Head of Internal Audit and Assurance
Barking and Dagenham Council is addressing a 'Very High' risk of failing to handle major incidents, identified in September 2026.
Barking and Dagenham Council is currently addressing a 'Very High' risk of failing to deal with major incidents, as identified in its corporate risk register in September 2026. A recent Audit and Risk Committee meeting discussed this concern, which stems from a perceived lack of adequate plans, capacity, or training to respond effectively to significant events.
The Head of Internal Audit and Assurance leads the internal audit and risk management functions, overseeing the council's ability to manage such risks. No upcoming meetings or specific next steps regarding this risk have been announced. Vanessa Bateman is named as Head of Assurance.
Key facts
- Barking and Dagenham Council faces a 'Very High' risk of failing to deal with major incidents. Source
- The council's corporate risk register was updated in September 2026. Source
- Failure to deal with a major or critical incident is highlighted as a Very High risk. Source
- This concern was discussed at a recent Audit and Risk Committee meeting. Source
- Vanessa Bateman is named as Head of Assurance. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 7 October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.