Through carrying out their general and specific duties and responsibilities and their ability to exert wider influence, local authorities should
- work for and with their communities
- exercise leadership within their local communities, where appropriate
- undertake an ‘ambassadorial’ role to promote the well-being of their area, where appropriate
Through maintaining effective arrangements
- for explicit accountability to stakeholders for the authority’s performance and its effectiveness in the delivery of services and the sustainable use of resources
- demonstrate integrity in the authority’s dealings in building effective relationships and partnerships with other public agencies and the private/ voluntary sectors
- demonstrate openness in all their dealings
- demonstrate inclusivity by communicating and engaging with all sections of the community to encourage active participation
- develop and articulate a clear and up to date vision and corporate strategy in response to community needs
The importance of good corporate governance
Requirements of modernisation:
- the need for confidence and trust in elected councillors
- new democratic arrangements
- openness and accountability
- self-regulation
- community partnerships and leading by example
Fulfilling ambitions for:
- continuous improvement
- direction
- productivity and
- enthusiasm and commitment among members and staff
Elements of good corporate governance include
- Clear vision
- Planning and reporting
- Effective risk management
- Clear targets and performance measures
- Mechanisms for community engagement
- Protocols for member and officer relations
- Member and officer roles clearly defined
- Training and support in roles
- Formal codes of conduct
For more information contact: Daniel Hurford