Council Employee Development
Procurement Act 2023
For anyone involved in procuring goods and services, preparing tenders or entering into contracts on behalf of local councils.
Freedom of Information for local councils: obligations, procedures and exemptions
This course looks at what requirements and obligations local councils have when it comes to Freedom of Information.
Introduction to VAT
This session is for clerks, finance staff and councillors. It explains how VAT rules affects local councils, focussing on those that are not VAT registered, but reclaim VAT using Form VAT126. Essential for any council contemplating major building projects
Crisis Communications for Local Councils
This session takes participants through the detail of preparing for any crisis. We pass on expert tips and guidance on being prepared and cover the effective steps your council could take should the worst happen.
VAT for VAT registered councils
This session is for clerks, finance staff and councillors from VAT registered councils who wish to develop their knowledge of how VAT applies to their council's activities.
How councils can engage effectively with young people in their communities
In this session we explore what we actually mean by the term ‘young people’, what issues matter to different groups of younger people and how to effectively reach and engage them, both online and offline
Some recent feedback from delegates on what was most useful about the course:
'Hearing what other councils are doing, sharing ideas and having data to back it up.'
'Suggestions for use of social media. Hearing other people’s experiences'
An introduction to neighbourhood planning and design codes
NEW FOR 2025
Does your council want to get started on a Neighbourhood Plan, or review an existing Plan?
This session will provide an understanding of what is involved in the development of a Neighbourhood Plan, and associated documents such as Design Codes, and also help with reviewing exisiting Plans.
Dealing with difficult people and conversations in our local councils
In this session we explore practical techniques to manage difficult conversations and situations in a council environment.
New Clerks' Finance (get second course free after you attend)
This introductory session is for inexperienced clerks, deputy/assistant clerks and finance officers in their first few months and is designed to give them an overview of a council's year, along with a basic understanding of the RFO's role.
Data Protection for councils Part 1: Foundations & theory
In an ever-evolving legislative landscape, it is vital that councils ensure they have the most up-to-date understanding of their data protection obligations.
