assets.
Managing community council money	This sets out what your council needs to consider to safeguard its money and assets.
Case studies	These case studies set out real life examples to help your council to improve the way it manages community money and assets.
Checklist	The checklist helps you to identify improvements in how your council can manage its money and assets.
Directory	The directory explains all the technical terms used in this guide. It also includes useful links to documents that you may find helpful.
Useful links	These links direct you to information and advice you may find helpful for managing community money and assets.