The Governance & Audit Committee of Blaenau Gwent Council met on Wednesday, 19 June 2024, to discuss several key issues, including the forward work programme for 2024-25, the complaints report for October 2023 to March 2024, and the SRS IT internal audit report. Decisions were made on the adoption of the forward work programme and the approval of the audit plan for 2024-29.

Forward Work Programme 2024-25

The committee reviewed and approved the Forward Work Programme for 2024-25. This document outlines the key areas of focus for the upcoming year, including internal audits, risk management, and governance reviews. The programme aims to ensure that the council's operations are efficient and transparent. Councillors discussed the importance of aligning the work programme with the council's strategic objectives and ensuring that all planned audits are completed within the specified timeframe.

Complaints Report - October 2023 to March 2024

The Complaints Report for the period of October 2023 to March 2024 was presented, highlighting the number and nature of complaints received by the council. The report showed a slight increase in complaints compared to the previous period. The committee discussed the need for improved communication with residents and better handling of complaints to enhance public trust. One councillor noted, We must ensure that every complaint is addressed promptly and effectively to maintain the confidence of our constituents.

SRS IT Internal Audit Report

The committee examined the SRS IT Internal Audit Report, which assessed the effectiveness of the council's IT systems and cybersecurity measures. The audit identified several areas for improvement, including the need for enhanced data protection protocols and regular system updates. The committee agreed on the importance of implementing the audit's recommendations to safeguard the council's digital infrastructure.

Audit Plan 2024-29

The Audit Plan for 2024-29 was also approved during the meeting. This plan sets out the long-term strategy for internal audits, focusing on high-risk areas and ensuring compliance with statutory requirements. The committee emphasised the need for a robust audit plan to identify potential issues early and mitigate risks effectively.

Other Discussions

Other topics discussed included the review of the Concerns Complaints Policy and the presentation of the SRS IT Covering Report. These discussions focused on ensuring that the council's policies and procedures are up-to-date and effective in addressing current challenges.