The Audit & Risk Committee of Waverley Council met on Monday 17 June 2024 to discuss several key issues, including the council's whistleblowing policy, fraud investigations, and the internal audit plan for the upcoming quarters. Decisions were made to adopt the updated whistleblowing policy and to approve the internal audit plan for Q1 and Q2 of 2024-25.

Whistleblowing Policy

The committee reviewed and adopted the updated Whistleblowing Policy. The policy aims to provide a clear framework for employees to report concerns about wrongdoing within the council. The discussion highlighted the importance of protecting whistleblowers and ensuring that their concerns are addressed promptly and effectively. One member stated, It's crucial that we create an environment where employees feel safe to speak up without fear of retaliation.

Annual Whistleblowing Report

The Annual Whistleblowing Report 2023-2024 was presented, summarising the cases reported over the past year. The report indicated an increase in whistleblowing cases, which was attributed to greater awareness and confidence in the reporting process. The committee discussed the need for ongoing training and communication to maintain this positive trend.

Fraud Investigation Summary

The committee reviewed the Fraud Investigation Summary for Q1 of 2024-25, which detailed the council's efforts to detect and prevent fraud. The summary included several high-profile cases and the measures taken to address them. The committee emphasised the importance of robust internal controls and regular audits to mitigate fraud risks.

Internal Audit Plan

The Internal Audit Plan for Q1 and Q2 of 2024-25 was approved. The plan outlines the key areas of focus for the internal audit team, including financial management, governance, and compliance. The committee discussed the need for flexibility in the plan to address emerging risks and priorities. One member noted, Our audit plan must be dynamic and responsive to the changing risk landscape.

Annual Governance Statement

The draft Annual Governance Statement for 2023-24 was reviewed. The statement provides an overview of the council's governance framework and highlights areas for improvement. The committee discussed the importance of transparency and accountability in governance practices. It was agreed that the final statement would incorporate feedback from the committee and be presented at the next meeting.

Risk Management Framework

The Risk Management Framework was discussed, with a focus on enhancing the council's ability to identify and manage risks effectively. The committee reviewed the corporate risk descriptions and emphasised the need for regular updates to reflect the evolving risk environment. One member commented, Effective risk management is essential for the council to achieve its objectives and deliver value to the community.

Turnover and Retention

The committee examined the Turnover and Retention Report, which highlighted challenges in retaining skilled staff. The report suggested several strategies to improve retention, including enhanced training and development opportunities, competitive compensation, and a supportive work environment. The committee acknowledged the importance of addressing these issues to maintain a high-performing workforce.