Council bosses have today called for people across Telford & Wrekin to put forward major services or policies they want to go under the microscope.

Telford & Wrekin Council said however well the council performed there was always room for improvement. And scrutiny councillors want to find out from people in the borough where they think the council could improve further.

They said if there was a policy or a council service or decision that someone thought should be improved or reviewed, then this was their opportunity to suggest it.

The plea comes as scrutiny councillors are about to draw up their programme of work for the next year.

Suggestions

After public requests, Telford & Wrekin scrutiny councillors have already looked at and affected a number of key issues including alcohol treatment and misuse, foster care, bus services and the on-going NHS review of health care services in the borough and Shropshire.

Residents have until July 9 to make their suggestions. People can request a suggestion form by e-mailing scrutiny@telford.gov.uk, calling the Scrutiny team on (01952) 383118 or by filling out an online scrutiny suggestion form.

The scrutiny process acts as a check and balance on the council’s cabinet system and scrutiny councillors can investigate areas of policy or service they feel should be improved, carry out service reviews or look into areas of specific public concern.

They can also look into other public services, for example water companies. But will not however look into individual complaints.

The scrutiny process involves councillors from all political parties who can ask witnesses to attend meetings to inform their views and can also carry out their own consultations to see how groups affected by certain policies may feel.

Once a review is complete, they can make recommendations to the cabinet.

Many such reviews have already resulted in changes.

By Lisa Rowley