Kingston Council's Audit, Governance and Standards Committee has identified a need for improved oversight of Disabled Facilities Grants (DFG) following a recent internal audit. The audit revealed a lack of clearly defined procedural guidance for the Home Improvement Agency (HIA), Occupational Therapists (OTs), and surveyors involved in the DFG process.
The review, detailed in the Annual Internal Audit Report, also highlighted the necessity for a review of the Preferred List of Contractors and the establishment of a formal agreement or contract of works. The audit gave a limited opinion due to the number of Priority 2 recommendations made (19). Management has accepted all recommendations with implementation dates between August and November 2025.
The audit report, presented to the committee on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, also covered a range of other areas, including cemeteries and crematoria, Homes for Ukraine, building safety, health and safety, and supported living services. The Chief Audit Executive stated in the report that they were satisfied that sufficient internal audit work has been undertaken to allow me to draw a reasonable conclusion as to the adequacy and effectiveness of the Council's control environment.
However, they also noted that assurance can never be absolute, and, therefore, only reasonable assurance can be provided.
The committee, chaired by Councillor Lynn Henderson, also reviewed the external auditor's plans for the 2024/25 statement of accounts and pension fund accounts, as well as the Annual Treasury Management Report and a summary of complaints made under the Members' Code of Conduct.