The first choice for elected member development

Over 25 years providing lively, practical and interactive training for thousands of councillors and officers 

Led by David McGrath, former councillor and veteran member trainer, Link provides practical training for elected members of Councils, Police and Crime Panels, Fire Authorities - and now Combined Authorities too!
Link has a large range of virtual and 'in person' short courses built specifically for councillors and delivered by expert trainers at your Council offices.  These include:
  • CHAIRING  skills
  • Training for PLANNING and LICENSING committee members (including Appeals Sub-Committee)
  • CASEWORK and ADVOCACY skills
  • PERSONAL SAFETY TRAINING (understanding and managing the risks of public office)
  • PRACTICAL EQUALITIES
  • COMMITTEE SKILLS
  • SCRUTINY skills
  • Coaching for new MAYORS and CHAIRS of Council
  • SOCIAL MEDIA (safe and confident use)
  • PUBLIC SPEAKING skills
  • LOCAL GOVERNMENT FINANCE made easier
  • BUDGET SCRUTINY
  • CODE OF CONDUCT training for councillors
  • ENFORCEMENT issues in the ward
  • PORTFOLIO and LEADERSHIP COACHING 
  • MEDIA SKILLS
  • CHAMBER SKILLS (for Full Council)
  • SPEED READING
  • Select 'COURSES FOR COUNCILLORS' for more details 
'Hi David

I just wanted to reiterate what I said at the end of today’s training.  Never before in my entire working life have I ever felt so engaged, and so enjoyed training sessions! 

I have genuinely learnt a wealth of useful knowledge, tips and information today that I am so grateful to have received so early on in my first ever term as a councillor and I very much hope to see you again soon at our Council! 
Many thanks again' 
(District councillor) Re-published with kind permission
David McGrath Link Support Services












Meet David McGrath 


He is:


Managing Director of Link

A veteran trainer of councillors (28th year)

A former councillor (8 years)

A Chartered Fellow of the Institute of Personnel Development

A graduate of Politics and History (BA Hons)


David was recently recognised for 'exceptional services to human resources and people development for over 20 years'  (Chartered Institute of Personnel Development)

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We are always happy to provide friendly, no obligation advice to colleagues in Democratic or Member Services or HR if they are considering how best to meet members' development needs.  Call David McGrath for a chat on 01676 522775
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