Audit Scotland
The Accounts Commission has published its findings on South Ayrshire
Council today, following its consideration of the latest update report from
Audit Scotland on the council’s progress in meeting its Best Value duties to
local people.
The Commission welcomes the good progress made by the council since
the last Best Value audit in April 2009, and urges it to continue with this as
there is still much to be done.
Chair of the Accounts Commission John Baillie said:
“South Ayrshire Council has made good progress in
addressing the improvements needed. Many of the elements for ensuring
Best Value are now in place. There is a culture of continuous improvement
developing throughout the council; financial stability has improved and a
medium-term financial strategy has been developed.”
“However there is much still to be done. As the council recognises, many
of the improvement activities and developments are still at an early stage. It
now needs to show that its performance is improving and continue with its
process of change and improvement.”
Today’s findings also highlight that, along with other councils, South
Ayrshire faces significant financial pressures and likely funding gaps which
require radical change across the public sector. The Commission says the
council must continue to ensure that it has the capacity for strategic
improvement, and keep this under review.
The Commission also recommends that the council:
- Moves quickly to ensure that all elements of an effective performance
management system are put in place. This would provide improved
information to support effective decision-making and scrutiny of
performance. - Develops its strategic approach to reviewing and improving its services
and also its capacity to present robust options appraisal. - Increases its focus on partnership working with neighbouring councils
and other public sector bodies to maximise the opportunities here, in order
to improve outcomes for its citizens. - Pays particular attention to developing its processes for engaging with
the community.
Audit Scotland also continues to work closely with other scrutiny bodies
to deliver a shared risk assessment of South Ayrshire Council. An Assurance
and Improvement Plan will be available shortly, and will provide a schedule
for audit and inspection work to assess continued progress.