The Assurance Process – How We Provide and Use Assurance Information

That we comply with our Code of Corporate Governance
That we deliver the services, and objectives set out in our Customer & Corporate Plan
That we take account of the views of stakeholders
That we use and account for public money properly
That the risks we face are effectively managed
That we comply with legislation, regulation and statutory guidance
That we get the best out of our Members and staff
That we collaborate effectively where it improves services
That we demonstrate the highest values and standards of ethical behaviour

The External Auditor’s Reports
The Internal Auditor’s Reports
HMICFRS inspection reports
Feedback received from our customers and partners
Senior managers’ self-assessment of key controls, including compliance with the CIPFA statement on “The Role of the Chief Financial Officer in Local Government”
Operational Assurance processes
Performance and risk monitoring and reporting
Staff appraisal and performance management
Comparison with our peers
Awards and accreditations received

Regular performance reports have been presented to Members via the Authority
Regular reports reviewed and monitored by Corporate Management Board and Corporate Portfolio Board
Regular monitoring of key performance information
Publishing of key performance information and data for public access and scrutiny
Regular reports and information to Government Departments
External and Internal Audit validation
Public scrutiny and challenge of key performance and financial information published on our website

Communicate our results to the public
Consider the findings, learn from the information received, and respond accordingly
Update our plans to deliver improvements
Revisit our key controls and make improvements where required
Provide additional training and support where needed
Monitor the achievement of the changes we make and the direction of travel
Develop a specific action plan to deliver any governance improvements required
Learn from experiences and continually look to improve