Issue - meetings

Members received an update on the Member Learning and Development Programme 2023–2027, which was currently in its Continuing Professional Development phase.

The Mayor and Member Support Officer advised that the programme had been refreshed ahead of the May 2023 elections and was structured around four key phases: induction, being an effective councillor, roles and responsibilities, and ongoing development.

Members were informed that several new initiatives had been introduced as part of the refresh, including early candidate communications, a two-day registration event, personal development plans (PDPs), and a Directorate Showcase. Induction packs were distributed to Members on election night, and feedback mechanisms have been embedded throughout the programme to support continuous improvement.

The Committee heard that feedback on the programme had been positive overall, with training sessions receiving an average rating of 4.5 out of 5. Members expressed a preference for evening and virtual sessions, reflecting that over 60% of Councillors are in full- or part-time employment. Feedback from Members had also indicated that more accessible online training, additional inclusions such as planning basics for all Members and drop-in sessions with council teams would be beneficial in future programmes.

The Mayor & Member Support Officer noted that there had been a decline in attendance at training sessions, which had promoted proposals for mandatory in person training to take place during Councillor registration. It had also been proposed that personal development plans be included in induction packs with explanatory notes, with the hopes of improving uptake.

Members heard that the phased approach was expected to continue into the 2027-2031 programme, with a focus on accessible and flexible training formats. Officers were exploring options for recorded sessions and utilising online platforms such as Councillor Connect and Ollie to create online modules. The Mayor & Member Support Officer advised that the Governance Committee will receive regular updates on the progress of this and would be asked to formally approve the 2027-2031 programme in 2026.

During the discussion Members reiterated that they had agreed with the positive feedback and noted that they had found the training offering to be very beneficial.  The Committee suggested that it would be helpful if flexible training options could be introduced ahead of the 2027-2031 programme's approval. Officers assured Member's that alternative training options will be introduced as they are functional.

Members thanked the Mayor & Member Support Officer and noted the update.