The Audit Committee of Lincolnshire County Council is scheduled to convene on Monday, 21 September 2026. The meeting's agenda includes a review of the external auditor's value for money risk assessment for the 2025/26 financial year, an update on internal audit progress, and a discussion on risk management.

External Audit Value for Money Risk Assessment

A key item scheduled for discussion is the External Audit Value for Money Risk Assessment for Lincolnshire County Council for the 2025/26 financial year. This report, prepared by the external auditors, KPMG LLP, will be introduced by Amanda Reid, Strategic Finance Manager. The assessment aims to identify any significant weaknesses in the Council's arrangements for securing value for money and to highlight areas where appropriate arrangements may be lacking. The report will conclude on whether there are significant risks in relation to financial sustainability, governance, and the economy, efficiency, and effectiveness of the Council's services. The external auditors will be present to discuss their findings with the committee.

Internal Audit Progress Report

Claire Tomlin, Head of Audit and Risk, will present the Internal Audit Progress Report, covering work completed up to August 2026. This report details the internal audit activities undertaken in line with the internal audit plan approved in March 2026. It provides an overview of the progress made against the audit plan, summarises the findings of finalised audit reports, and highlights any planning or resourcing issues. The report also includes an analysis of 'live' audit reviews and overdue management actions, offering the committee an insight into the ongoing assurance work and any potential impacts on the Head of Internal Audit's annual opinion.

Risk Management Progress Report

Kevin Lane, Team Leader - Insurance and Risk, will provide an update on risk management activity through the Risk Management Progress Report. This report will inform the committee about the current status of the strategic risk register, including any changes in risk assessments and the effectiveness of the governance and control environments for these risks. The committee will be asked to gain assurance over the adequacy of these arrangements and to make recommendations for any further scrutiny requirements. The report will also detail ongoing risk management activities, including work on refining the Council's risk appetite and the development of risk training programmes.

Strategic Risk - Deep Dive Review

The committee will have the opportunity to select a strategic risk or risk theme for a deep dive review, as outlined in a report by Kevin Lane. This session allows the committee to focus on specific areas of concern and gain further assurance on the mitigation strategies in place. Previous deep dive topics have included Market Supply for Adults, IT Infrastructure, and the LFR Command and Control Centre. The report will propose potential risks for consideration, such as Market Supply Children's, Budget, and Working Age Adults, based on their assurance status, direction of travel, and overall significance.

Audit Committee Work Programme

The committee will also consider its Work Programme, presented by Claire Tomlin. This report outlines the core assurance activities scheduled for the committee's future meetings, ensuring that necessary areas for review are included to support the approval of the Annual Governance Statement. The work programme details upcoming items, contributors, and the assurances sought for each agenda point, providing a forward-looking view of the committee's responsibilities.

The meeting is scheduled to take place in the Council Chamber, County Offices, Newland, Lincoln LN1 1YL, at 10:00 am on Monday, 21 September 2026.