Member Development

London Councils has been promoting the London Member Development Charter (LMDC) since 2006. The LMDC recognises authorities that provide a robust, structured framework designed to help the authority enhance and hone member development.  It is a joint accreditation with LG Improvement and Development (formerly known as IDeA) and valid for three years.  From May 2011, the LMDC will be delivered by South East Employers Opens in a new window on behalf of London Councils.

So far eleven councils have been awarded the Charter:

• L.B Barking & Dagenham
• L.B. Brent
• L.B. Croydon
• L.B. Ealing
• L.B. Harrow
• L.B. Islington
• L.B. Lewisham
• L.B. Merton
• L.B. Richmond upon Thames
• L.B. Southwark
• L.B. Tower Hamlets

If your borough is interested in achieving the Charter, please contact Janine Gill.

There are four elements to the Charter for which evidence needs to be provided.  It is not based on competencies of councillors. 

1. Commitment to member development
2. Strategic approach to member development
3. Learning and development is effective in building capacity
4. Supporting members

A set of templates helps in seeing how much evidence there already is and working out how much more needs to be done against some suggested examples.

• Download the Charter accreditation guidelines Opens in a new window
• Download the Charter self-assessment template Opens in a new window

London Member Development Network 

The London Member Development Network (LMDN) was established to assist preparations for the development of new and existing members after May 2006 elections. The Network’s aim is to kick-start boroughs’ plans for induction of new members, support, initiate and encourage a longer term approach to member development across London boroughs.  It meets three times a year and is currently chaired by Dave Burn, LB Lambeth. Solomon Agutu, LB Croydon is the Vice Chair.

To contact the Network, please email dburn@lambeth.gov.uk or solomon.agutu@croydon.gov.uk