CfGS practice guides, case studies, and guidance from our partners to help you navigate any changes – expected or otherwise
With elections in England this week, we know councils have been working hard to prepare – both for the count, and for what comes next.
But even in quieter years than 2026, elections can surprise. There are signs that this could be one of the most significant ‘change’ moments in recent memory. So, if you discover an unexpected wave of new members, a change in administration, or no overall control, there will be a lot to consider. With that in mind, we’re sharing guidance and support options ahead of Thursday – to help you navigate whatever comes next.
Getting scrutiny right
During periods of increasing political challenge, scrutiny can come under greater pressure. But the challenge that effective scrutiny can bring will only become more important when a council experiences periods of change.
Scrutiny in no overall control – a practice guide
While scrutiny can become beset with adversarial behaviour at a time of greater competition, it doesn’t have to. Done well, it can foster stronger cross-party working, shared ownership of recommendations, and a more constructive scrutiny culture. The key is understanding what to expect, and having effective strategies in place. Published in March 2026, this guide helps you navigate key moments, the challenges, and how to prepare.
Case study: Improving scrutiny during a time of pressure and change
In the context of financial pressures, political transition, and organisational change, Woking Borough Council has worked to improve its scrutiny function. Working with CfGS and the LGA, the council adopted a new committee structure, refocused its work programming and member development to ensure scrutiny was better aligned with the council’s priorities and adding value at the right stages of decision-making.
Want more help with scrutiny? If you’re facing more complex challenges, we can help.
Developing governance that works
Preparing for political change – lessons from LGIU councils
Our friends at LGIU draw on their own work with councils, emphasising a three-pronged approach: Rigour, relationships and resilience.
“The first thing that tends to break under political change is not strategy or policy. It is a process, and more specifically, the informal practices, undocumented assumptions, and relationship-based shortcuts that grow in any council that has benefited from political stability.”
The 12 components of effective coalitions
Building on the LGA’s work with councils in coalition, this guide provides practical advice for councillors and officers in how coalitions between political groups can be built and sustained.
Relationships for effective governance and scrutiny – a practice guide
Periods of change place strain on relationships across the council. Yet they are even more critical in uncertainty. This guide focuses on scrutiny, but its lessons apply more broadly across governance. It provides lots of useful information about the key roles and relationships scrutiny needs to maintain and the values it must hold dear…
Image from the Relationships practice guide
Dealing with the constitution
A sudden shift in leadership, or a loss of majority, can provide new tests for your governance and constitution, particularly if you’re moving from settled political control. But it can offer fresh impetus to look again at ways of working, relationships and decision making.
Dudley Council wasn’t facing a period of political disruption, but Steve Griffiths, Democratic Services Manager, offers reflections that can help anyone thinking about their governance and constitution. He shares how process evolved, what others can learn and how it’s helped to create more awareness in the council for improving governance.
Steve says: “You can have the best constitution in the world, but without the right culture and understanding throughout the organisation, it won’t be effective.”
Get in touch to discuss your governance needs.
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Giving councillors the very best starts – and support
Even if your political balance doesn’t change, you may face a wave of new councillors. Councils will need to establish firm foundations for members quickly, but be confident councillors can continue to develop in their roles.
Starting quickly when you are facing an influx of new members
Our quick-start package combines three tried and tested sessions to give your new scrutiny committee members the foundations they need:
- scrutiny essentials
- questioning skills
- work programming
Available in ‘off the shelf, and tailored options, it can be delivered both online and in person.
Building the right skills for chairs
Chairing meetings is a skill in itself, but at a time when political control is more contested, it takes on an even greater level of importance. We provide chairing skills training, which can be tailored to scrutiny, or delivered for general chairing.
Contact us to set up a call with our Training Manager now.
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We’re always expanding our knowledge base – and will soon be on embarking on a new series of practice guides, learning events and case studies.
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