The Audit and Risk Committee of Lambeth Council is scheduled to convene on Monday 22 June 2026 to review a range of financial and operational reports. Key discussions are expected to focus on the council's financial position, audit progress, and risk management strategies.

Update on External Auditor Recommendations

A significant item on the agenda is an update regarding the council's action plan in response to recommendations made by the external auditor, as outlined in paragraph 2 of Schedule 7 of the Local Audit and Accountability Act 2014. This report, authorised by Zena Cooke, Corporate Director of Resources, will provide information on the council's progress in addressing these recommendations.

Statement of Accounts and Audit Matters

The committee is scheduled to receive an update on the Statement of Accounts for 2025/26, including proposed accounting policies for the same period, and an update on the closedown and accounts improvement plan. This report, also authorised by Zena Cooke, will be of particular interest to those following the council's financial reporting.

Furthermore, an External Audit Update is listed, with associated documentation spanning pages 23-58 of the public reports pack. This suggests a comprehensive review of the external audit process and findings. The committee will also consider the Annual Governance Statement, a crucial document that reflects on the council's governance arrangements.

Internal Audit and Counter Fraud Progress

Progress reports on both Internal Audit and Counter Fraud activities are scheduled for discussion. The Internal Audit Progress Report for 2025-26 and 2026-27, authorised by Zena Cooke and with contact details for Paul Rock, Assistant Director Internal Audit and Counter Fraud, will provide insight into the internal audit function's work and findings. Similarly, the Counter Fraud Progress Report for 2026-27, also authorised by Zena Cooke, with contact details for Michael O'Reilly, Head of Counter Fraud, will detail efforts to combat fraud within the council.

Risk Management and Directorate Assurance

The committee will review the Key Risk Summary for Quarter 4 of 2025/26, authorised by Zena Cooke, with enquiries directed to Paul Rock and James Rimmington. This report will provide an overview of the council's most significant risks. Additionally, a report titled Assurance on key Council risks held by Integrated Health and Adult Social Care Directorate, authorised by Andrew Eyres, Corporate Director Integrated Health and Adult Social Care, and with contact details for Maria Burton, Assistant Director Transformation, Adult Social Care, will offer assurance on risks managed by this key directorate.

Treasury Management and Committee Reports

A Treasury Management Performance Report up to 31 March 2026, authorised by Zena Cooke, will be presented, with contact details for Rob Browning, Acting Assistant Director of Finance. Finally, the Committee Annual Report to Full Council 2025-26, authorised by Zena Cooke and with contact details for Paul Rock, will be reviewed, summarising the activities of the former Corporate Committee.

The meeting is scheduled to take place at Lambeth Town Hall, Brixton, London, SW2 1RW, commencing at 5:30 pm. Copies of agendas and reports are available on the Lambeth website.