Agenda item

The Service Director Finance submitted a report, which, in his absence, was presented by the Head of Internal Audit, Anti-Fraud and Assurance detailing the financial performance of the Authority during the first quarter ended 30^th June, 2021 and assessing the implications against the Council’s Medium-Term Financial Strategy.  The report also provided an update on the ongoing impact of Covid-19 on the Council’s 2021/22 budget and beyond.

It was noted that the report would be submitted to the Cabinet meeting on the 22^nd September, 2021 and was submitted to this meeting for information and reference.

In the ensuing discussion, the following matters were highlighted:

·         Reference was made to the publication in August of a National Audit Report on an analysis of the financial sustainability of local authorities.  This enabled comparisons to be made of Barnsley’s position with Metropolitan and other authorities.  It was felt that it would be useful if the Service Director Finance could submit a report to a future meeting giving an analysis of any issues identified or any implications for Barnsley.  It would also give the opportunity for the External Auditor to give an independent overview of the Council’s arrangements for financial resilience

·         It was noted that most of the overspend related to Covid, however, in relation to Children’s Services there was a significant overspend and questions were asked as to whether or not this was due to an unrealistic budget being set and also, what strategies were in place to bring the budget back into line.  Further information would be provided on this.  It was pointed out, however, that certain services were demand led and this could be a factor in any overspend

RESOLVED:

(i)             that the report be noted; and

(ii)          That the Service Director Finance submit reports on the National Audit Report on the financial sustainability of local authorities and the overspend in relation to Children’s Services.