The privilege of holding the pen for the last ADSO newsletter of 2023 falls to me, and what a year it has been!
For happy reasons (the birth of my daughter), I was not able to attend the recent conference, but feedback from members and pictures from social media suggest it was a great success. With developments and ideas already being discussed for next year, I’m very excited to join 2024’s event.
Writing of looking ahead to 2024, the Board had its final meeting of 2023 recently. On the agenda was developments in training and qualifications, strategy, and events. As ever, it was great to hear from our Regional Representatives, and the vibrant and insightful meetings they hold continue to attract large numbers of members to discuss the hot topics in their area and beyond.
The theme that seemed to run through the meeting was opportunity. There are many opportunities coming up to contribute to and participate in ADSO’s work, some of which are detailed in this newsletter. If you have time to spare, do consider getting involved.
2024 Training Programme & booking for January Overview & Scrutiny workshop
All dates have now been confirmed for the 2024 ADSO Training Programme. Bookings are now being taken for the courses running from January – April 2024, details of which can be found here.
Please note that there was an error on the booking site for the Overview & Scrutiny training on 30th January/6th February which has now been resolved. Please try to re-book as it was noted as full.
LGA survey on security costs for council meetings
The LGA is considering the costs of security at council meetings and how this may have changed over due to rising community tensions. This short survey asks you to share insights about the use of security staff at your council and associated costs. The survey should only take about six minutes to complete. Please do consider sharing information about your councils approach to inform the national picture.
LGA survey on security costs for council meetings
ADSO Director of Communications
Do you have experience developing, implementing and evaluating communications and marketing strategy? Are you interested in raising the profile and impact of ADSO’s important work? We’re looking for a new Director of Communications to focus on how we engage with our members and stakeholders.
You can find out more here. The closing date for applications is 4pm on Thursday December 28th 2023. We are happy to consider a job share arrangement.
Finally, some readers might watch BBC’s Only Connect on a Monday night. My ears pricked up during last week’s episode at the mention from one young contestant that they were a Democratic Services Officer. Given the mind-bending nature of the quiz questions, I have no doubt he has a bright future in front of him!
On behalf of all at ADSO, I wish you a wonderful Christmas and a happy and prosperous New Year.
All the best
Matthew
Matthew Hall, ADSO Director of Business Strategy and Development