ADSO offer two (non-regulated) qualification programmes for those working in Democratic Services:
- The Certificate in Democratic Services Knowledge
- The Diploma in Local Democracy
It is important to note that these are both distance learning programmes of self-directed study, there are no face to face or online training sessions to attend.
An assessor is allocated to you to provide guidance throughout the programme
The ADSO Diploma in Local Democracy
For more details about the Diploma in Local Democracy download this brochure
Diploma in Local Democracy Overview
extension: pdf
Gaining the Diploma
Each learner is assigned an assessor to support them through their studies. There is no formal training required but ADSO offers a range of courses to compliment the programme and a number of resources to support learners to help with research and guidance on completing the assignments.
Learners undertake a written assignment for each of the four modules. On successful completion of the foundation stage, the learner plans and carries out the necessary research to write a 12000 – 14000 word dissertation on their chosen specialist area. The assessment criteria are based on English legislation.
Please note: The Diploma programme is rigorous, requiring learners to critically assess assignment questions, support their arguments with research, and present their own informed perspectives. A deep understanding of their field is essential for engaging critically with sources. Assignments also require thorough evaluation of others’ ideas, theories, and studies.
ADSO recommend completing the Certificate in Democratic Services Knowledge programme before undertaking the Diploma in Local Democracy.
Workplace mentor
Learners must identify a workplace mentor when registering for this programme. For more information on the role of the workplace mentor please see the guidance document below.
Work place mentor guidance
extension: pdf
ADSO training courses
Learners can access two free places on training courses during their time on the ADSO Certificate, this applies to courses except ‘Just a Minute’ and ‘Becoming a DSO.’
If you would like to access a place as a Learner please ensure that you email adsotraining@emcouncils.gov.uk at the point of booking to ensure that there are places available and to inform East Midlands Councils that you would like to take advantage of this benefit of being an ADSO Learner.
Timescales
Learners must complete their assignments to strict deadlines, these are laid out in the ADSO Diploma in Local Democracy programme overview document with the aim of completing seven modules within an agreed timescale of approximately 16-months to 2-years depending on prior achievement of the ADSO Certificate in Democratic Services Knowledge.
Learners must be prepared to work on the programme in their own time, without this commitment it is not possible to complete the programme.
Prices
There are two pricing structures:
1. For Learners who have previously achieved the ADSO Certificate in Democratic Services Knowledge and are exempt from the first three modules of the Diploma:
ADSO Members: £1295 + VAT
Non ADSO Members: £1625 + VAT
2. For Learners who have not previously achieved the ADSO Certificate in Democratic
ADSO Members: £1550 + VAT
Non ADSO Members: £1880 + VAT
Bursaries
A limited number of bursaries are available for ADSO members – please go the bursaries web page for information. Submission deadlines apply.
Applying for a place on The ADSO Diploma in Local Democracy beginning in October 2025
Step 1: Complete the expression of interest form by clicking on the following link:
There are a limited number of places available on each cohort and applications are processed in order of receipt of expressions of interest.
An expression of interest does not guarantee a place on programme.
Step 2: You will receive a unique reference number – please keep this safe.
Step 3: We will contact you in June 2025 and ask you to provide further information to support your application.
Step 4: After you have completed the full application, your line manager is contacted and asked to provide some further information. This must be completed prior to the 30th of June 2025.
Step 5: Applications are considered in July 2025 and places on the programme are offered in August 2025.
Step 6: If you are offered a place, you are required to confirm your acceptance and confirm employer support.
The next cohort will start in October 2025.
For all enquiries please contact: ADSO@swcouncils.gov.uk