The role of Internal Audit
The Institute of Internal Auditors defines internal auditing as follows:
'Internal auditing is an independent, objective assurance and consulting activity designed to add value and improve an organisation's operations. It helps an organisation accomplish its objectives by bringing a systematic, disciplined approach to evaluate and improve the effectiveness of risk management, control and governance processes.'
London Borough of Merton Internal Audit Services therefore exist to satisfy legislative requirements but also to add value to the organisation, to concentrate on the key risks, to evaluate and assess the internal control system and to contribute to the proper, economic, efficient and effective use of resources.
Where things are considered wrong, this is nearly always a judgement on the system rather than a criticism of the individual running the system. If necessary, auditors will recommend improvements which should be made to the controls guarding against important risks
Who are we?
The standards which the Internal Audit Section regards as its own are those laid down by the professional accounting bodies and, in particular:
- The Public Sector Internal Audit Standards (2013)
- Chartered Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) International Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing
Internal Audit is a team of individuals that are committed to professional standards who report to the Assistant Director Corporate Governance. The role of Internal Audit is fully documented within the Council's Financial Regulations, which form part of the Council's Constitution. Our work is governed by the Public Sector Internal Audit standards. This standard, published in 2013, sets out a framework for Internal Audit that includes identifying the key objectives, status and processes of Internal Audit.
Head of Internal Audit
Margaret Culleton
margaret.culleton@merton.gov.uk
0208 545 3149
School Audit Contact
Muhsinah Rahman -Principal Auditor
muhsinah.rahman@Merton.gov.uk
020 8545 3494