Overview and Scrutiny for Chairs and Vice-Chairs

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.

Overview and Scrutiny for Chairs and Vice-Chairs (2 hours – 4.30-6.30)

An interactive session for councillors who are Overview and Scrutiny Chairs and Vice-Chairs

• Covering the design and delivery of Overview and Scrutiny activity, from identification of themes through to monitoring of outcomes.
• Officer and stakeholder liaison
• Chairing and Questioning Skills
• Financial considerations
• Communication/media considerations.