Councillor Champions exist to
provide a voice for traditionally under-represented groups, or issues which
need to be kept at the forefront of Council business although they may not be
the responsibility of any individual or Committee.
Councillor Champions, (sometimes called Lead Members or Member
Champions) in addition to their other Council responsibilities make sure that
the issue or group that they are championing are taken
into account when Council policy is being developed and decisions are made.
Councillors can act as champions in a number of areas such as Anti Poverty, Biodiversity, Children, Equalities, Health
Improvement, Homelessness, Member Support & Development, Older People,
Scrutiny and Young People. This list is not exhaustive.
Councillor Champions are appointed by the Leader of the
Council.
Typically, the Councillor Champion will:
· Make sure that their area of
interest is taken into account when developing policy or making decisions;
· Ask questions about performance
and resourcing for the area;
· Raise the profile of the area
and make the authority aware of good practice;
· Engage with external bodies who
work in the area;
· Engage with other officers and
members in relation to the role;
· Engage with community groups
with an interest / stake in the area;
· Report action to the Councillors
via Council, other relevant body or electronically.