January 2012 - Sandwell & West Birmingham Hospitals

SWBAC (12/11) 068
Mr White reported that the need to improve the performance against the
Prompt Payment target had been given a higher profile by including a
summary of performance within the divisional review process.
Mrs Hunjan asked whether the plans to improve further the position would
be included within ‘Hot Topics’ briefings. Mr White advised that this was an
option, however he suggested that a more targeted approach would be
more useful. It was highlighted that an improvement by the Finance
Department was needed particularly.
The Committee was assured that it remained the intention of achieving the
target of paying 95% of invoices within the required timeframe by the year
end.
Dr Sahota asked whether in some cases an invoice is requested for
payment in respect of goods not received. Mr White advised that this
situation occurred rarely.
3.2 Process for auditor CRB checks Verbal
Mr Stone advised that a process was in place within KPMG LLP to make
annual declarations and that the screening process for new staff was
routine. The Committee was advised that the team supporting the Trust
had advanced CRB clearance which was updated on a routine basis.
It was agreed that the position regarding CRB clearance for CW Audit
members should be determined at the next meeting.
ACTION:
Mr Grainger‐Payne to include CW Audit CRB clearance
status on the agenda of the next meeting
4 External Audit Matters
4.1 External Audit progress report SWBAC (12/11) 064
Mr Stone reported that the process for the 2010/11 audit had been
completed, including the necessary debriefing sessions. Meetings for the
2011/12 audit were reported to be being arranged at present.
The Committee was advised that meetings had been held with the Internal
Audit function to agree a revised structure for the review of financial
systems.
Mr Stone advised that the refreshed audit plan would be presented at the
next meeting, including the scope and timing of the audit of the Quality
Account.
A number of technical updates were presented, including the planned
updated and revised compliance framework for Foundation Trusts.
5 Internal Audit Matters
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