Audit & Governance Committee

Membership: 9 Quorum: 3 Substitutes: Named substitutes (who have been trained) Frequency: Recommended 3 times per year   Main Purpose

•               To provide independent assurance on the adequacy of the Council’s risk management framework, control environment, and governance arrangements.

•               To oversee the Constitution and promote high standards of conduct within the Council.

•               To review the overall budget process, including governance, controls, and compliance with statutory requirements, but not the details of budget proposals or allocations.   Key Responsibilities

•               Maintain an overview of the Council’s financial reporting processes, including assurance as to the adequacy and effectiveness of arrangements for producing the Statement of Accounts and Annual Governance Statement, as well as the quality of outputs. The Committee does not have responsibility for budget setting or detailed financial management.

•               Advise on the adequacy and effectiveness of corporate governance and internal controls.

•               Make recommendations regarding the appointment of the External Auditor and monitor the external audit service's performance and findings.

•               Monitor the adequacy and effectiveness of the Internal Audit service; approve the annual Internal Audit Plan.

•               Monitor Council policies and strategies on an annual basis, including whistleblowing, anti-fraud, insurance, risk management, emergency planning, business continuity, and RIPA.

•               Oversight of the Council’s Constitution, with responsibility for review delegated to the Constitution Working Group (CWG). The CWG will report its work programme to the Audit & Governance Committee for consideration and any recommendations for amendment to the Full Council as required.

•               Develop and agree on the annual programme of member training and briefings.

•               Review outside body appointments and receive reports from appointed representatives.

•               Advise the Scrutiny Committee on matters requiring scrutiny.