The document introduces changes to the overview and scrutiny model in Swansea Council from May 2010. It explains that overview and scrutiny involves non-cabinet councillors improving services and accountability. The structure includes 5 boards and 2 committees. The changes aim to improve challenge to decision-makers through new methods like letters between chairs and cabinet members and pre/post board meetings.

1. Introducing the New Model of Overview & Scrutiny May 2010

2. From May 2010, Overview and Scrutiny in the City & County of Swansea Council will work in a different way This guide explains why it is changing and how it will work

3. But first, what exactly is Overview & Scrutiny?

5. The Aim is: To provide ‘critical friend’ challenge to the executive (and decision makers) by undertaking a range of overview and scrutiny activities to ensure that improvement is delivered, sustained and embedded.

7. Why is Overview & Scrutiny Changing?

10. How Will Overview & Scrutiny Be Different?

14. How Will it Work?

16. The ‘Critical Friend’ Process Performance Issue Questioning Strategy Consider Responses Chair’s Letter Preparation/ Pre Meeting Questioning / Board Meeting Following Up Reviewing/ Post Meeting

17. The Review Process Policies / Services Scoping Report Findings Report Final Report Scoping Evidence Gathering Following Up Report Writing

18. The Referral Process Cabinet Council O&S Committee Report To Board Consider Response Report From Board Referral Evidence Gathering Following Up Report Writing

21. Ask the right questions Investigate and propose Ways we can improve Overview & Scrutiny Haiku