Council wins development award

WARRINGTON Borough Council has won an award for the way it develops councillors to support the community.
The council has been reaccredited with level one charter status for the quality of support and development of elected councillors.
The North West Charter for Elected Member Development, launched in 2000 by North West Employers, was presented to the council for its work in helping councillors serve the community.
It had to meet a range of criteria as part of the application process including providing a statement of commitment to members’ development, ensuring members are made aware of training and development opportunities and identifying individual development needs.
The council also provides an officer to assist members and groups in identifying needs and providing information on resources and a local strategy to meet the training and development needs of elected members.
Councillors were involved in drawing up the plans and most councillors have personal development plans, access to e-learning facilities and a development forum to support them in their work.
Coun Keith Bland, chairman of the councillor development forum, said: “This award recognises our firm commitment to member development and training.
“Changing roles and expectations as well as constant legislative developments put a real pressure on our members. The support they receive enables them to fulfil the demands of their roles and better serve the people they represent.”
Council representatives received their award at a ceremony in Manchester from Minister for the North West Beverley Hughes – formerly a councillor herself in neighbouring Trafford.
Caption – Coun Keith Bland with Minister for the North West Beverley Hughes