NALC's Smaller Councils Committee urges councils to support the training of councillors and staff

The Smaller Councils Committee of the National Association of Local Councils (NALC) is urging smaller sized local (parish and town) councils to support the training and development of their councillors and staff.

The move follows consideration by the committee of a motion agreed at NALC’s annual general meeting aimed at increasing levels of training, particularly of councillors.

Cllr Sue Baxter, chairman of NALC, said: “Well trained councillors and staff are vital to the effective operation of England’s 10,000 local councils, many of whom represent small communities and have limited budgets, but play such an important part in building strong communities.

“However, all 100,000 councillors - as community leaders - cannot carry out their role without the necessary knowledge and skills. There is a wealth of training and development opportunities for councillors and staff, particularly those provided by county associations of local councils, ranging from easy-to-read The Good Councillor guide's, to training events and courses. It is vital councils invest properly in their councillors and staff, including budgeting for their training and development. I am delighted NALC’s Smaller Councils Committee is throwing their weight behind this issue.”