The Local Government Association (LGA) Liberal Democrat Group Next Generation has been developed within the traditions and values of the Liberal Democrat party, drawing on a range of experts to create an unparalleled political development opportunity for participants.
Politics is the lifeblood of local government. At their best, politicians know and understand their communities personally, create aspirations out of local desires, draw compelling pictures of the future and bring people together to achieve great things. But, inspiring local communities and creating a better future for the people and places we represent takes ambitious leadership.
The LGA Liberal Democrat Group Next Generation has been developed within the traditions and values of the Liberal Democrat party, drawing on a range of experts to create an unparalleled political development opportunity for participants.
LGA Liberal Democrat Group Next Generation 2026/27 application form
Who is this for?
Next Generation is a programme for talented and ambitious councillors who have demonstrated potential and would like to build on their skills to progress in a political career.
To apply your council must be in membership of the LGA.
I started Next Gen 20 as a brand new Town and Unitary Councillor. The course has been brilliant, the other trainees have inspired me during every session with their passion and commitment to liberalism. All of the trainers have been great and have really helped me explore my future career in politics. I am now leaving Next Gen 20 as a Unitary Shadow Cabinet Member and Deputy Mayor.
Cllr Kelly Thornton
Next Gen equips councillors with the skills to progress from being an effective local representative to a confident political leader capable of shaping the councils of the future. Whether it’s handling challenging media, confirming leadership style within your group, or defining a clear policy agenda, Next Gen provides the foundations for becoming a competent and effective politician
Cllr Nik Daas
What we offer
This year’s programme will run over three separate modules:
- Module one: In person study visit
- Module two: Online meet and greet day
- Module three: In person reflection weekend
There is no cost to the individual, and the only thing we ask your council to fund is the individual’s travel costs to and from each module. So please make sure you have your council’s agreement to cover this. It is essential that applicants commit to attending each and every module and if an applicant cannot, then unfortunately we will not be able to offer them a place on the course.
How to apply
We offer a limited number of places per year and application is by way of a competitive process.
To apply, please fill out the online form.
As part of the application, we ask applicants to explain why they would like this development opportunity. We also ask for one reference from a political colleague or councillor and for applicants to commit to attend all three modules and undertake all programme work.
Next Generation residential training is available free of charge thanks to funding from the LGA Leadership and Localism Programme. The LGA is unable to cover travel expenses, however this can usually be recovered from your local authority.
We offer a limited number of places per year and application is by way of a competitive process.
If you or anyone you wish to put forward has any questions, please do not hesitate to contact [email protected] in the LGA Liberal Democrat Group Office.
Contact details
[email protected]
Terry Stacy
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 020 7664 3295
The Association of Liberal Democrat Councillors has been commissioned to deliver the programme on behalf of the LGA Liberal Democrat Group and it is funded by UK Government.