Double win for Taunton: Tom Deakin named Young Councillor of the Year

Tom Deakin, Leader of Taunton Town Council and Somerset Councillor for North Taunton, has been named Somerset Young Councillor of the Year by the Somerset Association of Local Councils (SALC).

The award comes as part of a successful evening for Taunton, with Taunton Town Council winning Council of the Year. The council’s Clerk was runner-up for Clerk of the Year, while the council also finished runner-up for Somerset Nature & Climate Response of the Year.

Tom, who became Leader of Taunton Town Council aged 28 when the new council was established in 2023, was recognised for his contribution to local services, community engagement and the development of the new authority.

Since taking on the role, Tom has championed a focus on delivering practical improvements for residents. Under his leadership, the council has brought its public toilet cleansing service back in-house, refurbished three sets of public toilets and developed its own Open Spaces and Maintenance Team, increasing its ability to respond directly to local priorities.

Tom has also led efforts to make the council more accessible to residents. Around 250 people attended the council’s most recent Annual Town Meeting at The Brewhouse Theatre, where he presented the council’s work and took questions directly from the floor.

He has supported initiatives to give residents a greater say in the town’s future, including the council’s Community Review and Community Plan, the development of a Neighbourhood Plan, and a comprehensive review of Taunton’s play parks, with accessibility considered across the network.

Tom said:

“I’m delighted to receive this award. Being a councillor is about being there for residents, dealing with the issues that matter to people and working hard to make a practical difference in our communities. It’s a privilege to be able to do that for Taunton.

“Since Taunton Town Council was established, we’ve focused on building an organisation that delivers for residents. That means improving everyday services, investing in our public spaces and facilities, and making sure people have opportunities to influence the decisions that affect them.

“We’ve made real progress, from bringing services back in-house and refurbishing public toilets to giving residents a more direct voice in the future of our town. There is still plenty more to do, but I’m proud of what we’ve achieved so far.”

The Young Councillor of the Year award recognises a Somerset councillor who was aged 30 or under when last elected and has contributed significantly to their community. With the average age of councillors around 60, the award also highlights the importance of encouraging younger people to become involved in local democracy.

Tom added:

“I hope this award encourages more young people to get involved in their communities and consider standing for election. Local government is one of the most direct ways to make a difference, whether that’s tackling an issue on your street, improving local facilities or helping shape the future of your town.

“I’m also incredibly proud that Taunton Town Council has been named Council of the Year, alongside the recognition for our work on nature and climate and for our Clerk.

“These awards reflect the commitment of our councillors and staff, as well as the volunteers, community organisations and residents we work alongside. It’s fantastic to see that work recognised, and I want to thank everyone who contributes to making Taunton a better place to live.”