Page header image

About Us

The Standards Commission is an independent body whose purpose is to encourage high ethical standards in public life through the promotion and enforcement of Codes of Conduct for councillors and those appointed to the boards of devolved public bodies.

Standards Commission / Improvement Service - joint webinars

4th January 2024

You are invited to join two webinars hosted by the Improvement Service (IS) and the Standards Commission on following the ethical standards of public life when engaging with the public.

The webinars will cover the key issues elected members need to be aware of when engaging with the public, including guidance around the use of language, data protection and confidentiality contained in the Councillors' Code of Conduct.

The first webinar will provide an overview of the key points that elected members should be aware of when engaging with the public, including some common pitfalls.

The second webinar will focus specifically on the use of social media to engage with constituents, as that comes with its own opportunities and challenges. Elected members will hear examples of good practice in using social media, but also what can go wrong if ethical standards are not upheld.

Elected members can attend the second webinar without attending the first, though it is recommended to attend both as each webinar will have its own specific learning outcomes. The webinars are being held at the following times, and presentations will be recorded and made available on the IS website:

Following the ethical standards of public life when engaging with the public – Wednesday 24th January, 10.00-11.30am

Following the ethical standards of public life when using social media – Friday 2nd February, 10.00-11.30am

Register for the webinars here: https://forms.office.com/e/01CRZWDp2h