20 ways to make a world of difference

Prime the parish pump

If the mere mention of streetlighting or litter sends you into a tirade, step forward for a term as a parish, town or community councillor. At this most local level of British democracy, women's voices remain under-represented, yet most councils have more seats than bums to fill them. For details, call 020 7637 1865 or visit www.nalc.gov.uk (England and Wales); or call 01356 623330 or visit www.ascc.org.uk (Scotland)