It is important to understand what the barriers are for some councillors in order that they can be overcome . The DETR's paper - Modernising local government. Each role could be supported by effective participation. The executive role is focused on providing leadership, setting priorities, developing vision, budgeting, decision-making, and partnership building. In all of these areas effective participation could make a contribution.
Good leadership requires a capacity to inform and explain.
The setting of priorities, budgets, and decision-making needs a capacity to listen and learn from others through deliberative polling, budget 'sounding boards' and a range of other techniques. Equally, developing vision, selecting budget priorities and launching and sustaining effective partnerships requires a capacity to exchange ideas, suggestions and resources. Good leadership implies a commitment to participation. The scrutiny role can cover a range of activities. It might involve the debate of policy proposals.