Enhancing Local Democracy Conference 2010
On 16 July 2010, SEE held their annual Enhancing Local Democracy Conference at Local Government House, London. The day comprised keynote speakers, a variety of interactive workshops and a number of exhibition stands for delegates to browse. It proved to be an excellent day attracting over 80 officers and members from a variety of regions including the South East and London Boroughs.
After a warm welcome by the SEE Chairman Cllr Rory Love, keynote speaker Tony Bovaird captivated his audience, “informative, candid and relevant”. Professor of Public Management and Policy, INLOGOV at the University of Birmingham, Tony discussed the Big Society agenda and how citizens and local government can drive public sector improvement. The notions of self organisation and co-production were considered, whilst innovation and public involvement were proffered as positive concepts to take forward.
Tony Bovaird - Driving the Next Public Services Revolution 
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Delegates were delighted to have Bob Neill MP, Parliamentary under Secretary of State, attending the conference, “good to hear central government views on the way forward”. He spoke about “taking up the challenge of this new Coalition government and thinking seriously about how you can work differently within your local areas in the context of localism and Big Society”. The Minister discussed localism and the “fundamental shift in the balance of power” and promoted the idea that people must have a genuine voice, a reason to get involved and a sense of responsibility for their neighbourhood. Looking to the future, he promised the devolution of greater powers to councils and neighbourhoods with public transparency and accountability. Bob Neill MP ended his speech with his most important point “we've got to use this opportunity to usher in not just a shift of power but of culture”. The full speech can be found on the CLG website.
Delegates heard from Andrew Summers, South Bank University, who informed councillors about the Postgraduate Certificate in Local Governance. The last presentation of the morning was given by Kirstin McLarty, Ipsos MORI, who explored the top ten tips on priority setting with the public.
Andrew Summers - Certificate in Local Governance 37Kb
Dr Kirstin McLarty - Tough Decisions - Top Ten Tips on Priority-Setting 581Kb
Appearing on the conference platform in the afternoon were Cllr Roger Gough and Tanya Oliver. Speaking about Kent County Council piloting the Total Place initiative, they looked to the future where political leadership and behavioural change will be key principles.
Cllr Gough and Tanya Oliver - Bold Steps for Kent 4Mb
Delegates were invited to attend a workshop session in the morning, topic choices included how social media can help, the twenty first century councillor, and innovative member development. Afternoon workshops sessions comprised effective working with councillors, what scrutiny looks like now, and the role of the LSP. “The workshops were a good opportunity to raise issues of current concern / thinking”.
Catherine Howe - Local Democracy: How Social Media can help Support the Representative 2Mb
Bridget Harris - Twenty First Century Councillor
Clive Parker and John Austin - Effective Working with Councillors 46Kb
Adam Pickering - Scrutiny: What Does This Look Like Now? 1Mb
James Moody and Sian Campbell - The Role of the Local Strategic Partnership 1Mb
Cllr Rory Love closed with a summary of the day, and thanks were given to all those who attended.
Comments from the day:
“Was really interesting and thought provoking.”
“Inspirational…”
“Excellent event - now enthused to go back and implement!”
“…very informative.“
“Enjoyed the day!”
“I found the whole day extremely useful.”
“Keep up the good exchange of information and ideas.”
For further information, please contact Helen Looker.