Political Mentoring

Whilst mentoring can be commonplace for officers it often isn't for councillors. When councillors get elected chances are:

• They may know very little about most council services
• They still have a full time job
• They are now expected to be 'available' to the local community 24/7
• They have family commitments and need a quality work/life balance
• They may now need to do social media or appear in the local press

It can be daunting to try and learn all the services and processes that you now need to know, however, councils can, and do, run a programme of excellent briefings to help.

But who helps with the other parts? Who helps the councillor still manage their work/home/council life? Who explains what 'available' really should mean for them and helps them deal with the pressures? Do they have someone that understands the pressures, but can be objective? 

Then what happens when they step up into position with a special responsibility allowance and are key to decision making. Who helps them ensure they they are able to effective challenge whilst working closely with professional officers? Who listens whilst they make decisions about their career both inside and outside the council? Who helps the build the relationships they need to succeed for their residents?

A political mentor is someone who has "been there, seen it all and bought the t-shirt"; who can share their experience without saying that is the only way; listen to the problems and be objective not personally knowing those involved. It is not formal coaching, but a confidential space for a councillor with someone who has shared experiences.