Effective Governance

An effective governance framework will demonstrate the following attributes:

A clear vision of our purpose and intended outcomes for citizens and service users that is clearly communicated, both within the Council and externally.
Arrangements are in place to review our vision and its implications for our governance arrangements.
Arrangements exist for measuring the quality of services for users, for ensuring they are delivered in accordance with our objectives and for ensuring that they represent the best use of resources.
The roles and responsibilities of the executive, non-executive, scrutiny and officer functions are clearly defined and documented, with clear delegation arrangements and protocols for effective communication.
Codes of conduct defining the standards of behaviour for Members and staff are in place, conform with appropriate ethical standards, and are communicated and embedded across the organisation.
Standing orders, standing financial instructions, a scheme of delegation and supporting procedure notes/manuals, which are reviewed and updated as appropriate, clearly define how decisions are taken and the processes and controls required to manage risks.
The core functions of the Governance and Audit Committee, as identified in CIPFA's Audit Committees – Practical Guidance for Local Authorities (2005), are undertaken by Members.
Arrangements exist to ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations, internal policies and procedures, and that expenditure is lawful. All reports are considered for legal issues before submission to Members.
Arrangements for whistleblowing and for receiving and investigating complaints from the public are in place and are well publicised.
Arrangements exist for identifying the development needs of Members and Senior Officers in relation to their strategic roles, and are supported by appropriate training.
Clear channels of communication have been established with all sections of the community and other stakeholders, ensuring accountability and encouraging open consultation.
Governance arrangements with respect to partnerships and other group working are reflected in the authority's overall governance arrangements.