The Audit Committee of Doncaster Council was scheduled to convene on Thursday 21 May 2026 to review several key reports and plans related to the council's financial governance and fraud prevention. Discussions were set to cover counter-fraud activities, the council's anti-fraud framework, and internal and external audit plans.

Counter Fraud Activity Report

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the council's counter-fraud activities. This report would have detailed the work undertaken to prevent and detect fraud within the council's operations.

Anti-Fraud, Bribery and Corruption Framework 2026-2029

A significant item on the agenda was the proposed Anti-Fraud, Bribery and Corruption Framework for the period 2026-2029. This framework outlines the council's strategy and policies for combating fraud, bribery, and corruption over the next three years. The report pack indicated that the framework aims to establish a robust system for identifying, reporting, and investigating all forms of fraud, bribery, and corruption, ensuring that appropriate disciplinary and legal action is taken where necessary. It also details the roles and responsibilities of staff and elected members in upholding these principles.

Internal Audit Charter and Strategy

The Audit Committee was scheduled to consider the Internal Audit Charter and Strategy. This document defines the purpose, authority, and responsibilities of the internal audit function within Doncaster Council. It would have outlined the principles guiding internal audit work, its commitment to professional standards, and its strategic objectives for ensuring effective governance, risk management, and control processes.

Internal Audit Plan 2026/27

The committee was also set to review the Internal Audit Plan for the financial year 2026/27. This plan details the specific audits and reviews that the internal audit team intends to undertake during the upcoming year. It is developed based on a risk assessment of the council's operations and aims to provide assurance on the effectiveness of internal controls across various departments and services.

External Auditor (Grant Thornton) Audit Plan 2025/26

Finally, the Audit Committee was scheduled to examine the Audit Plan for 2025/26 from the council's external auditors, Grant Thornton. This plan sets out the scope and approach that Grant Thornton will take in conducting the statutory audit of the council's financial statements for the year ending March 2026. It would have detailed the key areas of focus for the audit, including financial reporting, value for money, and compliance with statutory requirements.