Organisational Improvement Plan

External Communications Strategy progressed with LGA support, including draft shared with the Independent Advisory Board.

12-month forward plan has been developed in collaboration with Cabinet.

12-month forward plan developed for Overview & Scrutiny Committee and Audit & Governance Committee.

Overview & Scrutiny Improvement Plan and Work Programme developed and approved by the Committee on 19 November 2025.

Strengthened strategic alignment through embedded CEO/CEX governance arrangements

TVCA Submitted 7 of the 8 entities’ accounts by the statutory backstop date 27th February 2026.

Interim resource has been secured to ensure that the team is fit for purpose in the short-term. This interim structure has been designed to undertake the full financial review and implement the improvements needed.

The Local Government Association (LGA) have been engaged to provide additional support on key process improvement.

New budget setting process implemented for 2025/26.

Recruitment for permanent Finance & Resources Director (S73) officer is in progress and due to conclude in April 2026.

A programme of work is in place to support the development and implementation of a revised TVCA Constitution.

Tees Valley Specific Design Principles have been developed for the Single Assurance Framework. Engaged with the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (MHCLG) to align design principles. Cabinet has endorsed the approach and design principles for the development of a SAF on 12 December 2025. Audit and Governance committee considered design principles on 20 February 2026.

Initial review of Governance processes and procedures undertaken.

At its meeting on 20 February 2026 Audit & Governance Committee reviewed and made no amendments and supported the recommendation to Cabinet to approve the Public Code of Conduct.

Review of 23/24 and 24/25 Annual Governance Statements (AGS) taken place for TVCA and DCs.

Updated draft templates in place and are in line with CIFPA and SOLACE guidance.

Process is established which accords with the Best Value Notice guidance.

Workforce development roadmap designed and agreed with TVCA and the Local Government Association (LGA).

Recruitment for permanent Finance & Resources Director (S73) officer is in progress and due to conclude in April 2026.

TVCA values are embedded in job adverts by way of candidates needing to align their profile to the values.

Improved internal engagement through introduction of:

• All-staff briefings – from April 2025 – ongoing
• Staff Forum – from March 2025 – ongoing
• Lunchtime Learn session from March 2025 – ongoing
• Regular video updates from the Chief Executive – April 2025 – ongoing
• Updates from Director of Operations – June 2025
• Reception display board notifications