Managing Challenging Situations in Council Settings 

Challenging behaviours and difficult dynamics can disrupt meetings, affect working relationships, and expose councils to legal and reputational risk. Knowing how to respond in a confident, proportionate, and lawful way is an essential skill for those involved in council governance.

This practical and thought-provoking session provides clear guidance on recognising and managing challenging situations involving councillors, both within meetings and in wider council interactions. It explores the different ways conduct issues may arise, how to identify patterns of concern, and why early, proportionate action is important.

The session introduces a clear, stepped approach to managing situations, offering practical options that range from informal resolution through to more structured responses. It also highlights the risks of inaction or misjudgement.

A key part of the session examines the Harvey v Ledbury case, helping councils understand the legal context, boundaries of acceptable conduct, and the lessons it provides for good governance and decision making.

Designed to support clerks, chairs and councillors alike, this training will help you to:

• Recognise challenging behaviours and conduct in meetings and outside of formal meetings
• Understand different behavioural dynamics and interpersonal issues
• How to take appropriate action using a proportionate, stepped approach
• Understand risks, responsibilities, and key legal considerations, including Harvey v Ledbury
• Promote a safe and respectful working environment
• Maintain professionalism and support effective governance
• Navigate challenging situations with confidence and clarity
• Protect your council’s reputation

This is essential training for councils committed to maintaining high standards of conduct, lawful decision-making and constructive working relationships.

Delivered by: James Corrigan, CHRGS

James is a Chartered HR Professional, Lawyer, and Manager with over 30 years’ experience in local government. As a former Town Clerk and Head of Paid Service at three large councils, he brings deep operational insight and sector-wide credibility. Since 2021, he has led Councils HR and Governance Support, advising over 100 councils on organisational reviews, investigations, recruitment, job evaluation, and settlement agreements—delivered with strategic clarity, legal rigour, and a collaborative, people-focused approach.

Running time:   2 hours approximately depending on Q&A

Remote Access: Joining instructions will be issued closer to the time

Cancellation: A full refund will be given if 14 days or more notice prior to the date of the training course is given. However, this could cause an event to be cancelled if it becomes uneconomic to run.

Members £50 per ticket

Associate County Association Members: £50 per ticket

Non-members £100 per ticket