Issue - meetings

The Committee was presented with an update on the Fraud Risk Assessment and Counter Fraud and Anti-Bribery Work Plan from the Section 151 Officer. It was explained that the update followed an independent Fraud Risk Assessment which had been requested by the Committee. The assessment had highlighted 38 recommendations for the Council to address, and it was reported that 22 of those had been fully implemented, with a further five or six due to be implemented after the Committee meeting.

The Section 151 Officer summarised some of the new changes, adding that processes for reporting disclosures would be easier for both Members and senior Officers. Members were reassured of the Council’s approach and were informed that a further audit in 2025/26 was welcomed to identify any further required improvements.

The Section 151 Officer gave specific examples in response to a question enquiring about the content of the 38 recommendations.

A Member of the Committee commended the Council’s management and stressed the importance of continued assurance in the wake of any future local government changes.

The Chairman reiterated the need to continue the counter-fraud and anti-bribery work; it was requested for the Management Team to ensure that an assessment of the Council’s progress in relation to counter-fraud and anti-bribery was formally included as part of the future Internal Audit Plan.

With no requirement for a vote, the report was DULY NOTED.