North West Scrutiny Support Officers' Network Meeting

10th July 2009

Date: Friday, 10th July 2009
Time: 10.00am
Venue: Lancaster Suite, Town Hall, Bolton

Agenda

1. Notes of the Last Meeting

To receive for information, the notes of the last meeting of the Network held on 27th February 2009.

2. Health Scrutiny

Tim Gilling and/or Avril Davies from the CfPS will tell you first hand about the new arrangements for the Expert Advisory Team, and the Networking events in October and November which they want to complement new councillor induction by tracking and sharing what’s happening in health scrutiny.

3. Reflections On The Cfps Annual Conference

To enable those who attended the CfPS Annual Conference on 9th June 2009, in Nottingham to raise any issues arising from the conference that might be of interest or concern to colleagues who were unable to attend.

4. Importance Of Scrutiny Support In A Time Of Financial Restraint

It is clear that which ever party wins the next general election and forms the next government, there will be severe financial pressures on local authorities. The support for overview and scrutiny could be especially vulnerable to budget “efficiencies”.

It could be useful to share current experiences and discuss ways of dedicated retaining support for scrutiny committees and members.

5. Pay And Grading Review Update

To discuss the latest out comes for scrutiny support from the pay and grading review.

6. Secretariat For NWSSON

The importance of this Network and its involvement with the CfPS as a key tool for effective consultation and communication is likely to increase. Therefore, there is a need for an organised secretariat that will organise agendas, take minutes at meetings and generally manage the Network. It is suggested that Gina Murphy, who has been undertaking role this at Tameside on behalf of the network, be formally appointed secretary to the Network. Gina’s role will continue to be funded and supported by Tameside MBC.

7. NWSSON Website

In order to facilitate the further development of the Network, it is suggested that a dedicated website be created. This will allow for the sharing of more information, including minutes, agendas, examples of best practice, templates, newsletters, etc.

The Network’s website will not be subject to the same accessibility standards that government websites are required to meet, which will allow more freedom in the type of downloads that we can share.

If the Network is in agreement to proceed with this venture, Tameside are willing to manage and host the site but would be looking for a financial contribution from Members to facilitate the initial set up.

8. Any Other Business

9. Arrangements For The Next Meeting

To agree the date and venue for the next meeting of the Network.