Decision details

The Cabinet considered the report of the Executive Director of Corporate Resources and Customer Services which outlined the purpose and benefits of the North-West Employers Member Development Charter and the various steps to be taken in the process for achieving accreditation.

Decision Made: That

(1)      the report be noted; and

(2)      the Council be requested to give approval for the Leader of the Council and the Chief Executive signing the Declaration of Commitment to the principles included in the North-West Member Development Charter and the Council’s intention to achieve Level 1 Member Development Charter Status, as shown at Appendix 1 to the report.

Reasons for Decision:

The North-West Employers Member Development Charter would provide an established framework to enable the Council to undertake a self-assessment and review good practice in supporting and developing Sefton’s elected members in order to help them fulfil the vital role they play in working with and supporting local communities.

Alternative Options Considered and Rejected:

None - If the Council did not sign up for and work towards the North-West Member Development Charter, it would mean that the Council would lose the benefit of an established framework for assessing, reviewing and developing good practice in the development of its Councillors, which could mean that they might be less equipped to fulfil their vital role in working with and supporting their local communities.