Audit committees are a vital part of any organisation
A dedicated, effective committee is key to supporting good governance, strong financial management and effective internal and external audit all public sector bodies – as well as local government and police.
CIPFA sets out the key principles of audit committees in a regularly-updated position statement, as well as offering a range of resources and training for both members of audit committee and those interacting with them.
Policy and research
The CIPFA Position Statement on Audit Committees sets out the principles we recommend committees operating in local government follow.
In 2016 CIPFA conducted surveys of audit committees in UK local authorities and of police in England and Wales. The survey findings are set out in a series of briefings on key themes, including audit committee effectiveness, working with internal audit and training and support for the committee..
Guidance
We publish additional guidance to support the establishment and effective operation of audit committees. These publications cover the core functions of committees, including relevant legislation and professional standards that the members should be aware of and a framework to support the appointment, training and development of audit committee members and resources to enable self-evaluation and improvement planning.
CIPFA published its updated guidance publication Audit Committees: Practical Guidance for Local Authorities and Police (2022 edition) in October 2022.
We regularly publish briefings for audit committee members, with in-depth articles and updates on the latest developments in the sector. They are available through the Better Governance Forum.
Training and events
CIPFA runs a regular programme of audit committee events, covering roles and responsibilities, core functions and new developments. Regional venues provide the opportunity to network with other audit committee members.
In-house training
Our training can also be delivered in-house at your organisation, covering a range of topics such as:
- roles and responsibilities
- understanding good governance
- risk management
- working with and supporting internal audit
- external audit
- counter fraud
- reviewing the financial statements
- practical skills
Contact us for more information on 020 7543 5600 or customerservices@cipfa.org.
Consultation and advisory services
CIPFA is able to deliver a range of advisory services such as a review of committee effectiveness. Contact our our team for more information: customerservices@cipfa.org or 020 7543 5600.
Micro Modules
Our micro modules are free of charge and offer quick introductions to selected topics. Prepared by CIPFA’s subject matter experts, they deliver key information in an easily digestible, online format.
View our micro modules on:
For the full list of our available micro modules, visit www.cipfa.org/training/micro-modules