Dennington Parish Council has formally approved its 2025-2026 accounts, confirming another year of sound financial management, strong governance, and full compliance with statutory requirements.

A thorough internal audit of the council’s practices, procedures, and financial controls was completed in April by Trevor Brown CPFA. The audit was positive, highlighting the council’s high standards across all areas of governance and administration.

The auditor confirmed that the council “maintained effective governance arrangements including a robust framework of internal control and risk management” and praised the Clerk/RFO for administering the council’s finances to a high standard, noting that she “satisfactorily undertook the administration of the Council’s financial affairs and produced appropriate financial management information to enable the Council to make well‑informed decisions.”

The report also commended the clarity of the council’s records, stating that the Minutes “provide clear evidence of the decisions taken by the Council”, and confirmed that the cashbook, bank reconciliations, and supporting documentation were all in excellent order.

Overall, the auditor concluded that Dennington Parish Council continues to maintain “an effective framework of financial administration and internal financial control.”

As the council’s income and expenditure for the year were both below £25,000, Dennington Parish Council is again eligible to certify itself exempt from a limited assurance external audit. Councillors have agreed to submit a Certificate of Exemption for 2025–2026, in line with national regulations for smaller authorities.

Residents are invited to inspect the council’s accounts and supporting documents during the statutory Public Rights Period, which will run from Wednesday 3rd June to Tuesday 14th July 2026. 

During this period:

• Members of the public may view the council’s financial records

• Residents may ask questions or raise queries with the external auditor

• Documents will be available by appointment with the Clerk

This annual process ensures transparency and allows residents to see how public money is managed on their behalf.