Agenda item

This report informs Members of:

·     The take up at events offered to date

·     A summary of the feedback received

·     Analysis of the take-up

·     Next steps in the core programme

Consideration was given to a report that informed  Members of:

·        The take up at events offered to date

·        A summary of the feedback received

·        Analysis of the take-up

·        Next steps in the core programme

Members were pleased to note the many positive comments about the training opportunities that had been provided.

The following suggestions were put forward in respect of planning for future training sessions: 

·        Members supported the suggestion detailed in paragraph 21 of the report, that a set of protocols be drawn up for those delivering training to Councillors.  This would provide clear guidance as to what was expected and would cover issues such as the format of handouts and presentations to ensure that the training was fully accessible.   Members requested that the Staff Equalities Working Group be consulted on the draft protocol¹.

·        Concerns were expressed that a number of Members booked to attend training sessions but did not do so.  This caused particular problem for trainers in terms of planning activities, workshops and resources.  It also meant that some sessions took place although there were a very low number of attendees and were not viable.  It was important that Members submitted their apologies if they were unable to attend.  Members of the committee agreed that, if officers notified them of the Members concerned, they would raise this issue with them.

·        It was agreed that, to ensure the viability of training sessions, a minimum number of attendees should be set and the session should be cancelled if this figure had not been reached.  The committee agreed that if, 48 hours prior to a training event, fewer than five Members had registered to attend the session should be cancelled.  It was noted that the minimum number may have to be lower for some training sessions, including those that were statutory.

·        Mindful of some Members’ work commitments, it was important that Members were aware of other training opportunities that were available, including on-line training.

·        It would be useful if Members were made aware of the target audience for some training sessions, for example whether they would be useful to new Members or whether they were targeted at those with more experience.  It was, however, noted that some of the training sessions also served as a useful refresher for longer-serving Members.

·        Members considered the revised evaluation form and supported its introduction.  Officers confirmed that trainers were made aware of the feedback that had been received on sessions that they had delivered.  The comments on the evaluation forms were also used to inform future training events.

Information was tabled on a leadership and management qualification for councillors which was accredited by the Institute for Leadership & Management.  The Authority had been invited to nominate one councillor to take part.  Officers sought Members’ views as to how the place should be allocated.  Members agreed that initially an email should be sent to all councillors to seek expressions of interest².

RESOLVED:  (i)      That the report be noted.

(ii)      That Members’ comments, as detailed above, be taken into account when planning future training programmes.

REASON:  In order to comply with the monitoring arrangements set out in the Steering Group’s Terms of Reference, as approved by Council.