The meeting began with housekeeping announcements and a roll call. Chief Finance Officer Paul Mitchell was thanked for his service as he is leaving. The agenda was adjusted to accommodate Judith McLennan's schedule. The minutes of the previous meeting were approved, and the business planner was discussed without issues. The main topics discussed were the quarterly performance report, the review of duties and year-end report, the directions update report, the unaudited annual accounts, the internal audit update report, the internal audit annual report, and the primary care improvement plan.

Quarterly Performance Report

Judith McLennan provided an update on the quarter four delivery plan. The report aimed to assure the committee about the progress of the delivery plan. Key changes were noted in metrics related to mental health, disability, inpatient special services, and child adolescent mental health services. Judith explained the range of services provided, including those at Royal Cornhill Hospital, and the challenges faced, such as bed occupancy and delayed discharges. Questions were raised about the performance data and the integration of social care with healthcare services.

Review of Duties and Year-End Report

Judith introduced the annual report, which reviewed the committee's work from April 2023 to March 2024. The report indicated that all expected reports were submitted and that the committee performed its duties effectively. The committee agreed to the recommendations.

Directions Update Report

Alison presented the six-monthly update on directions. Nine directions were completed, 29 were ongoing, three were amber, and one was red. The red direction related to the Navigator project, which faced delays. The committee discussed the need for more detailed reporting in future updates. The recommendations were agreed upon.

Unaudited Annual Accounts

Paul Mitchell presented the draft annual accounts. The main concern was the reduction in usable reserves, primarily due to a £10.7 million overspend. The committee discussed the importance of ongoing dialogue with Aberdeen City Council and NHS Grampian. The recommendations were agreed upon.

Internal Audit Update Report

Jamie provided an update on the internal audit plan and the follow-up of recommendations. The committee discussed the training for adults with incapacity funds management, which is ongoing and will be incorporated into the induction process for new staff. The recommendations were agreed upon.

Internal Audit Annual Report

Jamie presented the annual report, which provided a formal opinion on the board's governance, risk management, and internal control. The report concluded that the board has an adequate and effective framework. The recommendations were agreed upon.

Primary Care Improvement Plan

Alison Penman presented the biannual update on the Primary Care Improvement Plan (PCIP). The report highlighted ongoing improvement work and identified risks, such as finance and recruitment. The committee discussed the recruitment of three new physiotherapists and the need to double the number of specialist pharmacotherapy practitioners. The recommendations were agreed upon.

Other Business

There was no exempt or confidential business. The next meeting was scheduled for September 10th. The meeting concluded with thanks and best wishes.