Key skills and knowledge for effective scrutiny 

The ability to ask good, pertinent questions lies at the heart of successful and effective scrutiny. It is not a skill that any councillor automatically possesses once elected. Good questioning requires preparation, reflection, the ability to listen and skill in thinking on your feet. It also requires a keen understanding of what questions will result in answers that will allow scrutiny to get hold of the evidence it needs to make a difference to local people’s lives.

Perfect for new councillors, this session will explore the fundamentals of good questioning. Training will be provided by one of CfGS’s expert advisers. The seminar will take advantage of video and role play exercises to show what a difference good questioning can make, and the practical ways that councillors can ask questions that get to the heart of whatever subject is under scrutiny.

Generic questioning skills training is often not designed for the unique non-executive work that councillors do, and doesn’t recognise the dynamic between councillors, officers, partners and the public. This seminar, however, is specifically designed for overview and scrutiny practitioners. For councillors, it will help them to develop and hone their skills in committee, and in task groups. For officers, it will help them to understand the supportive role they need to take on to ensure that councillors are able to add the most value when they question witnesses.  

Places cost £195 + VAT per person for Local Authority delegates and £225 + VAT per person for commercial sector delegates.