Scrutiny

Scrutiny is a key part of how we ensure transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement in public services. It allows councillors to examine decisions, challenge service changes, and review how services are delivered.

Scrutiny process

Councillors investigate topics that affect the local area, focusing on health and crime and disorder - known as statutory scrutiny responsibilities.

Scrutiny is carried out by the Audit and Governance Committee, which:

• reviews service changes and performance
• challenges decisions made by the council and its partners
• publishes findings and recommendations

View Audit and Governance Committee papers and minutes

Health scrutiny

We have a statutory responsibility to scrutinise health services, including:

• health issues that concern the local population 
• proposed substantial changes to local service provision  
• assessing the impact on the local community and service users 
• the development of strategies that will improve people’s health  
• the accessibility of services  

Hartlepool is also part of the Tees Valley Joint Health Scrutiny Committee, which reviews health matters across:

• Darlington
• Hartlepool
• Middlesbrough
• Redcar and Cleveland
• Stockton-on-Tees

Find out more about the Tees Valley Joint Health Scrutiny Committee

Call-in powers - Secretary of State for Health and Social Care

Since 31 January 2024, members of the public or any group have been able to request that  the Secretary of State "calls-in" proposed changes to NHS services. Scrutiny committees can also submit requests.

Submit a call-in request

Crime and disorder scrutiny

The Audit and Governance Committee can review decisions made by the Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership (CDRP) and other bodies, including:

• the council
• the police
• the fire authority
• health bodies

They can make reports or recommendations to Council or the appropriate policy committee with regard to the discharge of those functions.  Key areas for review or scrutiny are -  

• policy development - including in-depth reviews 
• contribution to the development of strategies 
• holding to account at formal hearings 
• performance management 

Get involved

If you would like to get involved, please contact our Democratic services team