Code of Corporate Governance

St Helens Borough Council's Code of Corporate Governance is a framework of systems, processes, cultures and values which sets out how the council operates. 

The framework brings together good governance principles and sound management processes. It is based on guidance published in April 2016 by the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA) and the Society of Local Authority Chief Executives and Senior Managers (SOLACE) around 'Delivering Good Governance in Local Government'.

The CIPFA/SOLACE framework sets out seven core principles for good governance:

• Behave with integrity, demonstrating strong commitment to ethical values, and respecting the rule of law
• Ensure openness and comprehensive stakeholder engagement
• Define outcomes in terms of sustainable economic, social, and environmental benefits
• Determine the interventions necessary to optimise the achievement of the intended outcomes
• Develop 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
• Implement good practices in transparency, reporting, and audit to deliver effective accountability

The Code, which you can download below, explains the relevant governance arrangements St Helens Borough Council has in place and where examples and evidence of the operation of these arrangements can be found.