Agenda item

Resolved:

It is recommended that members agree:

(a) That an annual survey be conducted with all elected members between November 2024 and January 2025.

(b) The content of the annual survey based on the draft attached at appendix 1.

(c) That the survey be conducted on a 1:1 basis by Democratic Services staff.

Officers provided members with an overview of the report contained within the agenda pack.

Members asked if the previous year’s survey was conducted on a one to one basis.

Officers confirmed that the survey was conducted on a one to one basis for the last few years; this approach provided richer data from members. Based on the feedback obtained, it is hoped that members have confidence that services can be adapted and improved.

Members enquired what had changed as a result of last year's survey.

Officers confirmed that the feedback received, informed the training and development programme. Previously, members had requested budget scrutiny training, which has now been included in the training programme. The results of the survey are reported back to this committee for the recommendations to be followed through.

The Head of Legal and Democratic Services advised members that feedback from the previous annual survey resulted in the development of a Task & Finish Group to look at handling harassment abuse and intimidation for councillors. The survey is a learning opportunity for officers and members to identify areas for improvement. Members were encouraged to promote within their group meetings, members taking part in the survey and provide honest feedback so that any issues can be addressed.

Resolved: It is recommended that members agree:

(a) That an annual survey be conducted with all elected members between November 2024 and January 2025.

(b) The content of the annual survey based on the draft attached at appendix 1.

(c) That the survey be conducted on a 1:1 basis by Democratic Services staff.