Candidates line up for training in real politics

In just over nine weeks, South Norfolk residents go to the polls to elect their district councillors for the next four years.

To prepare them for the challenges of community leadership, South Norfolk Council has organised high level training at 5pm on 5th March. The training will be repeated at 9am on 19th March

Council Chairman Richard Carden, Leader Vivienne Clifford-Jackson, Opposition Leader John Fuller and Scrutiny Chairman Christopher Kemp will be laying down swords and offering their insights, experience, wisdom and humour to potential candidates, in a session not to be missed.

Head of Democratic Services Chris Walton is organising the training along with officer colleagues, including South Norfolk Elections Manager Alex Evans.

The training will not only cover the key big issues facing councils, like the Government's recent White Paper, issues on standards, legal and other duties, it will also provide a unique and valuable view into the world of real politics and local government in South Norfolk.

The elections take place on May 3, and the council has said it wants every winning candidate to hit the ground running on May 4, so that they can immediately begin the process of delivering for their wards and for the wider community of 115,000 people.

Cllr Richard Carden said:

“I am delighted that the Council is offering these training sessions to candidates, of all parties and of none. The more those seeking election know about the Council and local government the more informed the candidates will be and the better the debate during the election campaign.”

Cllr Vivienne Clifford-Jackson said:

"Being a councillor is a rewarding experience and you never know what each day will bring. Being Leader is taxing but you feel you are really making a difference to people's day to day lives often in the small things, but the things which matter to them."

Cllr John Fuller said:

"My work as a Councillor gives me most satisfaction when I can sort-out a long running problem for a local resident when they've almost given up trying. That feels great!"

Councillor Christopher Kemp said:

"A councillor is an ordinary citizen entrusted by his fellow citizens with extraordinary responsibilities on their behalf. However, most of the rules are common sense and the officers are always willing to assist councillors in keeping to the straight and narrow.

"The training being offered by the Council to potential candidates can only help by allowing candidates to put their names forward in the knowledge of what may be involved."

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