How Scrutiny Works

Overview and Scrutiny was introduced in Local Government in 2000 to drive improvements in services through a distinct separation between decision makers and those holding them to account. Fundamental to good scrutiny is appropriate and impartial officer advice and support, evidence-based decision making, the availability of credible and independent subject matter expertise, community input and informed and engaged elected members, both at cabinet and scrutineer levels.

Good scrutiny can deliver many benefits including:

• Transparency in decision making.
• Better value for money.
• Opportunities for community engagement.
• Improvement in the quality of services delivered, leading to an increase in service user satisfaction.

The following workshops have been designed to cover the essentials of Overview and Scrutiny for members, delivered by an experienced councillor from the member perspective. The Financial Scrutiny session is delivered by the Centre for Governance and Scrutiny.

How Scrutiny Works (2 hours – 4.30-6.40)

An interactive session suitable for all backbench councillors who service on Overview and Scrutiny Committees.

• Background to Overview and Scrutiny.
• Selecting areas/issues to scrutinise.
• Developing Questions, identifying information sources.
• Making the best use of resources for Overview and Scrutiny – including financial considerations.
• Monitoring and evaluating Overview and Scrutiny outcomes.