Governance Training for Officers

At this time of intense change for local government (both political and organisational) it is essential that all officers are supported in their roles. This is particularly important for those officers working at the interface with the politics of the organisation – they need to navigate change and relationships confidently, recognising the challenges of both member and officer roles at this time.

Perfectly pitched. Great balance between theory and practice

Principal Solicitor and Deputy Monitoring Officer

Officer Modules

We discuss with each council how they wish to approach their officer training including whether sessions are in-person or on-line. GOVTC can run full-day courses, or can deliver a more focused, half-day session. The longer time obviously allows more time for group discussion and engagement. We can also deliver shorter sessions (of around two hours) which cover the basics and which lend themselves well to a virtual format.

The session was set at the right level for those attending. It was made interesting and involved all. It encouraged thinking on wider issues to those we have encountered previously

Independent Member, Standards Committee

Parish, Community and Town Council Support

GOVTC provide training and support (including conciliation sessions) to parish, town and community councils. Tensions between members (and potentially with the clerk) can sometimes inhibit the effective conduct of business. We offer refresher training sessions on good governance, standards of conduct, running meetings and robust decision making. GOVTC can also facilitate meetings to address difficult issues of personal relationships and support the smooth functioning of the council

Excellent delivery and really appreciated the references to personal experience and practical tips

Senior Solicitor, Metropolitan Borough Council

Approach

We will discuss with each council how they wish to approach their officer training. GOVTC can run full-day courses, or can deliver a more focused, half-day session. The longer time obviously allows more time for group discussion and engagement. We can also deliver shorter sessions (of around two hours) which cover the basics and which lend themselves well to a virtual format.

GOVTC are happy to design a programme for all officers in a council which can be delivered over a period of time. We can also offer a module covering this topic for use in induction for senior officers – this is particularly valuable for officers coming straight into a council role from another sector who will be expected to operate immediately at a level involving interface with members.

If you are interested in GOVTC running a course for your council, please contact us.

Costs

GOVTC will provide costs on application. The fixed cost quoted will include all preparation, travel, materials, presentation and post session follow up/feedback. As part of the preparation for each session (included in the cost whatever format requested) we will have a telephone call with the council’s lead officer to run through the context for the training, the desired outcomes and any specific local issues of relevance.

We are happy to discuss discounts for delivering blocks or groups of sessions, for example as part of an induction programme for newly elected councillors.

If you would like to discuss your training needs or ask for a quote for the cost of running a specific module, please call us on 07450 220158 or email us at bethan@bethanevans.co.uk.  We will get back to you within 48 hours.