Why including Programme Assurance in 2025/26 Audit Plans is essential
With the ever-evolving list of challenges facing Local Government, ensuring the success of complex council programmes is paramount. As we approach the 2025/26 audit cycle, Heads of Internal Audit are increasingly recognising the indispensable role of Programme Assurance in safeguarding these endeavours. Programme Assurance not only serves as a critical tool for maintaining oversight but also acts as a proactive measure to minimise risk and ensure that anticipated outcomes are achieved.
Importance of Programme Assurance
Programme Assurance plays a crucial role in ensuring the success of complex council initiatives. Let's explore the key aspects that make it indispensable for public sector organisations.
Scrutiny and Insight for Success
Programme Assurance provides a critical lens through which to examine and understand the progress of council programmes. This scrutiny offers valuable insights that can significantly impact the success rate of complex initiatives.
By implementing robust Programme Assurance practices, councils can gain a clear view of their project's status, potential roadblocks, and areas for improvement. This level of insight allows for timely adjustments and informed decision-making.
Regular assurance activities help maintain alignment between project objectives and organisational goals, ensuring that resources are utilised effectively and efficiently.
Early-Warning System for Risks
One of the most valuable aspects of Programme Assurance is its function as an early-warning system for potential risks and issues. This proactive approach can save councils significant time, resources, and reputation.
By identifying risks early, Programme Assurance allows project teams to:
Develop mitigation strategies before problems escalate
Reallocate resources to address emerging issues
Adjust timelines and expectations to maintain stakeholder confidence
One Eighty Advisory specialises in providing this crucial early-warning capability, helping councils stay ahead of potential challenges.
Enhancing Programme Governance
Programme Assurance significantly enhances governance structures within council initiatives. It provides a framework for accountability, transparency, and effective decision-making.
Strong governance, supported by Programme Assurance, ensures that:
Projects remain aligned with strategic objectives
Resources are allocated efficiently
Stakeholders are kept informed and engaged
By integrating Programme Assurance into governance processes, councils can create a culture of continuous improvement and responsible project management.
Key Benefits for 2025/26 Audit Plans
Incorporating Programme Assurance into your 2025/26 audit plans offers numerous advantages. Let's examine the key benefits that make it an essential component of your strategy.
Assurance as a Decision-Making Tool
Programme Assurance serves as a powerful decision-making tool for council leaders and project managers. By providing comprehensive, data-driven insights, it enables more informed and strategic choices throughout the project lifecycle.
This assurance-based approach to decision-making helps:
Prioritise resources effectively
Identify and address bottlenecks quickly
Align project outcomes with organisational goals
One Eighty Advisory offers tailored assurance services that can significantly enhance your council's decision-making capabilities.
Minimise Risk and Maximise Value
Effective Programme Assurance is instrumental in minimising risks while maximising the value derived from council initiatives. This dual benefit is crucial for public sector organisations operating under tight budgets and high scrutiny.
By implementing robust assurance practices, councils can:
Identify and mitigate potential risks early
Ensure projects deliver intended benefits
Optimise resource allocation for maximum impact
The Project Management Institute estimates that 10% of project spend is wasted due to poor management. Programme Assurance helps councils avoid this pitfall and ensure taxpayer money is used efficiently.
One Eighty Advisory: Your Programme Assurance Partner
One Eighty Advisory, under the expert guidance of Katie Lynch, brings decades of experience to the table, offering unparalleled insights into effective Programme Audit practices. By leveraging our comprehensive diagnostic assessments and independent evaluations, Council programmes can be optimised to deliver success while adhering to the highest standards of governance.
Independent Perspective from Experts
An independent perspective is invaluable in Programme Assurance. External experts bring fresh insights, industry best practices, and objective assessments that can significantly improve project outcomes.
One Eighty Advisory provides this crucial independent viewpoint, offering:
Unbiased evaluations of project health
Recommendations based on extensive experience
Benchmarking against industry standards
This external expertise complements internal knowledge, creating a more comprehensive and effective assurance process.
Expertise in Complex Council Programmes
One Eighty Advisory brings unparalleled expertise to the table, with a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by council programmes. Their team, led by Katie Lynch, an ex-PwC Programme Assurance specialist, has over 20 years of experience in public sector programme management.
This expertise translates into:
Tailored assurance strategies for council-specific needs
Insights based on extensive public sector experience
Practical solutions that consider the complexities of council operations
By partnering with One Eighty Advisory, councils can leverage this wealth of knowledge to enhance their Programme Assurance practices significantly.
Proven Client Satisfaction and Value
One Eighty Advisory has built a strong reputation for delivering high-quality Programme Assurance services that provide real value for money. Their track record of client satisfaction speaks to the effectiveness of their approach.
“Katie was diligent, inconspicuous in her approach and outstandingly accurate in her narratives. A highly credible professional.”
This testimonial, along with many others, demonstrates the positive impact One Eighty Advisory has on council programmes. By choosing them as your assurance partner, you're investing in a proven solution that can significantly enhance your 2025/26 audit plans and overall programme success.
