Governance Matters 4r392j

What if the backbone of a well-functioning society isn't just its people, but its governance? me, Kirsty, as we continue our new series, Governance Matters, with a deep dive into the intricacies of allowances. Our special guest, Mark Palmer, the Director of Development and Governance at South East Employers, shares his insights on their critical role of independent remuneration s, which play a pivotal part in setting councillor allowances and ensuring ability across councils. With the advent of parental leave policies for councillors, our conversation highlights the evolving landscape of local governance. In our discussion, we emphasise the importance of recruiting a diverse Independent Remuneration (IRP) and share effective strategies for attracting a balanced mixture of representatives, especially from younger generations. Mark elaborates on how councils can efficiently manage the IRP process with elements like training , chairing the process and data analysis whilst exploring the offered by South East Employers. We also underscore the annual ' allowance survey—a key resource councils shouldn't ignore and encourage all councils in the region to participate in this initiative to be able to access this comprehensive and enlightening data. If you are a member of SEE and have any questions related to this episode, or any other Governance or HR issues facing your organisation, please get in touch at [email protected] And to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts – we have lots of great episodes coming up in the season

Discover the art of conflict management in public forums with our returning guest, Councillor Minas-Bound from Basingstoke and Deane. Minas-Bound shares how asking the right questions can transform discord into productive dialogue. We discuss the nuances of chairing meetings and why ensuring that every voice is heard is crucial for achieving meaningful outcomes. Get an inside look at common sources of conflict, from community disagreements to overlapping efforts, and gain insight into Minas-Bound's strategies for balancing perspectives and facilitating open dialogue. Engagement with the community is more than just a buzzword—it's a long-term investment in harmony and understanding. We explore the benefits of connecting through both traditional public forums and modern platforms like Facebook and Instagram. Hear about the significance of mediation services and the subtle art of coaching for those tricky conversations. Whether it’s mastering chairing skills or knowing when to step back, this episode is packed with actionable advice. Embrace the discomfort and step into effective governance and public interactions with confidence and clarity. If you are a member of SEE and have any questions related to this episode, or any other Governance or HR issues facing your organisation, please get in touch at [email protected] And to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts – we have lots of great episodes coming up in the season

What if prioritising mental health could transform your career and personal life? us for an enlightening conversation with David Beeney, a former commercial director who has become a ionate advocate for mental health awareness in the workplace. David candidly shares his own story and discusses the often-overlooked mental health challenges faced by local government councillors.   It's easy for councillors to neglect their well-being while tending to others' needs, but recognising early signs of burnout, like fatigue and difficulty concentrating, can be lifesaving. We unpack the vital importance of self-care for those in public service roles, focusing on balanced living to prevent burnout. Using relatable analogies, we emphasise the need for a ive network and offer practical advice for maintaining mental resilience. This episode aims to inspire local government officials and beyond to take their mental health as seriously as their professional responsibilities.  We explore the transformative power of self-comion and the importance of creating ive work environments, fostering genuine connections and regularly checking in with colleagues to build a culture where mental health is a priority. As we conclude, we encourage listeners to practice self-kindness and consider its profound impact on mental health and success. Don't forget to explore our resources and subscribe for more insightful discussions, including our episode on handling conflict within meetings. If you are a member of SEE and have any questions related to this episode, or any other Governance or HR issues facing your organisation, please get in touch at [email protected] And to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts – we have lots of great episodes coming up in the season

Unlock the secrets to transforming local governance and enhancing accessibility with Councillor Knowles, an independent councillor and former mayor from the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead Council. Discover how he improved council meetings, turning them from contentious battlegrounds into constructive arenas. In a candid conversation, Councillor Knowles shares his personal journey, highlighting the impact of his military service-related hearing loss and how technology has empowered him to lead with clarity and inclusivity. Gain insights into the critical role of governance in maintaining ability and how being independent allows him to steer clear of political biases, ensuring fairness in his approach. Explore the remarkable advancements in virtual meeting technology that have revolutionised accessibility, particularly for individuals with hearing impairments. Councillor Knowles reflects on the rapid technological evolution post-COVID-19, which has made council meetings more inclusive and engaging than ever before. Learn from his experiences about the importance of pre-meeting equipment checks and the use of assistive technology in creating an inclusive environment. From practical tips on enhancing auditory experiences to resources ing equality and diversity, this episode promises valuable takeaways for anyone ionate about governance, technology, and accessibility. If you are a member of SEE and have any questions related to this episode, or any other Governance or HR issues facing your organisation, please get in touch at [email protected] And to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts – we have lots of great episodes coming up in the season

What if your community's voice could shape its future? us for a compelling episode of Governance Matters, where we promise you'll uncover the transformative power of community engagement in governance. We welcome back the insightful Councillor Minas-Bound from Basingstoke and Deane, who shares an incredible tale of a community rallying together to build a much-needed primary school. Through this story, we illustrate how curiosity and data can lead to stronger local bonds and effective governance strategies. But the conversation doesn't stop there. We explore the often-overlooked complexities of communication within diverse communities, emphasising the importance of moving beyond stereotypes. Discover how to connect with marginalised groups by understanding their unique dynamics, especially in the wake of challenges posed by technology and the pandemic. We challenge the traditional notions of "hard to reach" and propose innovative ways to engage with "rarely heard" voices, avoiding the fatigue that comes with repetitive surveys. Finally, we delve into the intricacies of effective community engagement strategies, acknowledging the hurdles faced by local governments. Learn why creativity, collaboration, and authenticity are paramount when accessing niche communities and implementing cultural initiatives. We wrap up with a call for transparency and honesty in consultations, encouraging a hands-off approach that empowers community ownership. If this episode has been of interest then please us again when we are ed by Jake Bowers to discuss 'Breaking Through Myths About Gypsy, Roma and Traveller Communities – Why Understanding Difference Matters'. Episode 10 will be available from 3 June 2025.  If you are a member of SEE and have any questions related to this episode, or any other Governance or HR issues facing your organisation, please get in touch at [email protected] And to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts – we have lots of great episodes coming up in the season

Discover the art of effective chairing and governance with Councillor Knowles, the previous Mayor of the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, as he draws from his extensive experience in local government meetings. Councillor Knowles reveals his strategies for creating an environment that encourages participation and curbs hostility, likening his role to that of a ringmaster orchestrating a respectful and constructive dialogue. We unravel his insights on the critical balance of legal knowledge, communication, and listening, which are all pivotal in making informed decisions and leading successful meetings. If you are a member of SEE and have any questions related to this episode, or any other Governance or HR issues facing your organisation, please get in touch at [email protected] And to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts – we have lots of great episodes coming up in the season

What if the key to effective governance isn’t just in the words we choose, but in how we ask questions" method, which serves as a memorable framework for crafting open questions that invite deeper engagement. With her expert insights, we delve into practical questioning techniques, including powerful prompts and the strategic use of silence, to transform governance discussions into meaningful exchanges. Listen in as we address the importance of fairness, empathy, and impartiality in decision-making processes involving sensitive issues.  This episode emphasises maintaining professionalism, respect, and rapport in challenging environments, offering strategies to prevent conflicts and manage emotions. We also discuss the importance of adapting communication styles to encourage open dialogue and how to handle evasive answers with respectful inquiries. Through these insights, you'll gain valuable skills to improve information gathering practices to informed decision making for both individuals and community needs. Tune in now and discover how the right questions can lead to better governance. If you are a member of SEE and have any questions related to this episode, or any other Governance or HR issues facing your organisation, please get in touch at [email protected] And to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts – we have lots of great episodes coming up in the season

me, Kirsty Hunt, for an insightful episode of Governance Matters as we explore the art of deg truly inclusive services. In this conversation, I sit down with Councillor Minas-Bound, the Conservative group leader at Basingstoke and Deane, to discuss how governance can be more than just policies and procedures—it’s about putting people first. We don't just talk about doing things right; we focus on doing the right things, emphasising the human element that often gets lost in bureaucracy. Through a powerful story of a family navigating multiple agencies, we highlight how asking the right questions leads to services that provide real value.  We're also tackling the essential topic of ing LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly transgender people, in escaping domestic abuse. We shed light on the hurdles of providing safe refuges and ensuring services are both accessible and effective. By challenging the status quo and leveraging technology, we can drive meaningful change in service delivery. Listen in and be inspired to rethink how we can collectively enhance governance practices for the better.  If you are a member of SEE and have any questions related to this episode, or any other Governance or HR issues facing your organisation, please get in touch at [email protected] And to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts – we have lots of great episodes coming up in the season

Discover how to be a 21st-century public servant by mastering the blend of professional expertise and leadership qualities. us for an eye-opening conversation with Catherine, a distinguished Professor of Public Management and Leadership at the University of Birmingham, as we uncover transformative insights that could redefine your approach to governance. What role does governance play in building trust with residents? Why is ethical decision-making more crucial now than ever? Catherine offers her perspective, drawing on her rich background as a public servant and an academic, to illuminate the evolving landscape of public service. Explore the pressing challenges of perma-austerity and the demands of an increasingly assertive residents, while delving into the complexities of mega councils and devolution reshaping local governance. In this engaging episode, we also tackle the pressing need for adaptability in public service roles. Learn about the ambidextrous approach required to navigate modern public sector challenges—where innovation meets frugality, and where data curiosity is as crucial as digital comfort. Catherine sheds light on the generational shift as we discuss practical solutions for attracting and retaining Gen Z employees who prioritise values alignment over traditional job security. From fostering dynamic career environments to introducing innovative tools like coaching cards, this episode is packed with strategies to enhance local government effectiveness and foster collaborative dialogues between councillors and officers. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights into creating a forward-thinking, resilient and thriving public service workforce.  If you are a member of SEE and have any questions related to this episode, or any other Governance or HR issues facing your organisation, please get in touch at [email protected] And to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts – we have lots of great episodes coming up in the season What does it mean to be a 21st Century Public Servant? https://21stcenturypublicservant.wordpress.com/updating-the-21st-century-public-servant/   Making a difference? Attracting new generations into local government https://pure-oai.bham.ac.uk/ws/portalfiles/portal/247648512/Making_a_difference_Attracting_new_generations_into_local_government.pdf   How to get the coaching cards: https://21stcenturypublicservant.wordpress.com/21st-century-coaching-cards/