Agenda item

To make any further suggestions prior to the receipt of the report.

1.    To note and accept the report.

2.    To ask for the Core Training titles for Members to be reviewed at the Committee's next meeting.

The report was presented by the Talent and Apprenticeships Lead, in the absence of the Learning and Development Manager. The appointment of a new Members Development Officer was confirmed and Catrin Owen was welcomed to the post. Details were given of the eight Core Areas identified for Members, noting that Members were continually being encouraged and reminded to complete them as a minimum in order to be able to carry out their role as councillors effectively. Disappointment was expressed that there had not been a significant increase in the number of Members who had completed more of the core titles since February of last year. Further frustration was expressed that seven Members had not completed any of the eight Core titles, following various requests for them to do so. Members were reminded that they could access the provision of core courses on-line at any time, and that members were welcome to get in touch at any time if there were any difficulties. It was noted that the department had uploaded videos and developed resources on the Members' Intranet to try and facilitate arrangements. It was explained that this enabled members to watch the videos at their convenience. Members were encouraged to attend the safeguarding training session on 6 March. It was mentioned that there was an opportunity for Members to have discussions around personal development and that some had already taken up the offer. Members were welcome to contact the Department's Learning and Development Manager if they wanted to add any title or training session as it was the last year of the current electoral term. Reference was made to the new title - 'Ward Leadership' - which was currently under development, noting that arrangements were in place to establish this soon. It was elaborated that discussions with heads of department were underway to determine further training proposals for the new electoral period. Disappointment was expressed that six Members had not completed any of the training, especially the Code of Conduct. The importance of completing the core courses was emphasised. The importance of the core courses and the possibility of them being renamed as mandatory fields were noted. A reminder was given that the number of courses completed by members was now public information on the Council's website. A question was asked as to whether members could receive personal and direct reminders stating exactly which training they had not completed. It was explained that a note was available on the members' personal page on the intranet to show this information and which clearly indicated the core training that had been completed. Members were encouraged to contact the Members' Learning and Development Officer if they had any queries. A Member questioned whether the Committee could act to establish an LGBTQI+ training area as an additional core training. A Member expressed that it was a very useful and helpful course in terms of the appropriate language to use in the LGBTQI+ community. It was reiterated that this course would help to ensure that the Council's members were more open and welcoming. It was mentioned that all core areas for members could be reviewed over the next year, identifying which core training members would be expected to complete and follow in the next electoral cycle. The desire for members to complete all core titles early on in the next electoral period was noted. Consideration was given to linking core training titles to specific functions and seats within members' responsibilities. For example, ensuring that members attended specific training relating to care, if they wanted to be a member of the Care Scrutiny Committee. Reference was made to developments with the Member Development Strategy, with the intention of strengthening training expectations for Members. It was assured that the Strategy would be presented to the Committee in November, before being formally adopted by the Full Council in March 2027.

DECISION

To accept the report.