Tower Hamlets Council's Standards Advisory Committee has reviewed its strategy for member conduct, focusing on enhancing councillor training and addressing a rise in complaints. The committee met on Thursday, March 12, 2026, to discuss key areas including the Member Induction Programme, the Register of Interests, and the Members' Code of Conduct.
A significant portion of the discussion centred on the upcoming Member Induction Programme for 2026, designed to prepare councillors for the local elections in May. This programme will equip both new and returning councillors with essential administrative, training, and informational resources. Developed with input from the Local Government Association (LGA) and referencing other London authorities' plans, best practices retained include pre-election and election count day communication, an initial welcome evening to meet senior officers, and administrative registration. New elements include engaging professional external trainers, shifting the programme's focus towards practical skills rather than service area briefings, strengthening corporate sign-off, and creating a 'welcome brochure' with key information and guidance for new Members.
The 2026 Member Induction Programme will include administrative tasks such as collecting IDs and updating the website, a comprehensive training schedule, and seminars designed to familiarize councillors with the council's operations and priorities. The training, running from May to July, covers a wide array of topics, from political culture and ethics to specific committee functions and IT skills, with a focus on developing practical skills. Mandatory training sessions are identified, and a personal development plan process is included to shape ongoing training needs.
The committee also reviewed quarterly updates on the Register of Interests and declarations of gifts and hospitality. For the period of November 24, 2025, to February 28, 2026, two declarations were received concerning gifts of wine from the Chinese Embassy, both of which were declined.
A report on Members' Code of Conduct matters revealed an increase in complaints as the election approaches. The most common theme remains concern about the timeliness of Members' responses to constituents, suggesting a significant portion of the increase is related to councillors not responding promptly. As of February 11, 2026, eighteen complaints had been lodged since the start of the municipal year, with eight carried over from the previous year.
One complaint from the 2024/2025 municipal year remains open, pending the outcome of a criminal trial adjourned to September 2026. This complaint, reference number 009/2024, concerns allegations of harassment and threatening behaviour. The Council's Code of Conduct process is on hold until the conclusion of the external police investigation.
Furthermore, the committee reviewed the draft Member Learning and Development Strategy for 2026-2030. This strategy aims to support the development of all elected members, covering mandatory training, specific roles, and the provision of online and in-person training opportunities. A Member Learning and Development certificate will be available for any Member who completes the core Ward Councillor training sessions, including all mandatory training. The idea of an externally certified member development certificate or diploma is also being explored for after the Induction programme.
The strategy is also being updated to include a new mentoring offer for individuals and groups, providing ongoing support and guidance. Mentoring can be arranged through the LGA for experienced mentors, with alternative providers also available.
The committee also examined the draft Annual Report for the municipal year May 2025 to May 2026, which provides an overview of the committee's activities and highlights relevant issues for the Council's consideration. The report detailed the committee's membership, meetings, and key areas of business, including complaint monitoring, dispensations, gifts and hospitality, member attendance, and the Member Learning and Development Programme. It also touches upon government consultations on the Member Code of Conduct and the annual review of the Code of Conduct. Specific recommendations for the Council's consideration will be detailed within the final Annual Report, to be submitted to Council early in the new municipal year.
Public reports pack 12th-Mar-2026 16.00 Standards Advisory Committee
