Standards
Our regulatory activities will be open to public scrutiny with clear policies and efficient complaints procedures. We will be accountable for the effectiveness of our enforcement activities. We will review performance regularly and make changes as necessary. Where performance targets for enforcement services exist, they will be clearly stated in service plans.
No service will set performance targets relating to the numbers of enforcement actions taken. Enforcement activity will not be undertaken as a means of generating revenue.
Proportionality
We will ensure that enforcement action is proportionate to the risks involved and severity of alleged offending. We will ensure that sanctions are meaningful and proportionate to the current level of risk.
Targeted
The council will focus resources on higher-risk behaviour and activities, reflecting local need and national priorities. Regulatory effort will be directed effectively using intelligence and relevant risk assessment schemes and may involve liaison with other agencies where appropriate. We will target those who persistently or deliberately break the law.
Consistency
Whilst enforcement approaches in individual cases will depend on the particular situation and background, we will aim to ensure that enforcement is applied consistently and fairly. This means we will adopt a similar approach in similar circumstances to achieve similar outcomes. Where officers depart from this Policy in making decisions, they must provide evidenced reasons for doing so, based upon the individual facts of the case.
Openness
We are committed to the open provision of information and advice in a format that is accessible and easily understood. All enforcement decisions will be properly reasoned, recorded, and based upon material evidence.
Where a complaint is received that may lead to enforcement action, the Council will respect a complainant's request for anonymity in line with the law. It is recognised that occasionally the Council will need to act on anonymous reports.
Each service will provide information, as appropriate, to communicate the rules, standards and penalties that relate to their area of enforcement. From time to time, a service may choose to undertake more high-profile communication work to raise awareness of the rules and enforcement activity that relate to their specific remit.
Helpfulness
The Council believes that prevention is better than cure and will advise and assist on compliance with the law; council officers will be courteous and efficient. A key element of our activity will be to allow and encourage economic progress and the Council will only intervene when there is a clear case for enforcement. We work closely with businesses, individuals and organisations to help them comply with relevant legislation.
In cases where the law provides a right of appeal against enforcement action, the Council will provide details of appeal mechanisms in writing.
Trained and competent officers
All officers authorised to undertake enforcement duties will be suitably trained and qualified to ensure they are fully competent to undertake their role.
Liaison with other agencies
The Council will endeavour to coordinate its activities with those of other agencies to achieve effective outcomes and minimise inconvenience for those being visited or subjected to enforcement. Effective coordination will avoid inconsistencies and ensure that the most appropriate action is taken to resolve any breach.