INTERNAL AUDIT REPORTING

INTERNAL AUDIT REPORTS
Members considered the audit report on health and safety. CRobertson highlighted a number of key points detailed within the report.

In discussion the following matters were raised:
• Members noted the most concerning recommendations related to prioritisation and culture. Whilst assured that management have accepted the recommendations, they sought further assurance that they are being appropriately prioritised. The Committee were told Police Scotland had requested the audit as the issues were known and the audit had further highlighted where the gaps are. Peter Jones (PJones) told the Committee real improvements had been made in risk assessments and more access to training and inputs has improved the culture aspect.
• Members sought further information on non-adherence to risk assessment guidance. PJones explained generic risk assessments weren’t getting used properly as they were being adapted to suit specific areas. He assured the Committee work was continuing to improve both the template and the guidance.
• Members sought comment from the Force Executive on the value being placed on Health and Safety. DCC Bex Smith (DCCSmith) stated that a lack of consistency is the main issue, and the Health and Safety manager has been clear to the Force Executive that it needs addressed. She confirmed that Health and Safety is on the Agenda at Management Boards.
• The Chair noted that the People Committee will also likely expect reporting on progress. PJones advised that the action plan is near completion which can be reported.

Members considered the audit report on management of recommendations. CRobertson highlighted a number of key points detailed within the report.

In discussion the following matters were raised:
• Tom McMahon acknowledged that the number of outstanding recommendations was unacceptable, and he explained that a broader conversation is taking place about how governance can be more connected, to move away from silo executive ownership. He assured the Committee that work will move at pace to implement changes within a reasonable timeframe.
• Committee Members reiterated the importance of moving at pace to reduce the number of recommendations.
• John Paterson (JPaterson) commented that HMICS are seeing improvements, and recommendations and risks were clearly reported within DCCSmiths portfolio. He encouraged audit and inspection bodies to work with Police Scotland on older recommendation to look at whether the outcome has been achieved.

Members noted the report