Core Audit Team

Audits need to be managed by staff of sufficient seniority to carry authority and credibility within and outside their own agencies. Many partnerships have established permanent audit sub-groups. The team may wish to bring in particular expertise at different stages of the audit process e.g. analysts, PR experts etc. but the core team should comprise:

• Community safety co-ordinator and officers (two-tier authorities should have representation from both district and council)

• Police representation (preferably senior data analyst)

• Consultant (if used for a substantial part of the audit)

• Local authority representatives with knowledge of data provisions

• Any other relevant body or person

• A specified person (possibly one of above) responsible for consultation

It may not always be possible to assemble all of the following skills but the team should endeavour to include:

• A knowledge of crime reduction / community safety issues within the wider area (i.e. county or region).

• Skills and experience in data collection and analysis (in-house or through contractors).

• Project management skills to oversee a complex, multi-agency task.

• The ability to communicate effectively and authoritatively with senior representatives of the agencies.

• Knowledge of policy analysis and strategic development.

• Awareness of other key plans required to inform both audit and strategy e.g. Drug Action Plan, Youth Justice Plan, Policing Plan.

• An ability to communicate (orally and in writing) with key stakeholders and the public in a clear, concise manner.

Back to The Audit Process