Decision Reference Number: WPCC4-0015
Lead Officer: Sara Ansell, PCC Chief Finance Officer
Chief Officer approval: Not required
Date: 11th July 2024
Status: Non-confidential
Decision summary:
The PCC’s risk management policy was last reviewed and formally approved in August 2021. A fundamental review of risk management processes at the OPCC has been undertaken over the last 12 months, and the policy has now been updated to reflect the current arrangements that are in place to manage risk. The risk management policy reflects recent changes and provides details on the processes for dealing with both strategic and operational risk, at the OPCC.
The risk management strategy was presented to the Joint Audit and Standards Committee (JASC) on the 10th July 2024, to seek further independent feedback, prior to formal sign off by the Commissioner.
I confirm that my register of interests declaration is up to date and that none of my interests preclude me from making this decision.
Signature: P.Seccombe
Date: 07/08/2024
Supporting information
1. Background information
The ‘Risk Management Policy’ of the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) for Warwickshire was last approved in August 2021. The previous commitment was to review the policy annually, but the review has been purposely delayed pending a more comprehensive and fundamental review of risk management processes at the OPCC. OPCC risk management processes have been reviewed and they are now better developed and understood. The policy has been updated to reflect current practise and this decision notice seeks approval of the revised document.
The policy will be refreshed on a bi-annual basis in the future, to ensure that it remains fit for purpose to mitigate and manage OPCC risks.
The review of the policy has been necessary to ensure that it:
- reflects Warwickshire PCC’s needs and approach to risk management (including process and procedure),
- complies with best practise and appropriate legislation,
- pays due regard to the approach taken by the force but recognises the differences and risk appetite of the separate entities.
- provides for the appropriate governance arrangements for risk management, so that the risk register accurately reflects the risks for Warwickshire PCC, provides a suitable risk management framework, clearly identifies risk management objectives and benefits and also outlines the roles and responsibilities for dealing with risk at the OPCC.
The main changes to the risk management policy include updates and proper reflection of current practise to include the now combined risk register, and the regular and now embedded process for reviewing risks on a regular basis across the OPCC.
JASC have a key responsibility, outlined in their terms of reference covering governance, risk and control, whereby the JASC are required to monitor the effective development and operation of risk management, review the risk profile, and monitor progress of the PCC/Chief Constable in addressing risk-related issues reported to them. JASC receive an OPCC risk management report at least twice a year, and also consider any revisions to the risk management policy in line with the review timetable. JASC have the opportunity to provide feedback, prior to the policy being adopted, and approved by the PCC.
2. List of additional information attached as appendices
Risk Management Policy 2024-2026.
3. Expected benefits
A relevant and up to date risk management policy provides the framework to ensure that there are good governance arrangements in place for dealing with risk. It will also help to ensure that appropriate actions and mitigations can be put in place to reduce risk where possible.
4. Impact of not approving the application
The current policy is outdated and does not reflect current good practise in managing OPCC risks.
5. Costs (including any identified savings)
There are no direct costs as a result of this policy, but by managing risk effectively this could result in a reduction in costs, or cost avoidance by the OPCC.
6. Equality considerations
There are none directly arising from this policy, and the policy applies to all OPCC risks.
7. Legal comments
The PCC’s risk management policy will help to ensure that the risks associated with the legal and statutory functions of the PCC can be managed effectively and that good governance arrangements are in place.
8. Social or Environmental considerations
All relevant policies apply
9. Publication
Information in this form is subject to the Freedom of Information Act 2000 (FOI Act) and other legislation. Unless the information provided is covered by an exemption and stated to be either confidential or partly confidential, the information contained in the form will be published on the OPCC website.
Comments from the Treasurer
Managing risk effectively is essential in promoting good governance. Whilst there are no direct financial implications as a result of this strategy, not having the correct governance arrangements in place for managing risk could result in significant financial and non-financial implications for the PCC. This policy and effective risk management helps to reduce the likelihood of this occurring.
Comments from the Chief Executive and Monitoring Officer
A relevant and comprehensive risk management policy will provide the OPCC with a framework to ensure that good governance arrangements are in place for dealing with risk. It will also help to ensure that appropriate actions and mitigations can be put in place to reduce identified risks where possible.
