Category: Blog

Setting up the Scrutiny Review Library: what we learned

Find out more about some of the key lessons we learned about what works – and what doesn’t – when building a shared resource to support better, more connected scrutiny across the sector


CfGS announces team changes and welcomes new senior appointments

We are welcoming two new staff and saying goodbye to Ed and Camilla



What we’re looking forward to at CfGS in 2026

We’re looking ahead to a year of learning, collaboration and impact in 2026


First reflections on Holding mayors to account: The future of scrutiny in devolved government

Camilla, Ed and Andrew reflect on the CfGS and London Assembly co-hosted conference dedicated to mayoral scrutiny


Making the map meaningful: identity and place governance in England’s new local state

The English Devolution Bill will reshape local governance through larger councils, stronger mayoral authorities and new neighbourhood duties. The challenge now is ensuring these new boundaries become real places – with identity, legitimacy and meaningful democratic connection


From mandatory to meaningful – insights on neighbourhood governance

In October our learning event sought to understand what a new neighbourhood governance duty will mean for councils – Mel Stevens reflects on what we heard


Celebrating the launch of Elevate

This week marks the official launch of Elevate, a groundbreaking new pilot programme designed to build scrutiny leadership skills, knowledge and confidence among officers from across the country


21st Century Councillors event

We’re excited to share news of a free 21st Century Councillor event taking place in Andover on 4 November – giving councillors and officers the chance to discuss how elected members can adapt, lead and thrive in a rapidly changing landscape for local democracy


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.