Topic: Case studies
This section offers a range of practical case studies showcasing how councils and public bodies across the UK have used scrutiny to improve governance, drive better outcomes, and tackle complex challenges.
Each case study provides a snapshot of real initiatives – from health and social care integration to constitution reviews and financial oversight – highlighting lessons learned, innovative approaches, and measurable impact.
Whether you’re looking for inspiration, benchmarking, or evidence of what works, these stories give practical examples of how improved governance and scrutiny can get results.
Dudley Council
Follow Dudley Council’s journey through a full-scale constitutional review to learn more about the challenges and opportunities of modernising governance.
West Lancashire Council
This case study highlights the importance of experimenting, embracing imperfection and adapting to change as part of the journey to effective governance.
Thurrock Council
Thurrock Council’s transformation of its Overview and Scrutiny function showcases how structural fixes, skills training, and cultural change can address deep-seated challenges and build a more effective, collaborative governance model.
London Borough of Barnet
Discover how a newly appointed Governance Officer built scrutiny and governance skills through taking on the challenge of managing Barnet Council’s Youth Homelessness Task and Finish Group.
Bournemouth Christchurch and Poole Council
Read the challenges faced by BCP Council, the initiatives implemented, and the outcomes achieved as the Council sought to enhance its overview and scrutiny functions.
Newham Council
Learn how Newham Council transformed its health and social care scrutiny process to be more inclusive, engaging, and reflective of the community’s diverse voices and experiences.
Birmingham City Council
Following intervention, Birmingham City Council commissioned a Governance Stabilisation Plan to support its immediate and short-term challenges.
Lewisham Council
This highlights resident involvement in housing scrutiny committees, by creating co-optee roles and using surveys and focus groups to improve engagement and more inclusive decision-making.
Cornwall Council
Anita Searby – Democratic Lead and Statutory Scrutiny Officer – shares what happened when Cornwall Council undertook a Scrutiny Impact Review.
London Borough of Barnet
A governance change journey, moving from committee to cabinet system and spotlighting challenges and opportunities along the way.