URL: https://democracy.runnymede.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=1648

Decision Maker:

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose:

Content: The Committee noted the Internal Audit Annual Audit Conclusion for 2025/26.   SIAP were pleased to report that in their opinion, sufficient assurance and advisory work had been carried out in order for them to form a ‘reasonable’ conclusion on the adequacy and effectiveness of the internal control environment.  In their opinion the Council’s framework of governance, risk management and control were reasonable, and audit testing had demonstrated controls to be working in practice.    In addition, SIAP reported that where weaknesses had been identified through internal audit review, they had worked with management to agree appropriate corrective actions and a timescale for improvement.   SIAP made reference to the Regulator of Social Housing’s report and judgement.  Officers were satisfied that the Council was working with the Regulator to build on the existing improvement plan, noting that the Council had self-referred having identified an historical rent setting issue prior to the regulatory inspection.  The establishment of the Housing Improvement programme and board was clear evidence of engagement and an intention to maintain performance standards.  Members considered there would be clear signs of progress to report by the end of March 2027.   SIAP assured that provision had been made within the 2026/27 programme to follow this up in discussion with the Council’s Corporate Leadership Team to determine the specific scope and timing of the audit.   The Committee was advised that in respect of acceptance of risk, SIAP were not aware of any instances where management had accepted a level of risk that was felt to exceed the Council’s risk appetite or risk tolerance.   With regard to SIAP’s own performance, although some audit reviews had been technically late, all had been completed for the year.   Members asked what would happen in terms of a handover to the West Surrey Council.  Officers sought to re-assure the Committee that the 2026/27 audit plan was on track for final reporting in March 2027.  If there were any outstanding actions or recommendations arising during the year these would be collated accordingly.   SIAP thanked Officers for their collaborative approach, which was echoed by Members, and the report was duly noted.

Date of Decision: May 28, 2026