URL: https://democracy.ribblevalley.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=1451

Decision Maker: Policy and Finance

Outcome:

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose:

Content: At this point in the meeting, the order of business was varied and Committee proceeded to consider Item 30.   The Director of Resources and Deputy Chief Executive submitted a report outlining recent developments concerning the Council’s Internal Audit Service and providing Members with proposals for the future provision of the service so as to ensure the effective continuation of an internal audit function.   It was noted that the Council currently operate an in-house internal audit service, although this is currently being provided by MIAA due to recurring recruitment issues.   There have been recruitment issues for a number of years and following a recent resignation the Council are in a position where all posts are vacant within the team. The exception is the Internal Audit Assistant post which had been repurposed to undertake the non-audit duties that fell to the Internal Audit team.   The Council is required to have an internal audit function, but there are options for this to be provided in-house, outsourced or through shared services. The report sought approval for outsourcing of the internal audit function. This should address issues of resilience and ensure access to a wider base of audit skills and knowledge. The impending Local Government Reorganisation also has a weighting on the reasons for the suggestion of outsourcing the service.   RESOLVED THAT COMMITTEE:   Approve the outsourcing of the council’s Internal Audit service.  

Date of Decision: March 31, 2026