This one-hour session introduces Democratic Services Officers to the practical use of Microsoft Co-pilot as a supportive tool for minute writing. Through live demonstration and explanation, the session shows how Co-pilot can help summarise information, shape draft text, and improve clarity — while still relying on the officer’s professional judgement, accuracy, and understanding of the meeting. Although the seminar is delivered using Microsoft Co-pilot, some of the prompting approaches discussed may also be relevant to other AI tools. These will be acknowledged at a high level without forming part of the core training.

By the end of the session, participants will:

• Understand how Co-pilot can assist with preparing and refining minutes
• Reinforce key minute writing principles
• Learn practical, adaptable prompting techniques suitable for minute taking
• Watch a guided demonstration using realistic mock scenarios
• Build confidence in using AI as a supportive aid while maintaining full professional oversight

Audience

This session is demonstration led and suitable for Democratic Services Officers at all levels. It provides a supportive space to explore how AI can be used appropriately in a local government context.

Amanda Dickinson

Amanda is Democratic Services Team Leader at Boston Borough Council and an experienced trainer with over 20 years’ experience across private and public sectors. She has a strong background in governance, committee management, and member support, and previously worked as a Modern.Gov Trainer delivering system training to local authorities nationwide. Amanda now runs an independent Democratic Services Consultancy, offering bespoke training, governance advice, and committee management solutions. Amanda holds the NVQ Level 4 in Democratic Services, a predecessor to the current ADSO qualifications, and is passionate about supporting professionals to develop confidence and skills in democratic processes, with particular expertise in virtual training environments. Amanda brings strong political awareness, excellent stakeholder engagement skills, and a proven ability to communicate effectively through public speaking, formal reporting, and national networking.

Date and time

26th May 2026, 09.30 – 10.30 am

Cost

• ADSO Member rate – £50 + VAT per person to attend the course
• Non-ADSO Member rate – £75 + VAT per person to attend the course
• Terms and conditions for booking can be found here.  

Booking requirements

• A purchase order number is required for all bookings made out to ADSO (please see note above).  Courses cannot be attended if a purchase order is not received.
• A hardcopy of the purchase order is required.
• Please provide us with your ADSO Membership number (if applicable)
• A few days after booking you will receive a calendar invite for the workshop(s).  Please note that your email address will be visible to all participants unless you advise us otherwise.
• Please send the above information to adsotraining@emcouncils.gov.uk.