Adult Safeguarding Scrutiny Guide

Overview and Scrutiny Committees (OSCs) play a central role in strengthening the way in which the views and concerns of local communities are represented.


This guide is written for officers and elected members involved in the overview and scrutiny process. It is also for independent chairs of Safeguarding Adults Boards who may be requested to participate in the work of OSCs.



It considers how local arrangements work to safeguard adults in the local authority area, and how OSCs can contribute to better safeguarding in this complex and sensitive area of public service. It is designed to assist officers and members (and independent chairs) in shaping and developing the best way to exercise their responsibilities locally.



The guide includes a set of key references and advice on further reading and websites that will be helpful when scrutinising safeguarding arrangements.