Discussing the future and the benefits of coaching

The weeks seem to be flying by as we accelerate towards Christmas. And we’ve already had a taste of the winter to come with an evening of flooding recently where a number of us were involved on several sites across the county. I’m hoping for the driest winter on record after a lovely summer!

Earlier this week we spent some time with the leader and her deputy discussing future strategic direction and policy for the organisation. Although we face many more years of financial austerity, and its natural to want to focus on this, it’s the wrong thing to concentrate on. We have to focus on what we do have to spend (broadly the same amount of money we had 5 years ago for the record) and how we maximise the value of that expenditure for the communities and people we represent or work for. It’s a time for thinking differently, taking some big risks around the social, political and economic policy areas in which most of us work and above all delivering for our communities and customers. We have some bold ideas around these areas which I find compelling and exciting.

Last week I spoke to a group of staff, who as well as their day jobs spend timing coaching and supporting other staff to develop. We now have over 60 qualified coaches / coaches in training and they are working with over 200 coachees from across the organisation. Individual learning and development is vital, especially during times of major change and these coaches, together with management more widely provide a strong and important part of our learning culture. If you’re curious, want to know more or become involved either as a coach or coachee please speak with Amanda Collyer. I am currently coaching or mentoring six members of staff from all levels in the organisation. It's rewarding two way learning for me.

I’m excited that tonight’s “Any Questions”, one of my favourite Radio 4 programmes, is coming from Calne. After the by-election results earlier this morning it should be a great political debate. And over the weekend I shall by rebuilding my bike with a few winter upgrades that I’ve planned…

Speak again soon. For daily updates, discussion, personal opinion, comment or just to connect or keep in touch you can follow me on Twitter at http://twitter.com/#!/drcarltonbrand.

Carlton