New service has been created to support authorities in use of social media
The Local Government Association (LGA) has launched an online hub named Digital Councils for authorities to obtain guidance on using social media.
It is located on the LGA's website and is divided into three sections. 'Get started' includes a basic guide, some tips and principles, a 'mythbuster' and how to use social media during election purdah.
'Go further' takes in guidance on using Twitter, Facebook and Google, tasks and tools, checklists and case studies for councillors and officers. 'Connect' comprises an A-Z of councils with their social media presence, some examples of best practice and useful links.
The LGA has developed the hub with communications company comms2point0, which has reviously worked with local authorities on projects such as running a communications office and a social media audit.
It said the hub will be continuously updated to reflect current work.
Getting to grips
Councillor David Sparks, chair of the LGA, said: "Many councils have already got to grips with social media and are using it to communicate with their residents about things like bin collections, weather warnings and road closures.
"Digital Councils will give council communications teams help and advice as they discuss how to develop their social media presence. Councillors and councils are working at different speeds and this resource will provide a hub so we can work with everyone and learn from each other.
"There are thousands of dedicated council staff across the country, who play a vital role in our communities. This guidance is designed to complement and enhance their tireless work, which will ultimately benefit the lives of our residents."
