PSIAS External Assessment

The Public Sector Internal Audit Standards were introduced in April 2013. Their aim was to promote robust governance and audit within public bodies and to give assurance to stakeholders that the internal audit is performing effectively and it should form part of your annual report.

The recommendation is for public sector bodies to review their audit procedures at least once every five years. Organisations can schedule a full external assessment, or they can self-assess, but it is recommended that you get independent validation.

Why CIPFA?

CIPFA is recognised as the leading expert on managing and accounting for public money, as well as being the standard-setters for public sector internal audit in UK local government. CIPFA is ideally placed to assess organisations against the standards and ensure a robust and critical review that will provide assurance to your stakeholders that you are providing an effective internal audit service.

Full external review

Our experts can undertake a full independent assessment of your organisation that incorporates:

  • document and audit file reviews
  • on-site interviews with key personnel
  • a detailed output report discussing the findings
  • detailed recommendations for areas of non-compliance
  • further guidance from our expert advisors for continued improvement
  • on-site meeting with your senior officers and committees to present and discus the report
  • CIPFA confirmation of compliance with PSIAS.

Peer to peer reviews

If your organisation is planning to work with other internal audit practitioners to undertake a review, it is recommended that you seek independent validation to ensure that you measure up to the standard. CIPFA also recommends that you use the Local Government Application Note checklist.

Validation includes:

  • documentation and audit file reviews
  • on-site interviews with key personnel
  • a detailed output report discussing the findings
  • CIPFA confirmation of compliance with PSIAS.

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