Governance & Powers

Public bodies may only take decisions and actions that are within their powers and involve a reasonable exercise of powers. It is essential for public bodies to have a clear understanding of their powers and any constraints or requirements associated with them. They also need to have effective governance and decision making processes. Any action taken outside a public body’s powers and any flaw in decision making, will leave the public body vulnerable to challenge over the lawfulness of its actions. It could also lead to difficulties with the delivery of services by the public body and to complaints and reputational damage.

We act for many local authorities and other public bodies, providing a comprehensive service to meet all their requirements. We understand the unique characteristics of public bodies, their duties and powers and the importance of governance and powers to their activities. We apply our specialist expertise in governance and powers to any work we carry out for public bodies, as well as providing advice on queries relating to governance and powers. We can assist public bodies with all aspects of powers and governance including:

• Drafting, reviewing and updating constitutions and associated documents
• Advising on powers and their exercise
• Advising on decisions and decision making
• Drafting and reviewing reports to be considered by decision makers
• Advising on changes in governance
• Advising on and drafting governance documents for collaborative arrangements, such as joint committees
• Advising on statutory interpretation
• Providing training to members and officers of public bodies