Issue - meetings

The committee received and considered a report presenting the refreshed Strategic Risk Register for 2026/27.

It was explained that the register had been refreshed to reflect the new corporate plan and the three policy commitees, the strategic risks were also reported to the policy meetings.

A member sought clarification of the risk ratings and whether the presentation in the report was correct. The issue of the risks associated with Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) was also highlighted. It was suggested that there were significant changes at the moment and it may be appropriate to have a further report earlier than the usual six months.

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It was outlined that the register now had a higher profile with members and officers and was discussed at Service Head meetings to monitor actions and controls as well as member meetings. There was increased visibility across the organisation and greater scrutiny. It was agreed that more regular reports could be provided if required. A number of members expressed support for this approach following the next six-monthly report when issues around LGR would be clearer. A member further emphasised the impact of LGR and asked officers to identify ongoing risks and inform members.

A member referred to climate change and the need to be aware of the risks associated with that. It was acknowledged that this was difficult to reflect in the risk strategy but the impact on communities needed to be considered. The concern was acknowledged and members were reminded the risk document was not static and was constantly being reviewed and updated. It was noted that climate change would be discussed at the Thriving Council Panel.

Discussion ensued regarding the timing of discussions around risks at both officer and member forums and the reporting of the outcomes to members. It was noted that the reports required a lot of work so the solution could be a summary report ahead of the next full report in January. It was considered that tis together with the work of the policy committees could be sufficient.

RESOLVED:

That the report be noted and a further summary report be presented to November 2026 meeting.