This course will look in detail at the LGA’s Model Councillor Code of Conduct, exploring its main requirements relating to (1) standards of behaviour of councillors and (2) the registration/ declaration of interests. The course will examine the main provisions of the Code, drawing on the LGA’s guidance, and will compare the new Code with previous provisions councils may have had in place. The course should assist councils who have already adopted the new Code (in understanding its practical application) as well as updating those authorities who are currently considering its adoption.

Delegates will have the opportunity to discuss mini scenarios and explore some tricky issues in relation to the Code. The course is aimed at Monitoring Officers, DMOs and all officers with a role in upholding member standards. It will also be of interest and use to elected members.

The training will be led by Bethan Evans, an experienced local government lawyer who specialises in training for officers and members on governance issues.

About the speaker:

Bethan Evans

Bethan Evans Governance Training and Consultancy

Beth is a recognised expert in local authority governance, having worked in the field for over 35 years. She worked as an in-house lawyer for nearly 20 years at four different councils in England specialising in housing, education and social care. Beth then moved into management posts, culminating in roles as a County Solicitor and a Director of Corporate Services in a unitary authority.

Beth led the Welsh Local Government Agency responsible for improvement and development in Welsh local government for three years. In 2001 she joined Bevan Brittan LLP as a partner where she led the local government team for 17 years, four of which she spent as senior partner.

Beth acted as secretary and chair of a branch and then as national chair of the (then) Local Government Group in 1998/99.