Issue - meetings

To consider a recommendation from Cabinet in respect of the adoption of a suite of policies to encourage candidates to stand for election as councillors and to provide enhanced support to Elected Members.

Further to Minute No. 43 of the Cabinet held on 16^th September, 2019, consideration was given to the report which detailed the outcome of a Members’ Working Group reviewing carers, maternity and paternity arrangements for Councillors with the aim of encouraging the next generation of women to play their part in politics in Rotherham.

The Working Group’s recommendations had formed a policy document proposing amendment to the Members’ Allowance Scheme to take account of the adoption of the policy.  The logic underpinning the policy was that improved arrangements for new parents would contribute towards increasing the diversity of experience, age and background of local authority Councils.  It was also written with a view to retaining experienced Councillors, especially women, and making public office more accessible to individuals who might otherwise feel excluded from it.

Councillors Carter, Cusworth, Hoddinott, Napper and Simpson spoke in favour of the recommendations and wished to place on record their thanks to the Members of the Working Group.  This suite of documents would provide support for Councillors not only with caring responsibilities, but those with disabilities and a terminal illness to fully participate.

Resolved:-  (1)  That the amendment to the Members’ Allowances Scheme be amended (Appendix 8 of the Constitution), subject to the receipt of the recommendations from the Independent Remuneration Panel.

(2) That the policies to support Elected Members in respect of parental leave, disabilities, arrangements for carers and dignity in dying be approved and be adopted, subject to the amendment to the Members’ Allowances Scheme.

Mover:-  Councillor Watson                       Seconder:-  Councillor Short

Report of the Assistant Chief Executive

Recommendations:-

1.      That the Council be recommended to amend the Members’ Allowances Scheme (Appendix 8 of the Constitution), subject to the receipt of the recommendations from the Independent Remuneration Panel

2.      That the policies to support Elected Members in respect of parental leave, disabilities,  ...  view the full agenda text for item 43

Consideration was given to the report which detailed the outcome following the establishment of a working group of Members to review carers, maternity and paternity arrangements for Councillors, with the aim encouraging the next generation of women to play their part in politics in Rotherham.

The report presented the recommendations  ...  view the full minutes text for item 43