The Standards and Audit Committee of Chesterfield Council met on Wednesday, 12 June 2024, to discuss various updates and reports. Key decisions included the approval of updates to the Constitution regarding Tenant ASB Reviews and the approval of the Internal Audit Plan for 2024/25.

Leisure Centres Update

The Leisure Service Manager provided a verbal update on the progress against the Queens Park Sports Centre Income Internal Audit Report. The team has been working towards meeting all outstanding recommendations. It was noted that the Healthy Living Centre showed a higher percentage of compliance, indicating that recommendations were being implemented effectively.

Updates to Constitution

The Head of Regulatory Law and Monitoring Officer presented a report on updates to the Constitution concerning Tenant ASB Reviews and Decisions. The proposed delegations were outlined in paragraph 4.9 of the officer’s report. The committee approved the report and the changes to the Constitution.

Chesterfield Borough Council Internal Audit Plan 2024/25

The Head of the Internal Audit Consortium presented the Internal Audit Plan for 2024/25. The plan is risk-based and flexible to reflect changing risks and priorities. It was noted that there has been a gradual reduction in time spent on main financial systems, allowing more focus on other areas posing greater risk. The committee approved the plan, noting that it may need adjustments based on emerging risks or staff shortages.

Review of the Code of Corporate Governance and the Annual Governance Statement

The Head of the Internal Audit Consortium presented a report on the Annual Review of the Local Code of Corporate Governance for 2023/24 and the Annual Governance Statement for 2023/24. The review demonstrated substantial compliance with the Code of Corporate Governance. The Annual Governance Statement highlighted some governance issues and future challenges. The committee approved the statement and agreed to review the Code of Corporate Governance in 12 months.

Implementation of Internal Audit Recommendations

A report detailing the summary of outstanding internal audit recommendations was presented. There were 26 outstanding recommendations, categorized as high, medium, and low priority. The committee noted the report and requested a further summary in October 2024.

Internal Audit Progress Report April 2024

The Head of the Internal Audit Consortium submitted a report on the progress against the 2023/24 Internal Audit Plan. Five reports were issued, with varying levels of assurance. The committee requested that the Service Director – Economic Growth and the Corporate Property Manager provide an update at the next meeting on 12 June 2024.

The Chair informed the committee about upcoming CIPFA training and noted that this would be the last meeting attended by the Head of Regulatory Law and Monitoring Officer, who was thanked for his service.