Get involved in scrutiny

Scrutiny Committees must make arrangements to allow people who live or work in the local authority area to make representations on any matter being discussed.

Although we must take into account any views raised at scrutiny committees, we must also ensure that views are reasonable and appropriate. Our protocol explains the criteria that will be used when considering a request from the public.

There are a number of ways that you can be involved in the work of scrutiny. You can

• make your views known on specific agenda items published in the forward work programme. Your comments will be made available to committee members. 
• ask scrutiny committees to look into issues of concern that are not included in its forward work programme. 
• attend meetings of the scrutiny committee to observe reports under discussion, unless the scrutiny committee, acting on advice, decides that the matter is exempt. 

Speaking and Providing Evidence at Scrutiny Committee

You can either provide written evidence or speak at the scrutiny committee meeting. All speakers are limited to 5 minutes unless advised otherwise by the Chair. If there are a number of representations to speak on an issue the number of speakers will be determined by the Chair, usually up to a maximum of three. This does not include requests from Caerphilly County Borough Councillors, which are determined by the councils' constitution. We ask that all participants at scrutiny committee meetings treat each other with respect and curtesy.

If you wish to make a written submission this can be sent to scrutiny@caerphilly.gov.uk or posted to Democratic Services, Caerphilly County Borough Council, Penallta House, Tredomen Business Park, Ystrad Mynach, CF82 7PG. This will be circulated to the scrutiny committee on your behalf. Please note that the laws of libel and slander are very strict. If you say or write something defamatory in public about a person that is untrue, you may be at risk of legal action. Similarly, you should ensure your comments are not discriminatory. Written statements containing inappropriate, discriminatory or defamatory comments will not be forwarded to the members of the committee.

You may also find your practical guide to scrutiny useful.