Suggest a Topic for Scrutiny in 2025/26

Overview

We would like to hear your suggestions on what you think our scrutiny boards should look at in 2025/26. 

Scrutiny is the process where decision makers are held accountable for their decisions.  It's like a system of checks and balances to ensure they are serving the community effectively, and is carried out in a variety of ways:- 

• Examining decisions before they are implemented.
• Reviewing and developing council policies.
• Monitoring the performance of the council and its partners.
• Conducting reviews on issues of local importance.

Scrutiny boards do not make decisions but can make recommendations to decision makers. They also can't look at things like planning applications, licensing issues or things that only affect a small number of people.  

In Sandwell we have five scrutiny boards:-

• Budget and Corporate Scrutiny Management Board

(looking at the Council’s budgets, asset management and customer services)

• Children’s Services and Education

(looking at matters such as education, social care, safeguarding)

• Economy, Skills, Transport and Environment

(looking at matters such as highways management, regeneration, skills and unemployment, and the environment)

• Safer Neighbourhoods and Active Communities

(looking at matters such as community safety, housing and leisure)

• Health and Adult Social Care

(looking at matters such as care and safeguarding of vulnerable adults, public health and NHS services in the borough)

You can make as many suggestions as you like, but please send each suggestion separately. 

Why your views matter

Obtaining your views helps us to know what issues are important to the people of Sandwell and gives you a voice in the decision making process, leading to better public services.

Overall, scrutiny is about making Sandwell a bostin’ place for the people who live and work here.