In addition to the year-round ward work, there are duties that takes place in the Civic Centre and both Councillor Oliver and Dixon have been allocated positions on important committees by their party. Councillor Oliver sits on Children's Services and Councillor Dixon is on Regeneration and Community. These are ideal committees for both councillors, as Robert can use his expertise as a teacher as well as his interest in education. The same applies for Michael as a Chartered Surveyor by profession. 
 
Both Robert and Michael sit on the South Sunderland Area Committee, along with Councillors from the nearby wards of Silksworth and Doxford. Not long ago this committee was completely dominated by Labour Councillors, but this is no longer true (although to be fair the business is conducted whereby everyone can have a say). There are other committees of which we are members.
 
We both take these committees very seriously and ask the appropriate questions of Officers when they make their reports. By doing this we attempt to ensure that the proper scrutiny process takes place to the best of our ability. If used properly they can be the source of much information and knowledge.