Future Local Lab
Local Government Explained
Local Elections England: 2026
Overview
This three-hour session, delivered online via Zoom or Teams, has been developed for Officers and Managers who chair meetings as part of their role.
The aim of the programme is to provide participants with tips and techniques associated with being a skilled chair of virtual, physical and hybrid meetings. It provides a useful refresher for experienced chairs and a vital introduction for those who are new to the role.
Key outcomes
- Identify the role and responsibilities for being an effective chair
- Describe the skills needed for the meeting to achieve its outcomes
- Plan and prepare for a meeting
- Open a meeting and set the scene
- Encourage participation
- Keep the meeting on track
- Manage conflict within the meeting
- Close the meeting positively.
Who should attend
Staff/officers and managers who want to develop more effective chairing skills.
Trainer
Mrs. Miranda Smythe
LGIU Trainer
Miranda Smythe has 30 years of experience helping organisations (mainly local governments) identify learning gaps and develop tailored, creative strategies to address their goals. Miranda is also involved in local community development activities and provides mental health awareness sessions for many not-for-profit organisations. She is chair of a local homelessness charity and has been instrumental in developing and facilitating community leadership initiatives in Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire.
A lot of great nuggets to help with my chairing journey. In particular, how to deal with conflict and language to use. Miranda spoke very clearly and calmly making the meeting seem very quick. All information was on topic.
