South West London CCG Annual Report and Accounts 2020/21

Other sources of assurance Internal Control Framework A system of internal control is the set of processes and procedures in place in the Clinical Commissioning Group to ensure it delivers its policies, aims and objectives. It is designed to identify and prioritise the risks, to evaluate the likelihood of those risks being realised and the impact should they be realised, and to manage them efficiently, effectively and economically. The system of internal control allows risk to be managed to a reasonable level rather than eliminating all risk; it can therefore only provide reasonable and not absolute assurance of effectiveness. Our governance structures are used to ensure effective oversight of operational and strategic decisions and compliance with the NHS regulatory environment. Details of the Governing Body responsibilities and those of its committees are outlined above and described in further detail within the constitution. Ensuring effective risk management, financial management and compliance with statutory duties is high on the list of our priorities. We have implemented policies, systems and processes to reduce exposure in these areas and to ensure that we are legally compliant. Each committee and group oversees risks and policies relating to their area of responsibility. Clinicians and management work in partnership through the commissioning cycle, adding value and delivering outcomes, to ensure the procurement of quality services that are tailored to local needs and deliver sustainable outcomes and value for money. The CCG has established an effective organisational structure with clear lines of authority and accountability, which guards against inappropriate decision making and delegation of authorities enabling us to meet our statutory duties and follow best practice guidelines. Work to ensure that we promote and demonstrate the principles and values of good governance and the review of governance related risks takes place at Senior Management Team meetings and assurance is provided by the Audit Committee to the Governing Body with insight from Internal Audit. The Committee also ensures that, in non-financial and non-clinical areas that fall within the remit of its terms of reference, appropriate standards are set and compliance with them is monitored. We have considered the effectiveness of our governance framework and processes and raised no significant concerns on governance related matters this year. The system of internal control is based on an ongoing process designed to identify and prioritise the risks to the achievement of the policies, aims and objectives of the CCG, to evaluate the likelihood of those risks being realised and the impact should they be realised, and to manage them efficiently, effectively and economically. The system of internal control has been in place in the CCG for the year ended 31 142 | NHS South West London Clinical Commissioning Group