Resource type: The Good Scrutiny Digest
Scrutiny of SEND – a practice guide
This guide brings together shared insights collected at a learning event; from councils, practitioners, and partners on what effective SEND scrutiny looks like in practice. It is designed to support scrutiny members, officers and key partners including health and education, to approach this work with confidence, clarity, and a strong focus on impact.
Asking the right questions in scrutiny – a practice guide
Questioning is central to scrutiny as it helps us challenge assumptions, understand complex systems, hold decision-makers to account, and uncover the stories behind the data. Read how to frame and questions effectively in this practice guide.
Scrutiny and local government reorganisation – a practice guide
Explore how scrutiny functions can navigate and retain their role effectively during Local Government Reorganisation (LGR), including key principles and considerations for maintaining oversight through the transition.
Gathering and evaluating evidence – a practice guide
This guide explores how to understand, gather, and use evidence to have the greatest impact in scrutiny work.
Demonstrating impact – a practice guide
This practice guide explores proven approaches that councils have used to assess and articulate their impact, demonstrating how scrutiny can shape better governance and service delivery.
Running effective reviews – a practice guide
This guide outlines the practical steps for conducting a scrutiny review, a detailed investigation aimed at making evidence-based recommendations for change. It covers the end-to-end process of conducting a scrutiny review, from initial planning to post-review follow-up.
Structures, resources and formal powers – a practice guide
An outline of the powers and structures that underpin overview and scrutiny in England, covering key areas such as committee resourcing, membership, chairing, and statutory powers.
Planning and priority setting – a practice guide
An easy to follow guide for setting your work programme, with downloadable infographics.
Relationships for effective governance and scrutiny – a practice guide
This practice guide offers practical advice for developing positive working relationships within scrutiny committees, with executives, partners, and the public.
Scrutiny of Children’s Services – A Short Guide
A guide to scrutiny of Children’s Services within local authorities.