I had the pleasure of representing ADSO at the Society of Local Council Clerks (SLCC) Conference last week in Hinckley. It was good to meet their new Chief Executive, Rob Smith and I enjoyed a number of the workshops. There was a very interesting session from Paul Hoey on councillor conduct. There is real concern amongst SLCC about parish councillors’ behaviour, some of which has developed into bullying of council clerks. SLCC has asked ADSO to join with them in carrying out a survey of Monitoring Officers on this topic. I have agreed in principle subject to further discussions. I will let you know more in the not too distant future.
Continuing with the theme of joint working, I am pleased to say that we have a delegation of 10 ADSO members attending the SOLAR Autumn Conference in Glasgow on 10th November. This is a really good response, so thanks to all who put their names forward. I look forward to an enjoyable day with you.
There are still some places left on the ‘Council and its Governance’ Training course in Leicester on 6 November. As I’ve said before, it’s important that we run successful training courses outside of London. This will only happen if they are well supported.
And finally from me this week. If you haven’t renewed your membership, please do so as quickly as possible.
Best wishes and have a good week, particularly if it’s half term in your neck of the woods.
John