Local Government Assurance Services, Veritau

Experts in local government assurance

Veritau was formed in 2009, originally as a partnership between two local authorities. Today we are controlled by a number of partner councils. Local government service delivery has never been more challenging. Demand is constantly increasing but resources are limited. Our range of local government assurance services help you to balance risks and manage your organisation effectively.

Internal audit

Internal audit is about assessment of risks, reviewing controls, and identifying areas for improvement. Many of our auditors began their careers within local government, before Veritau was formed.

Our team has a wide range of experience delivering audits in many different service areas. We take an independent view of your key processes, and provide advice and support to deliver improvements. As well as large authorities, we also work with several town and parish councils.

Counter fraud

Fraud prevention goes hand-in-hand with internal audit, focusing on risks holistically. Protecting the public purse is essential, particularly at a time when resources are under increased pressure.

Our counter fraud team are specialists in investigating fraud affecting councils. This includes:

• Internal fraud and whistleblowing
• Adult social care fraud
• Council tax fraud
• Housing fraud
• Third-party fraud
• Parking and blue badge fraud
• Business rates fraud
• Schools admission fraud
• Financial assistance schemes fraud

Information governance and DPO service

Managing information well is essential to supporting service delivery. We support local authorities to protect personal data, implement effective governance frameworks, and manage information successfully.

Veritau acts as the data protection officer (DPO) for a large and growing number of public sector clients, including a number of local authorities. Our information governance services can help you with information access (eg FOI and SARs), data protection, governance frameworks and information risk management.

Risk management

Do you understand the level of risk you are willing to tolerate to achieve your strategic objectives? Our qualified risk management professionals bring a wide range of experience in managing risk in a local government context.

From HR to housing, we can work with you to make risk-intelligent decisions, reduce risk exposure and achieve your objectives.

Whistleblowing service

Whistleblowing can affect any organisation. Staff who raise concerns are protected by law, and it’s essential that employers know how to comply with the legislation.

Concerns should be taken seriously, and public sector organisations should be aware of how to navigate a whistleblowing concern. Our team of experts have experience handling a range of complex and sensitive issues, and can support you to get it right.