Topic: Roles & Relationships
The section contains material which covers the roles and relationships that need to exist in order to underpin effective governance. It includes commentary on the operation of local behavioural codes of conduct and the standards regime.
City of York Council
Follow York’s journey when their scrutiny function was reviewed, uncovering key issues like ineffective oversight, a lack of strategic focus, and a need for cultural change councillor-officer relationships.
Relational Constitutions: A provocation for rethinking local governance
How we can recast council constitutions as a living document that doesn’t just describe power, but shapes how it is held, shared and made accountable
Post-election learning and support
We have a range of learning and development opportunities – free and paid – for that may be useful if you have recently seen changes in your council following elections
The challenge of reforming standards
Camilla de Bernhardt Lane has been part of conversations with the government to help its work improving the regime. She explains how important getting standards right is, and the trade-off that makes this such a difficult challenge.
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.
How virtual meetings are shaping local democracy
The way councils meet is changing. With the government moving toward legislation that could allow virtual and hybrid meetings, there’s a unique opportunity to modernise local governance—making it more inclusive, accessible, and adaptable to today’s demands.This blog shares our thoughts about how virtual and hybrid council meetings could reshape local governance, offering a practical look at the benefits, challenges, and opportunities ahead.
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.
Birmingham City Council
Following intervention, Birmingham City Council commissioned a Governance Stabilisation Plan to support its immediate and short-term challenges.
The Right to Protest vs Acts of Hate: Reflecting on Southport
Mel Stevens, Chief Executive and Antony Mullen, Research and Impact Manager, discuss the fallout from recent riots.
Cornwall Council
Anita Searby – Democratic Lead and Statutory Scrutiny Officer – shares what happened when Cornwall Council undertook a Scrutiny Impact Review.