Public Engagement Skills for Local Government

Public engagement training is not about spin. It is about strengthening democratic dialogue.

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Course Details

Public engagement training is not about spin. It is about strengthening democratic dialogue. In a climate where public trust in institutions is fragile, strong communication leadership makes a measurable difference.

This highly practical one-day course equips councillors and senior leaders with the skills, confidence and techniques to engage effectively with residents, stakeholders, and the media, particularly when facing challenge or scrutiny.

The training is interactive, scenario-based and tailored to the issues facing your authority, such as housing and planning decisions, social care, regeneration and climate commitments.

This course will ensure that your councillors and executives can explain complex policies, manage strong public opinion, and communicate clearly across public meetings, social media and local press, strengthening democratic leadership.

They learn how to demonstrate leadership and protect your reputation during public meetings. Public meetings can be recorded and shared online within minutes and social media can amplify criticism quickly. We show how to demonstrate strong leadership, develop effective listening skills and keep cool at times of potential conflict or when being pushed for an immediate comment.

What to expect

The full day course is divided into two sessions, a short theory session followed by a much longer practical session, interspersed with tips and advice. You will participatein a series of practical, tailored exercises, that are recorded, reviewed and analysed.

Our courses are tailored to each participant. Pre course questionnaires are sent out before to help us tailor the training. We can take a maximum of six participants per course. We send out pre course questionnaires to help us tailor the training so that you get exactly what you need from the day.

Who should attend?

  • CEOs and Council Leaders
  • Directors and Senior Managers
  • Senior Officers and Cabinet Members
  • Key Spokespeople
  • Anyone who is interested in strengthening democratic leadership

You will learn

  • That public engagement is not about delivering defensive responses
  • How to build trust with residents
  • Explain difficult or unpopular decisions with confidence
  • Manage challenging questions constructively
  • Reduce reputational risk
  • Develop active Listening skills
  • How to acknowledge concerns without escalating conflict
  • How to frame messages clearly and consistently
  • How to stay calm when challenged by hostile questions
  • Deliver key messages effectively
  • That public engagement is not about delivering defensive responses
  • Build trust with residents
  • Demonstrate leadership under pressure

All Participants Receive

 

  • A recording of all performances
  • Workshop handouts
  • Written confidential feedback, if required
  • A certificate of attendance, if required

Book This Course








    Call us now on 01628 474 154 to discuss the best option for your organisation.

    Need something different?

    We deliver tailored training across the UK and internationally.

    If you have three or more people who require this course, ask us about an in-house training programme. It will be more cost effective, and save you the effort of travelling.

    Get in touch or call us now to discuss the best option for your organisation.

    Tel: 01628 474154
    enquiries@mediafriendly.org