What Is the Constitution?
The Constitution is a rulebook for how Sandwell Council operates. It explains:
- Who makes decisions and who is responsible for them.
- How decisions are made and services are delivered.
- How the Council stays open and transparent.
- What standards Councillors and staff must follow.
It ensures the Council follows the law and acts in the best interests of the people who live, work, and study in Sandwell.
View Basic Guide to Constitution
Part 1 – Introduction
This section sets the scene by explaining what the Council’s Constitution is all about. Think of it as a guidebook that lays out how the Council works, what rules it follows, and who does what. It helps everyone—from Councillors and staff to members of the public—understand how decisions are made and services are delivered.
You’ll find explanations of key terms used throughout the document, so if you’re not familiar with council jargon, this part will help you get up to speed. It also gives a snapshot of how the Council is structured, including the different roles people play and how they work together to serve the community.
Part 2 – Decision Making and Decision Makers
This section breaks down how decisions are made within the Council and who has the authority to make them. It’s designed to show that decision-making isn’t just about one person—it’s a shared responsibility across several groups:
- The Executive – This includes the Leader of the Council and their Cabinet. They’re responsible for making big-picture decisions and setting the direction for the Council.
- The Full Council – All elected Councillors come together to make decisions on major issues, like budgets and policies.
- Committees – These are smaller groups of Councillors who focus on specific areas, such as planning or licensing.
- Council Officers – These are the professional staff who carry out the day-to-day work and can make certain decisions under delegated powers.
The section also explains how powers can be passed down (known as delegation) and outlines the rules for how meetings are held and decisions are recorded. It’s all about making sure decisions are made fairly, legally, and in a way that people can understand and trust.
Part 3 – Scrutiny and Open Government
This part focuses on transparency and accountability. It explains how the Council keeps itself in check through a system called Overview and Scrutiny. These boards or panels review decisions made by the Executive and help shape future policies by asking questions, gathering evidence, and making recommendations.
The aim is to make sure decisions are not only effective but also made in a way that’s open to public view. This section reinforces the Council’s commitment to being transparent, honest, and responsive to the needs of local people. It’s about making sure the Council is working for everyone—and that its actions can be challenged and improved when needed.
Part 4 – Governance and Ethics
This section lays out the legal and ethical framework that guides how the Council operates. It covers the rules for managing public money responsibly, making sure services are delivered efficiently, and ensuring that Councillors and Officers behave in a way that’s fair, respectful, and in line with public expectations.
It includes codes of conduct, financial regulations, and other important policies that help maintain trust and integrity in everything the Council does. In short, it’s about doing the right thing, the right way.