Events Calendar

Understanding Assertion 10 & Data Compliance for Councillors

This focused 75-minute webinar provides councillors with a clear understanding of their responsibilities under Assertion 10 and how good governance, transparency and data-handling practices underpin compliant council operations. Building on key principles from Part 1, the session offers a concise but practical overview of the risks councils face, the controls required to address them, and the specific role councillors play in ensuring that systems, policies and behaviours meet modern standards.

The course explores what Assertion 10 actually requires, how councils evidence compliance, and how councillors can confidently scrutinise arrangements such as IT systems, data storage, passwords, councillor email addresses, device use, retention practices and third-party risks. It also clarifies how governance failures emerge and what proactive steps councillors can take to prevent them—particularly in smaller councils with limited infrastructure.

Course focus includes:

• The purpose of Assertion 10 and why councillors have oversight responsibilities

• Key risks: data breaches, insecure systems, unregulated devices, and non-compliant email practices

• What “appropriate controls” look like for councils of all sizes

• Understanding the Data Asset Register, retention schedules and evidence requirements

• Councillor duties: secure communication, confidentiality, device hygiene and information handling

• Identifying gaps and asking the right questions to support your Clerk and strengthen compliance

Designed for councillors seeking a practical and accessible introduction to their role in digital governance, this session supports improved risk management, clearer accountability and stronger Assertion 10 outcomes.

Chairmanship Skills Part 1: Leading Councils from Agenda to Decision

Course description

The role of Chairman carries important statutory responsibilities and requires a careful balance of leadership, neutrality, procedural knowledge and people skills. This practical course supports both new and experienced Chairs and Vice-Chairs in leading effective, lawful and well-managed council meetings.

At the heart of the session is the concept of One Fluid Motion – a simple but powerful framework that helps Chairs guide council business smoothly from proposal and seconding through discussion, amendment, voting and recording. Participants will explore how effective chairing is not about controlling debate, but about creating the conditions for clear, inclusive and well-structured decision-making.

This course is ideal for newly appointed or aspiring Chairs and Vice-Chairs, who want a deeper understanding of effective meeting management, and more experienced Chairs looking to deepen their insight, strengthen their confidence and develop practical tools for leading calm, inclusive, efficient and effective meetings.