Audit And Review

Audit

"Internal audit is an independent appraisal function established by the management of an organisation for the review of the internal control system as a service to the organisation. It objectively examines, evaluates, and reports on the adequacy of internal control as a contribution to the proper, economic, efficient, and effective use of resources." (Auditing Practices Boards "Defining Internal Audit")

• To ensure that financial arrangements are adequate and effective in protecting the Council against the possibility of fraud, theft, or misappropriation under Section 151 of the Local Government Act 1972 and the Account and Audit Regulations 1996.

• Ensure that the Council's financial systems and procedures are secure, economic, efficient, and effective.

• Review, recommend, and advise customers on adequate and effective financial control to safeguard the Council against fraud or other loss.

• Maintain existing audit standards and seek to improve quality to customers.

Best Value

• To ensure that the statutory obligation is carried out at all levels within the organisation.

• To provide advice and support to managers undertaking Best Value Reviews.

• To ensure the organisation is meeting continuous improvement targets.

• To produce and publish the annual Best Value Performance Plan.

Data Protection

• To ensure all staff and councillors are aware of and comply with the Data Protection Act of 1998.

• To ensure all systems within the Council are registered under the Data Protection Act.

• To provide training, support, and advice on the Data Protection Act.

• To undertake subject access requests from individuals, providing them with the opportunity to view the personal information held.

Performance Review

• To ensure that the statutory requirement to collect and publish a range of performance indicators is met.

• To provide advice and support to managers collecting and monitoring performance indicators.

• To publish key performance indicators in the Annual Report and the Best Value Performance Plan.