Overview and Scrutiny
Introduction
"Overview and Scrutiny is potentially the most exciting and powerful element of the entire local government modernisation process. It places Members at the heart of the way in which Councils respond to the demands of modernisation.
In addition, Overview and Scrutiny is the mechanism by which Councils can achieve community leadership, good governance and by which Councillors can become powerful and influential politicians."
Office of the Deputy Prime Minister - 2002
What is Overview and Scrutiny?
Government is all about decision-making, and Overview and Scrutiny is about understanding why these decisions are made, and ensuring they are the best ones possible.
Overview and Scrutiny provides the opportunity for Councillors and members of the public to improve the quality and delivery of services to local communities.
Overview and Scrutiny can work in a number of ways.
- It has the power to 'call-in' decisions made by Cabinet Members, asking them to give a full explanation of the decisions or to re-consider the matter. Ultimately, if the issue is not resolved satisfactorily, the matter can be referred to full Council.
- It can ask for information on matters of concern or interest referred to it.
- It can hold detailed investigations or reviews and make recommendations to the Cabinet or Full Council.
Date last reviewed: 20th October 2011
Pages in Overview and Scrutiny
- 1. You are here Introduction
- 2. The Overview and Scrutiny Committee
- 3. Types of Overview and Scrutiny Meetings
- 4. How Overview and Scrutiny fits into the Political Management of the Council
- 5. Forthcoming Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting dates and times
- 6. How can I get involved in Overview and Scrutiny?
- 7. Overview and Scrutiny Protocols and Guidance Information
- 8. Overview and Scrutiny Toolkit
- 9. Current Overview and Scrutiny Reviews
- 10. Previous Overview and Scrutiny Reviews
- 11. Equality Impact Assessments (EIAs)
- 12. Overview and Scrutiny Improvement Plan
- 13. Overview and Scrutiny Annual Reports
- 14. Overview and Scrutiny Work Programme
- 15. Overview and Scrutiny E-Bulletin Newsletters
- 16. Staff Training
- 17. What Overview and Scrutiny is not
- 18. Links to Useful Sites
- 19. Links to Local Authorities in Northamptonshire
- 20. Glossary of Terms
Contact the Council
- Email: enquiries@northampton.gov.uk
- Telephone: 0300 330 7000
- Use our feedback form or find key contact details