Jenny Daniels

The Employment Committee established a politically balanced Sub-Committee of six elected members to shortlist, interview, and appoint the Executive Director of Children's Services. This delegation of authority was made on 18/06/2026. The Sub-Committee will shortlist and interview applicants and appoint the most suitable person for the position.

The Audit and Governance Committee received and noted the External Audit Plan for 2025/26 on 15/06/2026. The plan outlines the scope and timing of the statutory audit of the Council's financial statements and its arrangements for securing economy, efficiency, and effectiveness in the use of resources. The audit will consider significant risks including management override of controls, valuation of assets, and the pension fund liability.

The Audit and Governance Committee noted the Annual Internal Audit Report and Opinion for 2025/26 on 15/06/2026. The report provided an opinion on the adequacy and effectiveness of the Council's framework of risk management, control, and governance processes. The Chief Internal Auditor gave a 'Moderate Assurance' opinion on the Council's control environment for 2025/26.

The Audit and Governance Committee noted the Internal Audit progress report on 15/06/2026. The report summarised key findings from six completed audit assignments. These included findings on housing complaints, Approved Mental Health Professionals, procurement compliance, taxi licensing, home to school transport, and local taxation.

The Audit and Governance Committee decided to approve the Internal Audit Plan for 2026/27, the Internal Audit Charter and Mandate, and a delegation to the Executive Director of Finance to agree amendments to the Internal Audit Plan. The Committee also approved the Risk Management Policy and Strategy for 2026/27. The Audit and Governance Committee noted the Internal Audit progress report and the risk management update.