Decision

The DSO provided a
progress update on the Councillor Development Reviews
(CDR’s). The DSO explained that a total of 24 out of 36
CDR’s were completed so far and provided a breakdown of
completion rates by Political Group.
 
The DSO explained that
the feedback received in Member’s CDR’s highlighted
several training and development needs. This information was used
to develop the Draft 2024-2025 Member Development Programme,
enclosed as part of the agenda. An update would also be provided to
Members at Full Council on Tuesday 24 September 2024.
 
The DSO asked for
Member’s feedback on the draft programme before it was taken
to Full Council, including suggestions of topics to be added.
Members suggested that more training was needed in the following
areas:
 

1.   
The role of the opposition and how to be an effective opposition
Member:
 
-      
The Senior Democratic Services & Scrutiny Officer (SDSSO)
highlighted training provided by East Midlands Councils (EMC) for
members of the opposition, as well as the importance of leadership
modules. The SDSSO also emphasised the significance of effective
Scrutiny as a measure of opposition.
 

2.   
Local Government Finance:
 
-      
Members discussed the training need prior to the Scrutiny of the
Budget process in January 2025.
 

3.   
Planning Masterclasses:
 
-      
Members discussed key areas where a Planning Masterclass would be
most beneficial.