The Audit and Standards Committee of Staffordshire Council met on Tuesday 21 April 2026 to review the council's information governance, civil contingencies, and internal audit functions. Key decisions included the endorsement of updates to the council's constitution regarding the Staffordshire Health and Wellbeing Board and the approval of the proposed Internal Audit Strategy and Plan for 2026/27.

Annual Report on Information Governance 2025/26

The committee received the annual report on Information Governance for the period April 2025 to March 2026. Tracey Foley, Assistant Director for Corporate Operations, presented the report, highlighting a significant increase in Subject Access Requests (SARs), particularly concerning children's services, which had impacted response times. Despite this, the council reported a slight decline in security incidents and confirmed that all data breaches reported to the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) resulted in no further action. The report also detailed progress on data sharing agreements, freedom of information requests, and cyber security measures, including participation in the 'Get CAF Ready' programme and a £15,000 grant to enhance third-party and supply chain security. The committee accepted the report and its assurances regarding the council's information governance practices.

Annual Civil Contingencies Report 2025/26

Adam Cooper, Head of Registration Service & Emergency Planning, presented the annual Civil Contingencies Report for 2025/26. The report detailed the council's emergency planning, response, recovery, and business continuity arrangements, confirming their fitness for purpose and compliance with the Civil Contingencies Act 2004. Key achievements included the review and exercise of a COMAH site emergency plan, the implementation of a national power outage plan, and the introduction of the Staffordshire Multi-Agency Flood Plan. The report also outlined plans for the year ahead, focusing on resilient telecommunications, training programmes, and preparation for the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025. The committee accepted the report, acknowledging the council's preparedness for serious emergencies.

Internal Audit Charter 2026

Lisa Andrews, Assistant Director – Audit, Risk Management and Insurance Services, presented the proposed update to the Internal Audit Charter for 2026. The charter, which aligns with the Global Internal Audit Standards in the UK Public Sector, was reviewed and endorsed by the committee. A key change highlighted was the requirement for internal and external auditors to meet with the committee privately at least annually, without senior management present. The committee was assured that the charter ensures an independent, effective, and properly resourced internal audit function, safeguarding public funds.

Proposed Internal Audit Strategy & Plan 2026/27

Lisa Andrews also presented the proposed Internal Audit Strategy and Plan for 2026/27. The plan is risk-based and focuses on key areas such as new system implementations (Finance & HR ERP, and Care Case Management), Local Government Reorganisation, Children's Services, SEND, and cyber assurance. The strategy emphasizes strong financial management, digital innovation, and a proactive counter-fraud approach. The committee reviewed the proposed content and coverage of the strategy and plan and approved it, aligning with their responsibilities outlined in the Internal Audit Charter.

Proposed Update to the Constitution

Jennifer Norman, Member and Democratic Services Support Officer, presented a proposed update to the council's constitution concerning the Staffordshire Health and Wellbeing Board. The changes reflect a revised meeting structure, membership, and co-chairing arrangements for the board, which aim to improve its effectiveness and align with good practice. The committee noted these changes and endorsed them for referral to Full Council for the formal update of the constitution.

Forward Plan for the Audit and Standards Committee 2026/27

The committee reviewed the refreshed Forward Plan for 2026/27, noting its clarity and the cyclical nature of the committee's business. The plan outlines upcoming agenda items and provides an overview of the committee's work programme.

The meeting concluded with a short comfort break before moving to exempt items.