Training and Support
Helping to guide a multi-billion pound organisation can be really rewarding, but to get the most out of it you’ll want to be prepared!
Our support starts before you even stand for election. We realise that members will have a lot of questions to ask and want to understand fully what being an elected member is all about before we guide you through the election process.
Once a newly elected member, our national induction will introduce you to your new role. After the induction you’ll understand the skills and knowledge you’ll need to be an effective committee member.
Ongoing training and development is offered with a range of learning opportunities from understanding accounts, public speaking and the Group’s governance processes, to being effective in meetings. You can attend training courses online, at various locations, or at our summer and winter schools where you can complete several courses in one week!
Payment for elected members
Committee members receive an annual fee, and can claim for expenses and subsistence, in line with The Co-operative Group’s expenses policy. Committee members also get a staff discount card which can be used at The Co-operative Food stores and across the Group.
In addition, there is a carer’s policy enabling those with caring responsibilities to claim expenses incurred when on Group business. If you are an employee of The Co-operative Group, there is also a policy relating to time off work relating to committee duties.