Governance Matters

• Behind the Decisions: Why Resilience in Public Life Matters

  What if prioritising mental health could transform your career and personal life? Join us for an enlightening conversation with David Beeney, a former commercial director who has become a passionate advocate for mental health awareness in the workplace. David candidly shares his own story and discusses the often-overlooked mental health challenges faced by local government councillors.  It's easy for councillors to neglect their well-being while tending to others' needs, but recognising early signs of burnout, like fatigue and difficulty concentrating, can be lifesaving. We unpack the vital importance of self-care for those in public service roles, focusing on balanced living to prevent burnout. Using relatable analogies, we emphasise the need for a supportive network and offer practical advice for maintaining mental resilience. This episode aims to inspire local government officials and beyond to take their mental health as seriously as their professional responsibilities. We explore the transformative power of self-compassion and the importance of creating supportive work environments, fostering genuine connections and regularly checking in with colleagues to build a culture where mental health is a priority. As we conclude, we encourage listeners to practice self-kindness and consider its profound impact on mental health and success. Don't forget to explore our resources and subscribe for more insightful discussions, including our upcoming episode on handling conflict within meetings.If you are a member of SEE and have any questions related to this episode, or any other Governance or HR issues facing your organisation, please get in touch at [email protected] remember to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts – we have lots of great episodes coming up in the season

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• Hearing the debate: why accessibility in meetings matters

  Unlock the secrets to transforming local governance and enhancing accessibility with Councillor Knowles, an independent councillor and former mayor from the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead Council. Discover how he improved council meetings, turning them from contentious battlegrounds into constructive arenas. In a candid conversation, Councillor Knowles shares his personal journey, highlighting the impact of his military service-related hearing loss and how technology has empowered him to lead with clarity and inclusivity. Gain insights into the critical role of governance in maintaining accountability and how being independent allows him to steer clear of political biases, ensuring fairness in his approach.Explore the remarkable advancements in virtual meeting technology that have revolutionised accessibility, particularly for individuals with hearing impairments. Councillor Knowles reflects on the rapid technological evolution post-COVID-19, which has made council meetings more inclusive and engaging than ever before. Learn from his experiences about the importance of pre-meeting equipment checks and the use of assistive technology in creating an inclusive environment. From practical tips on enhancing auditory experiences to resources supporting equality and diversity, this episode promises valuable takeaways for anyone passionate about governance, technology, and accessibility.If you are a member of SEE and have any questions related to this episode, or any other Governance or HR issues facing your organisation, please get in touch at [email protected] remember to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts – we have lots of great episodes coming up in the season

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• Collaboration in Local Governance: Why Community Voices Matter

  What if your community's voice could shape its future? Join us for a compelling episode of Governance Matters, where we promise you'll uncover the transformative power of community engagement in governance. We welcome back the insightful Councillor Minas-Bound from Basingstoke and Deane, who shares an incredible tale of a community rallying together to build a much-needed primary school. Through this story, we illustrate how curiosity and data can lead to stronger local bonds and effective governance strategies.But the conversation doesn't stop there. We explore the often-overlooked complexities of communication within diverse communities, emphasising the importance of moving beyond stereotypes. Discover how to connect with marginalised groups by understanding their unique dynamics, especially in the wake of challenges posed by technology and the pandemic. We challenge the traditional notions of "hard to reach" and propose innovative ways to engage with "rarely heard" voices, avoiding the fatigue that comes with repetitive surveys.Finally, we delve into the intricacies of effective community engagement strategies, acknowledging the hurdles faced by local governments. Learn why creativity, collaboration, and authenticity are paramount when accessing niche communities and implementing cultural initiatives. We wrap up with a call for transparency and honesty in consultations, encouraging a hands-off approach that empowers community ownership.If this episode has been of interest then please join us again when we are joined by Jake Bowers to discuss 'Breaking Through Myths About Gypsy, Roma and Traveller Communities – Why Understanding Difference Matters'. Episode 10 will be available from 3 June 2025. If you are a member of SEE and have any questions related to this episode, or any other Governance or HR issues facing your organisation, please get in touch at [email protected] remember to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts – we have lots of great episodes coming up in the season

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• Effective meetings: Why Chairing Skills Matter

  Discover the art of effective chairing and governance with Councillor Knowles, the previous Mayor of the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, as he draws from his extensive experience in local government meetings. Councillor Knowles reveals his strategies for creating an environment that encourages participation and curbs hostility, likening his role to that of a ringmaster orchestrating a respectful and constructive dialogue. We unravel his insights on the critical balance of legal knowledge, communication, and listening, which are all pivotal in making informed decisions and leading successful meetings.If you are a member of SEE and have any questions related to this episode, or any other Governance or HR issues facing your organisation, please get in touch at [email protected] remember to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts – we have lots of great episodes coming up in the season

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• Asking the Right Way: Why Questioning Style Matters

  What if the key to effective governance isn’t just in the words we choose, but in how we ask questions? Join us on Governance Matters as we unravel the complexities of communication with Lynn Mead, a distinguished local government professional and career transition coach. Together, we uncover the fascinating nuances of body language and tone, exploring how they, alongside word choice, shape the quality of our dialogues and decision-making. Lynn introduces us to the intriguing "five bums on a rugby post" method, which serves as a memorable framework for crafting open questions that invite deeper engagement. With her expert insights, we delve into practical questioning techniques, including powerful prompts and the strategic use of silence, to transform governance discussions into meaningful exchanges. Listen in as we address the importance of fairness, empathy, and impartiality in decision-making processes involving sensitive issues. This episode emphasises maintaining professionalism, respect, and rapport in challenging environments, offering strategies to prevent conflicts and manage emotions. We also discuss the importance of adapting communication styles to encourage open dialogue and how to handle evasive answers with respectful inquiries. Through these insights, you'll gain valuable skills to improve information gathering practices to support informed decision making for both individuals and community needs. Tune in now and discover how the right questions can lead to better governance.If you are a member of SEE and have any questions related to this episode, or any other Governance or HR issues facing your organisation, please get in touch at [email protected] remember to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts – we have lots of great episodes coming up in the season

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