Corporate peer review 2026
The Local Government Association’s independent review of Devon County Council, its leadership, services, finances and how well the council is improving.
Quote from Donna Manson
I’m extremely pleased with the report from the Corporate Peer Review. It demonstrates the dedication and commitment our staff continuously display every day as they strive to provide the best services for Devon
It reflects the progress we are making to build a council that works better for residents. One that listens, learns and works alongside communities to deliver the services people need.
Donna Manson, Chief Executive
Our position statement
We are an ambitious council, committed to delivering high quality and responsive services that meet the needs of our communities.
Over recent years we have strengthened our leadership, enhanced our financial resilience and sharpened our focus on outcomes, while working collaboratively with partners across the public, voluntary and community sectors. Through deeper engagement with residents and partners, we are ambitious to build a positive future for Devon where everyone thrives.
We recognise clear priority areas where focused improvement is essential to achieving our ambition.
LGA report
An independent peer review has found that Devon County Council has made strong progress in improving its culture, leadership and services. It highlights a more positive working environment, stronger partnerships and growing confidence in the council’s ability to keep improving outcomes for residents.
Key findings
Stronger leadership and culture
A new Chief Executive and leadership team have helped reset the organisation, with positive relationships between councillors and officers and a strong sense that staff are trusted, motivated and working together as one council.Clear vision and priorities
The council now has a clear Strategic Plan focused on improving outcomes, especially for children and young people, with a strong commitment to supporting care leavers and vulnerable residents.
Clear vision and priorities
Governance and financial management have improved, with stronger arrangements, more robust financial planning and a clearer focus on risk and resilience.Improved governance and financial management
Investment in staff, apprenticeships and leadership, along with the People First strategy, is helping to build a more stable, capable workforce and support positive culture change across the council.
Quote from Julian Brazil
This is a really encouraging report, and it matters because it reflects real progress for the people of Devon.
We’ve been working hard to get the council moving in the right direction, improving services, working more closely with partners and making better use of the resources we have.
There’s still a long way to go, and we’re not pretending otherwise, but this report shows we’ve turned a corner and are starting to see the benefits of those changes.
Councillor Julian Brazil, Leader