Liberal Democrat Next Generation programme

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.

Lib Dem Next Generation banner - June 2022

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.

Download the LGA Liberal Democrat Group Next Generation 2023/2024 leaflet


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.

The LGA Next Gen Course not only reaffirmed my pathway in politics but gave me the skills, support and friendships to progress in my political ambitions. I am truly grateful for this inspiring course, and our wonderful mentor and leader. 

 

Sally Povolotsky

 

 

The last eight months have been a whirlwind and the foundations I learnt on Next Gen have guided and steered me towards my goals, which I’ve achieved. I recommend the course to everyone who listens and am grateful for the connections made.”- Sally Povolotsky, Liberal Democrat Councillor, Oxfordshire County Council

The Lib Dem Next Generation programme was exactly what I needed to help me take the next steps on my councillor journey. It encourages you to think about where you want to go, which skills you can develop, where you are perhaps in need of some boosting or refreshing, and also when you need to give yourself some praise for things already achieved.

Sebastian Field

 

 

You have an unparalleled access to mentors, resources and best practice, and you make a brilliant new group of friends who support you along the way with help, advice and cheerleading."  - Sebastian Field, Liberal Democrat Councillor, Gloucester City Council

 

What we offer

The programme will consist of three residential training modules over the course of two days each. The modules aim to:

  • raise awareness of the different styles and approaches to political leadership
  • help participants understand a distinctive Liberal Democrat approach to policy and governance
  • enable participants to define their ‘vision’ for their council/ward/group
  • increase confidence and awareness of the importance of communication and media skills 
  • help participants know more about their own personal strengths and weaknesses as a community and political leader 
  • develop participants’ understanding of the practical strategies to policy-making and best practice in Liberal Democrat groups and councils.

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.

Deadline for receipt of applications is 21 July 2023

Contact details

[email protected]

020 7664 3235 or

Terry Stacy [email protected]

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.