About us

Our mission is to support better decision-making for the public good

Founded in 2003 to help councils implement transformative governance following the Local Government Act 2000, CfGS has since grown into a national charity committed to improving governance across all levels of government in England, Wales, and beyond.

In a world where social, economic, and political landscapes are shifting rapidly, the need for strong, transparent, and accountable governance has never been greater. At CfGS, we are passionate about fostering a culture of openness and integrity for decision-making in public services.

We believe that the best decisions are made when they are challenged constructively, grounded in evidence, and inclusive of voices that matter—elected representatives, those directly impacted, and key stakeholders alike. Our purpose is to be the driving force behind this kind of governance, championing the behaviours and values that lead to more just, equitable, and effective outcomes.

Our work is more than just designing structures; it’s about inspiring change and shaping a future where every decision is made with accountability and the greater good in mind. We collaborate with like-minded national bodies, think tanks, and consultancies, all united by a shared vision: to ensure that better scrutiny leads to better governance, and ultimately, a better society for all.

Our strategic aims

CfGS will achieve its purpose by:

  • Working with policy and decision-makers nationally and locally to raise governance standards, provide guidance and practical support to aid decision-making and improve outcomes.
  • Supporting organisations and individuals to create a culture which supports good governance, raises governance standards, responds to challenges and risks and provides innovative solutions.
  • Innovating in new areas to develop practical support and guidance which helps improve governance and scrutiny policy and practice.
  • Creating an environment in which our CfGS team (Trustees, staff and associates) can do their best work and establish effective partnerships to help achieve our purpose.
  • Continuing to grow CfGS’s reach, offer and profile in order to achieve our purpose, diversify funding and remain sustainable.

Our team

CfGS has a core team, complemented by expert associates who work on our behalf across the UK. CfGS’s trustees oversee governance, provide strategic advice and ensure compliance with our charity and company obligations.

Our funding

CfGS funds its work through various income streams, including:

  • A grant from HM Government. In partnership with the Local Government Association, we provide improvement services focused on governance and scrutiny to the local government sector in England. This involves supporting improvement in councils’ overview and scrutiny functions, and in systems for decision-making and oversight.
  • Consultancy, providing bespoke support to review and improve governance and scrutiny functions for local authorities, government departments, regulators, housing associations, membership organisations, and various public and private sector entities.
  • Grants and funding to conduct research and produce practical guides and publications.
  • Training Courses, mainly focused on training for councillors in English local authorities. Our training develops skills and capabilities for leadership in scrutiny and oversight.
  • Hosting national conferences to bring together experts from local and national government, as well as governance and scrutiny practitioners, to share best practices and address upcoming challenges.