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The Audit Committee meets 4 times each year. Political balance rules and regulations apply.

The Audit Committee is a key component of the Authority’s governance framework. The Audit Committee’s purpose is to provide those responsible for governance with independent assurance on the adequacy of the risk management framework, annual governance processes and the internal control environment.

The core functions are to:

• Consider the effectiveness of the Authority’s risk management arrangements, the control environment and associated anti-fraud and anti-corruption arrangements;
• Seek assurances that action is being taken on risk related issues identified by auditors and inspectors;
• Be satisfied that the Authority’s assurances statements properly reflect the risk environment and identify the proportionate actions required to improve it;
• Approve (but not direct) internal audit’s strategy plan;
• Approve the Annual Accounts (noting that the Resources Committee will also monitor the financial position throughout each financial year, including the year-end out-turn position);
• Monitor progress against the Internal Audit Plan;
• Receive the annual report of the Head of Internal Audit;
• Consider the reports of external audit and inspection agencies;
• Approve amendments to Standing Orders, Financial Regulations and The Scheme of Delegation
• Review assimilation and response to appropriate Government Consultation documents on behalf of the Authority affecting fire and rescue authorities generally, from Central Government, LGA, NFCC or any other source.

The Committee will have decision making powers in relation to the above areas. In exceptional circumstances the Committee may refer issues to the Authority for a decision.

• Any items referred to the Committee by the Authority or Strategy Group who will indicate if a decision or recommendation is required, including any transitional matter referred to it for a decision.