Cost

LLG members £275+VAT

Non members £299+VAT

A course which addresses how to work at a senior level in the political environment of a local authority.

The ability to navigate the political interface with elected members is, more than ever, an essential part of being a successful senior local government lawyer. The nature of the role of the local authority lawyer inevitably involves close contact with members, and so political awareness and the confidence to deal with the inherently political nature of local authorities are essential skills. LLG’s Essential Guide to Political Awareness will enable you to properly understand the political dynamics of local government, be confident with the governance framework, and develop the personal skills needed for success.

This full day session will cover:

• The role of elected councillors
• The role of officers including the Monitoring Officer and other statutory officers
• The importance of the relationship between members and officers in an effective council
• How the relationship works with new/complex structures, for example local authority companies, trusts, joint ventures
• Relevant good practice, codes and protocols
• Danger areas and how to deal with them including different governance arrangements; different political configurations; shared services, joint arrangements and combined authorities; change in political control; elections; social media; and working privately with the political groups;
• The personal values and skills you will need
• Tips for operating successfully in a political environment

The session will include plenty of examples and delegate interaction/discussion. It will be practical in nature, focusing on skills and tips for tackling real issues which will help delegates back at their councils.

This session is ideal for lawyers in local government who are moving, or plan to move, into more senior roles where their interaction with members will grow and there will be greater need to deal with governance issues. This masterclass will also be suitable for lawyers moving into local government from the private or other sectors. In addition, ANY lawyer in local government who feels they need a refresher on this subject, however experienced they are, will be very welcome!

This session leads well into the Masterclass on Political Awareness and Governance.