Expert support for navigating transitions and new roles
Local elections can bring significant change. New administrations, new leadership teams and new councillors all create fresh opportunities, while also placing additional pressure on councils to adapt quickly and continue delivering for their communities.
Every council will respond in its own way, shaped by local circumstances, political make-up and organisational culture. However, experience shows that learning from others and drawing on proven support can help councils manage these transitions more smoothly and effectively.
Post-election periods are a critical time for councils. They set the tone for political relationships, decision-making and ways of working throughout the electoral cycle.
Investing early in support for both councillors and officers helps establish shared understanding, build trust and strengthen leadership at a time when expectations are high and capacity can be stretched.
The LGA offers a comprehensive range of post-election support designed to help council leaders, councillors and senior officers navigate change and deliver effectively in their roles.
This support is flexible and tailored, recognising that no two councils face the same challenges.
It is delivered through our regional teams and a network of experienced councillor and officer peers who understand the realities of local government leadership.
Our bespoke support and advice is shaped around the specific needs of each council.
This can include help with governance arrangements, organisational leadership, decision-making structures, member-officer relations, and adapting to new political dynamics.
Whether a council is experiencing a change in control, an expanded cohort of new councillors or shifts in leadership roles, targeted advice can help create clarity and confidence during periods of transition.
Peer mentoring is a central element of our offer. Experienced councillors and officers provide one-to-one and small-group mentoring, offering practical insight and reassurance to those stepping into new or expanded roles.
This trusted peer support helps individuals reflect on challenges, develop their leadership approach and build resilience as they navigate the demands of public office.
For councils with new administrations or refreshed political leadership teams, top-team development provides dedicated support for senior political leaders.
These sessions focus on strengthening collective leadership, improving decision-making and clarifying priorities. They create space for leaders to establish how they will work together, set expectations and align political ambition with organisational capacity.
We also deliver a range of councillor leadership programmes, supporting both newly elected and experienced members to develop the skills, knowledge and confidence to be effective community leaders. These programmes cover core leadership competencies while reflecting the evolving role of councillors in complex local systems.
Post-election transitions can be challenging, but they also present an opportunity to reset, strengthen governance and invest in leadership for the future.
Drawing on external support and the experience of peers can help councils make the most of this moment.
- For more information on our support for councillors, please visit our councillor hub. For post-election support and how it can be tailored to your council, please contact your LGA regional team.