East Suffolk Council
Member development
How we support Our members
East Suffolk Council is committed to the continuing professional development of its councillors and co-opted members. Such a commitment is key to helping members build on the skills and knowledge which they have, so they can best serve their communities, and respond to an ever-changing environment, the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and the current cost of living crisis. Also, so that they can deliver against the themes in the new emerging East Suffolk’s Strategic Plan – Our Direction 2028.
This commitment to councillors’ growth and development was evidenced by the reaccreditation of the “Member Development Charter and Charter Plus” status in 2020 and a clear aim to be re-accredited with the award, when it is due to be re-assessed in 2023.
A cross-party Member Development Steering Group champions Member Development and ensures that the needs of councillors and co-opted nembers are met.
A Member Development Strategy and Action Plan was drawn up by the Steering Group and approved by Full Council in July 2020. The Strategy is currently being reviewed, however, it will still set out a clear and detailed programme as to how the council will help members in developing their knowledge and skills, as well as signposting the support which will be available to prospective candidates who wish to stand for election, in the future.
The Strategy also recognises that it is a great benefit to have councillors and co-opted members from a range of different backgrounds, as they bring with them a wealth of varying experiences. It also means that they have different training needs and learning styles. In response to this, the Steering Group approves a Training and Development Schedule each year, setting out briefings and courses which will be available to members. The contents of the annual programme is based on feedback and requests from members as to what they would like to learn more about, and any training required to keep up to date with legislation and corporate priorities.
If you wish to know any more about the Member Development Charter/Charter Plus, and the Strategy, please contact Democratic Services.