SOUTH Lakeland District Council (SLDC) has been recognised for its commitment to enhancing the skills of its local councillors.

The council has received the Level One Review Charter for Elected Member Development by North West Employers, a not for profit organisation which is committed to improving public services.

SLDC was assessed on how it improves councillors’ skills and knowledge to best enable them to represent the communities they serve.

Achieving the charter means that the council meets five key priorities, including ensuring councillors are aware of learning and development opportunities, identifying development needs and having the right strategies in place to meet those needs.

In their final report the assessors concluded: “It is clearly evident that South Lakeland District Council is seeking to continually improve their councillors’ development provision. There is a clear, structured approach and opportunities are in place for councillors to develop their skills and knowledge.

“Councillors felt involved and supported in the process and that there is two-way communication in respect of identifying development needs and requesting support.’’

The report also mentioned there was ‘a real strength about customers being at the heart of the organisation’ and the members had a ‘strong sense of clarity around the strategic vision and direction of the organisation.’

Councillor Brenda Gray, chair of SLDC’s Member Services Steering Group, said: “We are delighted to have received this charter award.

“It recognises the council’s excellent approach to member development and how we are supported to move with the times and learn new skills."

The charter award was presented to SLDC by Gillian Bishop, Chief Executive of North West Employers.