Reach out with eDemocracy
New guide for elected members
The International Centre of Excellence for Local eDemocracy (ICELE) is pleased to announce the launch of a new 'elected member induction guide'. Aimed at new and existing members, it has been created to explain some of the innovative techniques being used to engage citizens and how to leverage the internet for political gain.
Aptly titled 'Reach out with eDemocracy', the guide has been compiled using the experience gained by ICELE and the Local eDemocracy National Project plus regional experts in the North East:
Andrew De'Ath - Programme Manager - North East Connects:
"North East Connects is delighted to have worked with the International Centre of Excellence in authoring the Guide for Elected Members. It's important that Elected Members get to benefit from new technology to play their full part in the democratic process."
The guide draws on support from ICELE board members in the three main political parties and is intended for direct consumption by elected members:
Councillor Matthew Ellis, Staffordshire County Council (Conservative Party):
"Whether it be politicians and Political Parties using the 'e' revolution to campaign more effectively, councils using e-tools to interact better and more efficiently with local people or likeminded community groups setting up e-Forums, modern technology is offering us as elected members an opportunity to do our job better."
"ICELE has published this guide as an introduction to what is possible and above all to explain why we shouldn't be afraid of new technology but use it to enhance our roles and help to reinvigorate participation in our democratic process."
ICELE hopes that councils will incorporate the guide into elected member training programmes and induction packs.
Fraser Henderson, ICELE Centre Manager:
"By empowering elected members in the process of eDemocracy, ICELE hopes to generate new champions who can demand and drive the technology both for personal gain and that of their communities, local authorities and respective political parties"
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