Audit and Governance Committee fulfil an important role by providing additional and independent focus on governance issues, including the promotion of the principles of good governance.
The committee provides independent assurance and assistance to those responsible for governance on the adequacy of the council's risk management frameworks, internal control environments, the integrity of financial reporting and annual governance processes, including the work of both internal and external auditors.
In addition, the Audit and Governance Committee is required to determine complaints against councillors which have been investigated and where an 'independent person' has made a finding that a breach of the Code of Conduct has occurred. The committee may censure a councillor found to have breached the code, or recommend other action. The committee does not have powers to suspend or sanction a councillor.
Whistleblowing is a way for employees, and other council workers, including councillors, agency staff, contractors, suppliers, plus staff working in partnership with the council, to raise a genuine concern about danger or illegality, usually because it threatens others (e.g. customers, or the public).
The council is committed to the highest possible standards of openness, propriety and integrity. In line with this commitment, employees and other council workers with serious concerns are encouraged to come forward and voice those concerns.
The Whistleblowing Hotline number is 01394 444222. A voicemail message greets all calls and you are requested to leave a message and your contact details.