The problem
The Annual Governance and Accountability Return (AGAR) is a crucial document for councils in England and Wales. It ensures transparency and accountability in local governance. However, many clerks find it challenging to gather the necessary evidence to support their AGAR submissions. This can lead to confusion and potential issues during audits.
How it works
AGAR evidence consists of various records that demonstrate a council's financial and governance practices. Key components include:
- Financial records: These include payment schedules, ledgers, and minutes from meetings where financial decisions were made. Each record must clearly show the approval of payments and any relevant discussions.
- Governance assertions: Councils must provide evidence for each assertion made in the AGAR. This includes demonstrating that the council has maintained proper accounting records and has complied with relevant legislation.
- Publication duties: Councils are required to publish certain documents, such as agendas and minutes, to ensure public access to information. This transparency is essential for building trust within the community.
Clerkly records these elements systematically, ensuring that all necessary evidence is available for the AGAR process. Each record cites its legal source, providing clarity and traceability.
Getting started
To begin with AGAR evidence collection, councils should first ensure they have a clear understanding of the requirements set out in the relevant legislation. This includes familiarising themselves with the AGAR template and the specific assertions that need to be supported by evidence.
Clerks can then use Clerkly to manage the process. By creating an account, they can easily manage meeting records, financial documentation, and publication duties in one place. This not only simplifies the evidence collection process but also ensures that all records meet statutory requirements.
For more information on how Clerkly can assist with AGAR evidence management, visit Create an account.
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