Issue - meetings

The Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee (OSC) presented an Annual Report highlighting the work of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee during the 2022/23 municipal year.

The Chair opened her presentation with a brief overview about the structure and function of the Committee explaining the purpose of scrutiny and its importance to the operation of the Council by helping to improve services for the benefit of the local community. OSC had a wide remit and was able to look into internal Council services, as well as those of our external partners such as the Police, BDSIP and Be First, holding decision makers to account, including the Cabinet, whilst reviewing policy and in so doing, making recommendations for improvement.

The year had again begun by meeting with Cabinet Members, Directors and officers to learn more about their thoughts around key issues, which also helped to guide the Committee in developing a meaningful work programme. The Chair recognised the support given by Cabinet Members who were committed to the scrutiny process and had always attended OSC meetings wherever possible, listening to the Committee’s feedback and responding to any questions.

OSC covered a wide range of items during 2022/23, of which the Chair highlighted a few of the achievements including suggestions to improve job prospects for post-18 SEND individuals, alongside highlighting the importance of graduate opportunities with the introduction of the Film Studios, UCL PEARL and the City of London wholesale markets. Recommendations to improve BDTP services and the Customer Contact Centre following extremely high demand during the pandemic were made by the Committee.

The Committee also engaged with the Metropolitan Police and shared their concerns regarding issues such as women’s safety as part of the Community Safety Partnership Plan 2023-26.

Additionally, the Committee recognised the importance of strengthening the Council’s relationship with faith groups in the Borough, and so pushed for better cross-group working between faith groups to facilitate positive relationships.  

In conclusion the Chair thanked Masuma Ahmed, Claudia Wakefield and Alex Powell for their support to her and the Committee and also thanked Leanna McPherson, Lois Taylor and Ayesha Malik for their continued support.

The Assembly resolved to note the report.