Question

the clerk at my PC meeting would not let me sit where I could hear the meeting. is this legal?-

Answer 1

What did they DO to prevent this happening?

Answer 2

Unfortunately this is something I have come across whereby an officer attempts to make public experience so difficult and unwelcome as a matter of routine. I vividly remember the first ever meeting I went to observe and finding seats so far back was practically in another village with the first 3 rows with papers on them marked "RESERVED" in bright red font for good measure (despite nobody ever making use of them). I asked very politely and was flatly refused. I spoke with the Cllrs (who all basically given up trying to manage this particular Clerk) who were sympathectic but basically terrified of "underming her". The next meeting i arrived with a tripod with a mounted SLR Camera & Microphone and placed it down in close proximity explaining I'd taken advice (with the advice printed for the clerk to read) and id be recording the meetings moving forward (including every committee meeting). Well short story what a change.. afterwards.

Answer 3

Tell the PC you have hearing impairment and cannot hear what is being said. 

Ask for reasonable adjustments to mitigate your hearing difficulty - could be as simple as moving closer if that works or ask them to have a mag loop hearing amplifier fitted as would be required by law

https://www.equalityhumanrights.com/equality/equality-act-2010/your-rights-under-equality-act-2010

That should do the trick. 

Answer 4

The council, like all businesses, would be required by law under the DDA to make reasonable adjustment to allow you to observe proceedings but what counts as reasonable does depend on individual circumstances.  Is the room/building where the meeting takes place owned by the council?  What size is your council?   A large council with direct control over the building/room would be expected in law to do a lot more than a tiny council which rents a room in the local village hall which itself has little or no facilities.  I'd suggest asking your council if it would work with you and the venue to improve things for you.