Category: Past Events
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
Holding mayors to account: The future of scrutiny in devolved government
Join the Centre for Governance and Scrutiny (CfGS) and the London Assembly on 27 November 2025 at City Hall, London for a one-day conference on the future of mayoral scrutiny. Explore reforms, impact and innovation in devolved government. Free to attend – places limited
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
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
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.
Navigating SEND Scrutiny: Shared Insights for Effective Scrutiny
Join us to hear insights, explore practical approaches, and spotlight innovation in stakeholder engagement and SEND service improvement.
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.