Councillor with Confidence: Roles, Decisions and Making a Difference

Designed for new councillors and experienced members seeking a practical refresher, this interactive session explores what it means to be an effective councillor.

Participants will examine the roles, responsibilities, duties and powers of councillors, the council and council officers, helping them understand how each contributes to good governance. The session will also explain how councils make lawful decisions, including the importance of properly prepared agendas, accurate minutes and correct procedures.

Through practical guidance and group discussion, councillors will consider how they can represent their communities, contribute constructively to meetings and make a positive difference.

By the end of the session, participants will be able to:

Understand the roles, responsibilities, duties and powers of councillors.
Recognise the distinct roles of the council, councillors and council officers.
Understand how lawful council decisions are made and recorded.
Appreciate the legal importance of agendas, minutes and correct procedures.
Contribute confidently and constructively to council meetings.
Identify the qualities and behaviours of an effective councillor.