Author: Pandora Ellis
The role of constitutions in democratic change
A council’s constitution should be a practical, trusted guide for members and officers – supporting sound governance and helping everyone to understand how to things get done. With local elections approaching in May, now is the time for councils to check that their constitution still reflects current practice, is easy to navigate, and supports members in their roles
Scrutiny of medium-term council finance
Explore how scrutiny can make sense of the Medium-Term Financial Plan, in ways that question assumptions, whilst strengthening transparency at the same time
Audit and scrutiny workshops
Free, in-person workshops for audit and scrutiny chairs to explore roles, connections, and collaboration opportunities:
London (18th November); Leeds (27th November); Southampton (9th December) and Birmingham (16th December)
Shades of grey: audit and scrutiny – understanding the finance and risk governance divide
Discover how audit and scrutiny committees can collaborate more effectively to strengthen finance and risk governance
Neighbourhood Governance: what the Devolution Bill means for councils
Explore what mandatory neighbourhood governance means for your council and discover how to turn this legislative requirement into an opportunity for more democratic, responsive local government.
Neighbourhood Governance
In her latest blog, Mel Stevens unpacks how a new duty in the Devolution Bill could shake up local democracy and put real power in the hands of communities.
Embedding Effective Scrutiny in Combined Authorities
Explore how combined authorities can build strong, impactful scrutiny arrangements that reflect the Government’s Scrutiny Protocol. Join fellow practitioners to hear about strategies for making scrutiny work in a complex governance landscape.
Joined up Scrutiny for Economic Development
As English devolution accelerates, so does the need for effective, joined-up scrutiny of long-term priorities like economic growth and regeneration. Share experiences, hear from peers, and help shape a more connected approach to scrutiny in devolved governance.
Managing Scrutiny of Local Government Reorganisation
Join us at this at this timely event where we explore the current state of local government reform (LGR) and the evolving role of scrutiny. In the session, we will check in on recent developments, share insights from the front lines, and look ahead to what’s coming next.
Governance without a majority: preparing for No Overall Control
Explore how councils can plan for governance without a clear majority. Hear from experts and share thinking with your peers, on how to manage No Overall Control, make decisions, and stay effective in uncertain times.