News

ADSO has had queries from a number of Authorities about whether our training courses and qualifications are eligible to be funded by the Apprenticeship levy.  These queries included the possibility of setting up a Trailblazer Group in order to establish a new Apprenticeship in Democratic Services. This was discussed at the ADSO Board meeting on … Continued

This was my first IIMC conference and I hope it is not my last. It was a pleasure and privilege to be able to represent ADSO at the conference. There were a number of highlights. Firstly, the people. The atmosphere was relaxed and friendly whilst professional. The range of staff was also interesting and well … Continued

  Dear [user:displayname | default:member], Bookings for this years conference are now open, the event will take place on the 23rd and 24th November with dinner and awards ceremony on the night of the 23rd. This is ADSO’s 8th Annual Conference and our flagship event, the planning team are working towards a varied programme looking at … Continued

The Democracy Commission was brought together by Kirklees Council to investigate what a strong and healthy local democracy should look like in Kirklees – for the next generation, and beyond. They were asked to gather evidence about local democracy and make recommendations based on what they learned. You can read the draft report here: Kirklees … Continued

On Friday 21 April the ADSO London Branch held its Annual Seminar at the offices of London Councils in Southwark. The event was well attended with around 60 delegates, speakers, sponsors and Committee Members present. The day was very successful with a lot of thoughtful contributions from all parties.   The day began with an … Continued

Blog post for the Lawyers in Local Government weekly newsletter by ADSO Chair, John Austin.   So the Prime Minister has decided on a general election in June. How many of us saw that coming? Being recently retired and hoping never to work on another election again (thus currently not answering my phone!) my sympathies … Continued

The London Branch Spring Seminar 2017 is almost upon us.  The seminar will focus on the top of “The Delivery Of Transparent And Accountable Governance For London” and will feature.   Professor Colin Copus and his colleague Rachel Wall from DeMontfort University, speaking about the work and interim findings of the Councillor Commission. Carl Whistlecraft, … Continued

Submission from Association of Democratic Services Officers (ADSO) to the Communities and Local Government (CLG) Committee inquiry into overview and scrutiny in local government ADSO is a professional organisation established in 2009 to support those working in the democratic and governance roles within local authorities in England. We provide a range of benefits to our members, … Continued

I am pleased to advise that ADSO sponsored the annual Notwestminster event this year, for the second time. You may be familiar with the event, but they are arranged by Kirklees and provide an opportunity for those working in the sector, citizens and interested organisations and individuals to consider improvements to local democracy. Over 2 … Continued

The House of Commons Communities & Local Government Select Committee has launched a new inquiry looking at the effectiveness of local authority scrutiny, and it wants as many people as possible to share their experiences. ADSO has agreed to work with the Committee in collecting and giving evidence. In an article last month the committee chair, … Continued