The Audit, Standards and Statutory Accounts Committee met on Thursday 26 February 2026 to discuss the Member Induction and Refresher Programme, an update on internal audit work, and the findings of the Twickenham Riverside audit report. The committee noted the proposed induction programme for councillors, received an update on the progress of internal audits, and reviewed the outcomes of the Twickenham Riverside project audit, noting that all recommendations have been agreed upon.

Member Induction and Refresher Programme

The committee was presented with the proposed induction and training programme for new and returning councillors following the May 2026 local elections. The programme, designed to equip members with the necessary knowledge and skills for their roles, will be delivered over 12-18 months. It includes mandatory courses, role-specific training, and individual support. A welcome evening is scheduled for 12 May 2026, followed by a Members' Fair on 14 May 2026. The programme will also incorporate external development opportunities and ICT equipment provision, with a survey to gather feedback for future improvements. The cost of the programme will be met from existing budgets.

Internal Audit Update Report

An update on the work carried out by internal audit between April 2025 and January 2026 was provided. The committee noted that out of the 42 reviews in the plan, 21 were at draft or final stage, 14 were in progress, and 7 were planned to start. The report highlighted that there were no audits issued with a Limited Assurance or No Assurance opinion since the last committee meeting. However, there were overdue Priority 1 recommendations concerning the Use of Fleet Vehicles and Resident & Nursing – Care UK Contract . The committee was informed of resourcing challenges within the audit team, with five vacancies in October 2025, now reduced to one, and the team being supported by contractors and Mazars.

Twickenham Riverside Audit Report

The committee reviewed the findings of the internal audit of the Twickenham Riverside Project. The audit provided a Reasonable Assurance opinion, indicating that core project controls are largely in place and operating effectively. Strengths identified included a clear governance structure with a Project Board and Sponsor Board, sound financial monitoring, and active risk management. However, the audit highlighted areas for improvement, including the consistency of monthly reporting to governance boards, the need for stronger documentation of contractor meetings and variations, the absence of a formal benefits realisation tracking method, and the lack of an approved communications strategy. The report also noted minor discrepancies in financial reporting and the absence of a formal lessons learned log. Management has agreed to all recommendations, with implementation dates ranging from December 2025 to April/May 2026. Progress on these recommendations was noted as strong, with all recommendations due by their target dates having been completed.

Committee Work Programme

The committee noted its work programme, which includes receiving the Final Audit Charter, Strategy and Audit Plan, and an Internal Audit update report at its meeting on 14 April 2026.