Issue - meetings

Grant Thornton, as the Council’s appointed External Auditors, have produced a report (Appendix A) which provides an update to the Audit & Governance Committee on their progress to date in delivering their responsibilities.  The report provides an update on their audit work.

The Key Audit Partner, Grant Thornton, the Council’s External Auditor (EA) presented a report, a copy of which had been circulated to each Member and a copy of which appears as Appendix 'A' to these Minutes in the Minute Book.

Appendix A of the report provided an update on the EA’s progress to date in delivering its responsibilities in relation to audit work. The EA highlighted the key points of note in relation to the Financial Statements Audit 2025/26 as detailed in the report. It was noted that a draft timeline and detailed workplan had been shared with the Council on 30 April 2026, demonstrating how the 30 November 2026 deadline was expected to be met. Given the disclaimed opinion since the 2022/23 audit backstop, discussions had begun with the Council on restoring assurance and progressing towards an unqualified audit opinion. The EA highlighted the key points of note in relation to Value for Money work. The report also included a summary of emerging national issues and developments potentially relevant to the Council.

In the course of the discussion, Members raised questions in relation to the Dedicated Schools Grant deficit and the Council’s SEND reform programme, including the anticipated timing of government funding and the assumptions within the Council’s financial planning.

In response, the Interim Chief Financial Officer advised that the Council was required to submit its SEND reform plan by mid-June 2026, with any associated funding anticipated later in the financial year, subject to approval. The EA further advised that the Value for Money assessment would reflect the Council’s arrangements in place at the relevant time, including how the remaining unfunded element of the deficit would be managed.

Further questions were raised in relation to progress towards restoring audit assurance and the potential impact of changes to asset valuation requirements arising from updated CIPFA guidance. The EA advised that the changes were intended to simplify valuation processes over time and reduce audit complexity.

Following consideration, the Committee requested that further information be provided on the financial assumptions underpinning the SEND reform programme.

RESOLVED that the Audit & Governance Committee notes the External Auditor’s progress to date in delivering its responsibilities and the sector update provided.

Voting: Nem. Con.