Corporate governance

What is Corporate Governance?

Corporate governance is the system by which local authorities direct and control their functions and relate to their communities.

We have a key role to play in governing and leading Oxford's communities. Our effectiveness relies on public confidence in elected councillors and officers. Good corporate governance underpins credibility and confidence in our services. To deliver effective corporate governance we must show openness, integrity and accountability.

Does the Council have a Code of Corporate Governance?

We are committed to attaining the very highest standards of corporate governance. To demonstrate this commitment and in accordance with best practice guidance, we have drawn up our own Code of Corporate Governance:

Oxford City Council Code of Corporate Governance (69kB PDF)

Best practice guidance has identified five dimensions that should be covered in our local Code. These are:

• community focus
• service delivery arrangements
• structures and processes
• risk management and internal control
• standards of conduct

Our local code brings together under these headings the strands of corporate governance that are in place throughout the Council. The Code of Corporate Governance was approved by the Council's Executive Board on 17 March 2003.

Page last reviewed 7 Nov 2008

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