NEW and existing councillors are to be given more support and training, members of Milford Haven Town Council have decided.

Following a call by Cllr Guy Woodham to explore options for training similar to those offered at county hall, members agreed that all councillors could benefit from a bit of help.

Cllr Woodham said training would mean councillors were better equipped to deal with “more contentious issues”, and that it would make them “more efficient in the role”.

Mayor Cllr Yvonne Southwell agreed with the proposal, saying she had benefited from training with other organisations in the past.

Cllr Tony Miles said a lot of new members were “put off” continuing in their role because they weren’t sure what to do or say at meetings.

“They come in here and they’re like lost souls,” he said.

A suggestion by Cllr Stephen Joseph to put together ‘induction programmes’ for new councillors was welcomed, and Cllr Rhys Sinnett added that being given a ‘mentor’ would also be of benefit to less experienced members.

“We want to make the council as approachable as possible,” added Cllr Woodham.

The council will also be contacting training providers to look at further options for progression.