The Governance and Audit Committee of South Kesteven Council met on Wednesday 19 June 2024. Key topics discussed included the internal audit annual opinion, the draft internal audit plan for 2024-2025, the annual Treasury management report, the whistleblowing policy, the anti-money laundering policy, and the key performance indicators (KPIs) for the corporate plan.

Internal Audit Annual Opinion

The committee reviewed the internal audit annual opinion presented by Mr Wells. The previous internal audit team, RSM, provided an adequate opinion for the year, having completed 13 audits since October 2023. The audits covered areas such as responsive repairs, payroll, purchasing and creditors, follow-up work, and the section 106 agreement. RSM's performance indicators were met, and the committee was reassured by the progress made. The committee formally accepted the report and the annual audit opinion.

Draft Internal Audit Plan 2024-2025

Gurpreet Dule from BDO, the new internal auditors, presented the draft internal audit plan for 2024-2025. The plan includes 200 days of audit work, with 15 flexible days. Key areas of focus will be council tax, NNDR, main financial systems, business continuity planning, disaster recovery, data protection, staffing capacity, and homelessness. The committee approved the plan and the internal audit charter.

Annual Treasury Management Report

The committee reviewed the annual Treasury management report for 2023-2024. The report highlighted a significant increase in investment income, achieving £1.6 million compared to a budget of £768,000. The council's investment portfolio included a property fund with a return of 4.4%. The committee noted the report and the positive outcomes.

Whistleblowing Policy

The committee discussed the updated whistleblowing policy for 2024-2026. The policy ensures that whistleblowers can report concerns anonymously and that all allegations are investigated thoroughly. The committee agreed to include timeframes in the policy's flowchart and noted the importance of addressing vexatious complaints appropriately. The policy was approved with the suggested amendments.

Anti-Money Laundering Policy

The committee reviewed the updated anti-money laundering policy for 2024-2026. The policy outlines the council's response to potential money laundering activities and ensures compliance with relevant legislation. The committee approved the policy.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

Councillor Philip Knowles presented the proposed KPIs for the corporate plan 2024-2027. The KPIs include measures for member development, mandatory training attendance, and personal development plans. The committee discussed the importance of both quantitative and qualitative measures and agreed to review the KPIs annually. The KPIs were approved.

Work Programme

The committee reviewed and noted the work programme for 2024-2025, which includes regular updates on internal audits, Treasury management, and other key areas.

The next meeting is scheduled for 17 July 2024.