Local Councillors across the country now have the opportunity to study a new qualification – the BTEC Professional Award in Local Governance. The Award is designed to equip Councillors with a full range of effective community leadership and partnership skills, enabling them to represent their communities within a wider governance context. It is the first nationally available qualification for Councillors. | |
| Councillor Abdul Malik said: “The qualification has had a large impact on my effectiveness as a Councillor. It has helped me to examine how I can be more effective and provide a better service to my constituents and improve the quality of life for those living in my ward. The networking has also been very valuable in providing an opportunity to discuss approaches and share experiences.” |
Barbara Janke, Leader of Bristol City Council, said: “Recent reforms to local government have led to a heavier workload for councillors and also required them to take a more strategic approach to their roles. The effectiveness of local councillors is key to the quality of service provision for local communities. This new qualification has enabled us to develop the skills of local councillors, and provides both existing and potential future councillors with a recognised professional accreditation.” Following a successful pilot in the South West, the first graduates received their awards from the Lord Mayor of Bristol in a ceremony at Mansion House today. The qualification will now be rolled out to local councillors across the country. Ends/.. | |
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Friday Sep 05 2008
