The Code of Conduct and corresponding guidance sets out the minimum standards of behaviour expected. It is designed to encourage councillors to model the high standards expected, to be mutually respectful even if they have personal or political differences, to provide a personal check and balance, and to set out the type of conduct that could lead to complaints being made of behaviour falling below the standards expected of councillors and in breach of the code.

It is also to protect councillors, the public, local authority officers and the reputation of the local government. Find out how this works in practice.

Aims of the course

Come to understand

• the reasons for members’ standards
• why the council has adopted a code of conduct
• the standards expected of council members
• the meaning of ‘interests’ and how to register and declare them
• what to do in meetings when there is a conflict of interest
• what might happen when things go wrong!

1.5 CPD point 

Councillor training. It is for all councillors and a good refresher for councillors that haven’t attended for training for some time.

Covers:

• WALC / NALC membership benefits and services offered
• Engaging and making a difference in the community
• Parish and Town council procedures and law
• Powers and duties
• Governance
• Council meetings
• Roles and responsibilities of council and staff
• Precept, budgets, council tax and audit