Topic: Better scrutiny

This category covers material that provides advice, and shares our thinking, about what makes overview and scrutiny work well. It should be read alongside our Good Scrutiny Digest.

Council Impact: Strong Scrutiny Linked to Confidence and Effective Relationships

Headlines from the 2022-23 results of our annual of overview and survey in local government.


Health Scrutiny Fireside Chat

Arrangements for Health Scrutiny explored by Camilla de Bernhardt Lane and Ed Hammond, with practical tips on how to administer them.


Engaging with the outcome of peer review to inform improvement

Information about external review and peer-led assurance techniques, associated with the “Corporate Peer Challenge.”


Using insights from the Ombudsman to inform scrutiny

An outline of how complaints can improve the corporate governance process, with focus on Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman.


The “Scrutiny Protocol” – new arrangements for scrutiny in combined authorities

Government guidance for combined authorities on overview and scrutiny arrangements, alongside a CfGS perspective and guide.


Fitting scrutiny into the local assurance framework

Exploration of how scrutiny is used effectively in quality assurance and who is responsible for this.


Councillors’ use of information

CfGS explainer on our guidance for councillors on their rights to access information.


Scrutiny of children’s services

Core elements in the Scrutiny of children’s services.


South Tyneside Council

A comprehensive scrutiny report of poverty-related issues in South Tyneside, identifying challenges, exploring solutions, and making recommendations to improve the well-being of residents.


Public participation par excellence

Ideas to increase the reach of scrutiny activities and increase public engagement.