Topic: Subject-specific scrutiny best practice

Over the years CfGS has been the source of a significant amount of practical guidance for councils in how their scrutiny functions can understand, address and make recommendations on specific policy issues. Ranging from the cost of living crisis to cybersecurity, this best practice guidance (and a number of associated case studies) provides advice on a broad range of common topics.

Financial scrutiny – a guide for members

A guide to financial scrutiny, 2023.


Scrutiny of children’s services

Core elements in the Scrutiny of children’s services.


DHSC confirms new health scrutiny arrangements to start in January

Discussion piece on DHSC new health scrutiny arrangements.


Inspecting local authority children’s services: Ofsted and the role of children’s services scrutiny

This paper supports the work of non-Executive Councillors involved in the business of local authority Children’s Scrutiny.


South-West Regional Scrutiny Network – Homelessness Task and Finish Group

Cross-party Homelessness Task and Finish Working Group, launched to examine the impact of any increase in homelessness in Exeter as a result of benefit cuts and increases in the cost of living.


Health Scrutiny – A Short Guide

An introductory guide and overview of Health and Adult Services Scrutiny.


Discussion Paper for Roundtable- ‘Changes to Inspecting Local Authority Children’s Services (ILACS) & how Scrutiny can meaningfully add value’

This is a roundtable event to explore the changes to Inspecting local authority children’s services (ILACS) and how Scrutiny can meaningfully add value to the process: Inspecting local authority children’s services – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) Please click the below link to view the discussion paper for the event. If you have any questions, please do contact […]


Devon County Council – Children’s Scrutiny and Ofsted

Sharpening the scrutiny function in a Children’s Scrutiny Action Plan, in respond to Ofsted.


Scrutiny of Children’s Services – A Short Guide

A guide to scrutiny of Children’s Services within local authorities.


10 Questions on Cyber Security

An LGA guide is for councillors sitting on scrutiny committees, and the officers who support them.