The Audit and Standards Committee of Warwickshire County Council met on Thursday 19 March 2026 to review the council's financial management code self-assessment, approve accounting policies, and discuss the internal audit plan. The committee noted progress on financial management improvements, approved the accounting policies for the upcoming financial year, and endorsed the internal audit plan for 2026-27.

CIPFA Financial Management Code Self-Assessment

The committee reviewed Warwickshire County Council's self-assessment against the CIPFA Financial Management Code for 2025-26. Andrew Harper, Head of Strategic Finance, presented the report, which indicated that the council continues to meet the standards set out in the Code, achieving a green status across all areas. The assessment highlighted ongoing processes of continuous improvement rather than compliance requirements. Councillor David Curtis commended the leadership team's ability to demonstrate value for money and the council's understanding of sustainability. Councillor Mark Stevens inquired about the successor investment model mentioned in relation to the Warwickshire Investment Fund, which is due to conclude next financial year. Rob Powell, Executive Director for Resources, explained that this relates to a policy decision about whether a successor fund is needed. Councillor Richard Dickson raised a point about the alignment of planned developments with the committee's work programme, particularly regarding the introduction of a new code of corporate governance. Andrew Harper confirmed that the new code of corporate governance is being worked on and is planned to be presented to the committee in the autumn, aligning with the annual governance statement.

Annual Refresh of Accounting Policies

The committee was asked to approve the accounting policies for the 2025-26 financial year. Andrew Harper explained that there had been no significant updates to the council's accounting policies, and the existing ones remain appropriate. Minor updates were noted to ensure compliance with the CIPFA Code of Practice on Local Authority Accounting. Councillor Richard Dickson raised a point about the going concern policy in the context of local government reorganisation, questioning how these policies differ from those of district and borough councils. Rob Powell noted that while there are similarities, differences exist due to the nature and scale of organisations, and harmonisation of policies will be necessary as part of local government reorganisation. Councillor David Curtis asked about the presentation of contingent assets and liabilities, and Andrew Harper clarified that these are recognised in the notes to the accounts until triggers are met for their recognition as expenses or assets. The committee also discussed the impact of IFRS 17 on insurance contracts, with Andrew Harper confirming that any impact would be reflected through the CIPFA code. A positive update was provided regarding the new accounting policy for minimum revenue provision, with external auditors Grant Thornton confirming their satisfaction with the proposed policy. Rob Powell provided a detailed explanation of the government's support for Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) deficits, including the introduction of a high-needs stability grant. He highlighted the significant impact this would have on the council's financial resilience, particularly in addressing the cumulative deficit. Andrew Harper confirmed that the grant would be received from the 2026-27 financial year and would not affect the 2025-26 accounts. The committee agreed to delegate authority to the Executive Director of Resources to make any immaterial amendments to the accounting policies during the production of the accounts.

Internal Audit Plan 2026-27

Paul Clarke, Internal Audit Manager, presented the Internal Audit Strategy and Plan for 2026-27. The plan is developed in accordance with internal audit standards and considers the council's risks, senior management consultations, and national intelligence. Councillor Mark Stevens raised concerns about the potential impact of Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) on operational efficiency and the risk of losing key resources. Paul Clarke assured that the plan would look at the overall governance of the LGR process and contingency plans for resource availability. Councillor Stevens also inquired about the council's current position on cyber security. Paul Clarke stated that he receives assurance from the IT team's work and independent testing, and that cyber security is a constant area of attack. Councillor Sandy Shergill asked about the need for specialist resources for cyber security audits, and Paul Clarke confirmed that a procurement process is underway to bring in specialists as required. Councillor Richard Dickson endorsed the focus on cyber security, noting a recent major attack on a local employer. He also inquired about the vetting of the audit plan with external auditors and the planned audit of the Warwickshire Property Development Group (WPDG). Paul Clarke confirmed liaison with external auditors and that the focus on WPDG would be on managing risks to the county council, not providing assurance to the group itself. Councillor David Curtis noted minor typographical errors in the dates within the plan. The committee expressed a high level of interest in cyber security and requested it be prioritised. Rob Powell mentioned a recent cyber security simulation exercise and plans for a local event to raise awareness. The committee approved the plan for the year ahead.

Work Programme and Future Meeting Dates

John Cole, Senior Democratic Services Officer, provided an update on the self-assessment work being undertaken by colleagues. He stated that a summary report would be circulated to members before June.

Minutes of the Previous Meeting

An amendment was made to the minutes of the meeting held on 25 November 2025 to include an additional paragraph expressing concern about the growth in the number of complaints. The minutes were then accepted, subject to this amendment.

Any Other Business

Rob Powell provided an update on the government's funding for Special Educational Needs (SEND).

Exempt or Confidential Information

The committee moved to consider reports containing exempt or confidential information, with members of the public excluded from the meeting.