We follow nationally agreed principles to act in the best interests of people of Elmbridge.
Governance is about doing things in the right way, for the right people and at the right time. This includes being inclusive, open, transparent, honest and accountable in everything we do. In this way, we should achieve what we plan to do, while always acting in the public interest.
Our Local Code of Corporate Governance describes the arrangements that we have in place to ensure effective governance. Our Annual Governance Statement sets out our review of the arrangements in place for the previous year.
Principles of good governance
We comply with a recognised governance framework for local government.
The framework comprises 7 key principles:
- Behaving with integrity, demonstrating strong commitment to ethical values, and respecting the rule of law.
- Ensuring openness and comprehensive stakeholder engagement.
- Defining outcomes in terms of sustainable economic, social and environmental benefits.
- Determining the interventions necessary to optimise the achievement of the intended outcomes.
- Developing the entity’s capacity, including the capability of its leadership and the individuals within it.
- Managing risks and performance through robust internal control and strong public financial management.
- Implementing good practices in transparency, reporting, and audit, to deliver effective accountability.
All our members and officers have a responsibility for upholding the principles of good governance.