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  Dear Colleague,
Season's greetings! Welcome to the December edition of the CIPFA e-newsletter. If you have comments or suggestions, please contact Mia Spencer at mia.spencer@cipfa.org.

In this month's issue:

 
   

 
HEADLINE NEWS

Are You Prepared for International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS)?

A major change in public sector accounting was announced in the 2007 Budget so that annual accounts of central government departments and related public bodies will be produced using IFRS from the 2008/09 financial year. This means that 2007/08 accounting information will need to be re-stated for comparative purposes. The transition to IFRS for local authorities will follow in subsequent years.

To prepare the way for these major changes, CIPFA and PricewaterhouseCoopers have developed a suite of training workshops that are being delivered throughout the UK.

  • Managing the Transition - This is a one-day workshop that discusses the adoption of IFRS, which will be implemented through the IFRS-based FReM, and identifies the key standards impacting the public sector.

  • A Step by Step Guide - This is a two-day workshop that provides a practical guide to the essential steps to be taken to ensure successful implementation of IFRS requirements.

 
POLICY & TECHNICAL
 

Review of the Prudential Code

The CIPFA Prudential Code for Capital Finance in Local Authorities was introduced in 2004.

A discussion paper has been produced setting out some commentary on the experience of the first years of the Prudential Code and asking a number of questions about the application of the Code in practice. The closing date for responses to the consultation is 31 March 2008.

The discussion paper can be downloaded at:
www.cipfa.org.uk/panels/treasury_management

Children’s Services Panel response to DCFS proposals

The Panel is working on a revised Introductory Guide to Education Finance and preparing a further response to the DCSF proposals on the school funding arrangements. Responses are available from the panel website at:

 www.cipfa.org.uk/panels/childrens_services

 
STUDENTS

Student Learning Centre

New CETC DirectorsWe now have a dedicated area on the CIPFA website, providing information and latest news on the Student Learning Centre.

These pages will be updated regularly. Forthcoming news will include feedback from the two recent workshops as well as a demo model, to give you a flavour of what to expect.

Please use the Contacts link to feedback any comments you have on the Student Learning Centre, or, if you are a registered student, go to the Discussion Forum and join the conversation there.

CETC Course Dates Released

CETC has released the dates for courses leading to June 2008 exams. The CETC Course Dates & Fees June 2008 brochure lists all the dates for courses at the five locations – South East (London), Midlands (Birmingham), West of England (Bristol), East Scotland (Edinburgh), and Wales (Cardiff).

In addition to main day release courses, the brochure also lists revision course dates, mock exam dates and information on CETC’s additional services including course materials, progress tests, and tutorials.

To download the brochure visit www.cetc.org.uk/courses/Course_dates.cfm or contact CETC on 020 7403 4300/enquiries@cetc.org.uk.

 
SCOTLAND

Scottish 'On Board' Training
29th Jan 2008, Edinburgh

The 'On Board' training course has been designed to support the 'On Board' Guide for Board Members of Public Bodies. The Guide was first published by the Scottish Executive in 2003 and a revised and updated edition has been published very recently.

To read the 'On Board' Guide for Board Members of Public Bodies visit www.cipfa.org.uk/scotland.

Inquiry into Capital Financing

CIPFA has responded to the Scottish Parliament's Finance Committee which called for evidence into the financing of capital schemes. CIPFA has drawn attention to the Prudential Code and to the possible impact from the implementation of International Financial Reporting Standards.

Visit www.cipfa.org.uk/scotland to view the response.

 
CIPFA in NORTHERN IRELAND

Harry Hatry Masterclass
31 January 2008, The Mount Conference Centre, Belfast

CIPFA Northern Ireland is delighted to welcome Harry Hatry, the world’s leading expert in managing and measuring performance. Harry’s work has significantly influenced the performance management frameworks adopted by government and not-for-profit organisations all over the world.

PRINCE2 Accredited Training Programme
21 January - 25 January 2008

This very popular project management programme equips delegates with a detailed knowledge of the PRINCE2 method, working through each stage of pre-project preparation and the project lifecycle. The programme will detail how to initiate projects, including the documentation to be produced.  It also focuses on product delivery and controlling each stage of the project, from the perspective of the Project Manager and the Project Board, as well as addressing the issues surrounding project completion.

AAT Accounting Qualification - Foundation Level
January 2008

The AAT Accounting Qualification focuses on the practical skills and knowledge needed to fulfil an accounting technician role. The content is regularly reviewed to ensure it is up-to-date with current work practice.

CIPFA Investigative Practice Qualification
January 2008 - June 2008

This qualification will provide all investigators with the essential legal knowledge and skills to carry out an investigation professionally and secure admissible evidence. During the courses, delegates will look at the legislation, procedures and rules of evidence that impact on everyday work. They will learn and apply best practice standards in collecting and recording evidence, writing statements and giving evidence in the witness box.

For further information, and to book any of these events visit www.cipfa.org.uk/ni or contact Emily Kennedy 028 9026 6774/emily.kennedy@cipfa.org

Public Training Courses

Roles, Responsibilities and Ethics of Investigations (CIPQ) 9 January, Belfast
PRINCE2 Accredited Training – Foundation Level  21 – 23 January, Belfast
PRINCE2 Accredited Training - Practitioner Level  24 & 25 January, Belfast
Law Evidence, Procedures and Best Practice (CIPQ)  29 & 30 January, Belfast
Accruals Accounting 29 & 30 January, Belfast
Accounting Standards In-Depth for the Public Sector 30 & 31 January, Belfast

 
PUBLIC MANAGEMENT AND POLICY ASSOCIATION NEWS

PMPA Free Evening Lecture:“Beyond liberty” - with Nick Clegg MP, Leader, Liberal Democrats
Monday 28 January 2008, 5.45pm, 3 Robert St, London

Speaker: Nick Clegg MP. Chair: Julia Margo, Institute of Public Policy Research (ippr). Nick Clegg MP contributed to the recent ippr publication, Beyond Liberty, and will be speaking on the subject of ‘progressive liberalism and modern justice’. This lecture forms part of the PMPA’s “Modern Democracy” Lecture Series.

Bi-Annual Sunningdale Accountability Lecture, “The Act of Union 1707—the next 300 years.”
Tuesday 29 January 2008, 6.15pm, RSA, 8 John Adam Street, London WC2

Speaker: Professor Robert Hazell, Director of the Constitution Unit, University College London. PMPA and CIPFA members are invited to attend this prestigious lecture, chaired by Sir John Bourn, the Comptroller & Auditor General and held at the Royal Society of Arts, London.

To book your place at either of these events please email info.pmpa@cipfa.org or contact Sandra Harper on 020 7543 5679.

 
IMPROVEMENT NETWORK NEWS

Healthy Competition

Access guidance and case studies on competition and contestability via the Improvement Network, which draws on findings from the Audit Commission's national study www.improvementnetwork.gov.uk.


OTHER NEWS

Cliff Nicholson Award 2008

For Innovation and Excellence in Public Sector Audit.

One of CIPFA’s primary awards, the Cliff Nicholson Award recognises innovation and excellence in public sector audit. The award provides an excellent opportunity for audit to demonstrate the valuable contribution it can make, of particular significance given the current focus on better governance and better use of resources. Entries will be judged by past CIPFA president, Cliff Nicholson, with the help of the Audit Panel.

Find out more and submit an entry at www.cipfa.org.uk/pt/award.cfm

The Diploma in Public Audit

CIPFA and Liverpool John Moores University are running a two part Diploma in Public Audit (DPA). Primarily for those involved in internal audit of the public sector, the CIPFA DPA is directly relevant to those new to auditing as well as more experienced auditors looking to formalise their knowledge.

Liverpool John Moores University is now planning to run another course starting on Friday, 29th February 2008.

To find out more and to book visit www.cipfa.org.uk/students/prospective/dpa.cfm



CIPFA COMMERCIAL SERVICES

CIPFA Performance Improvement Network - 2nd Annual seminar: Managing with less – shaping up for innovation and improved performance

28th February 2008, London
The CIPFA Performance Improvement Network’s second annual seminar will look at how the public sector can manage the innovation and re-design that will be necessary to deliver ‘more with less’ in the future.
Public sector managers face a number of major policy challenges, including Local Area Agreements, joined-up service delivery, rising customer demand and the new Comprehensive Area Assessment framework. This event will cover a range of innovative and new approaches to service delivery that organisations are using to meet these challenges and improve services, despite resources being scarce in the post-CSR07 climate. A range of excellent speakers will offer practical advice based on their own experiences in addressing these key challenges.

Visit hwww.cipfanetworks.net/pin/events for further information and a booking form.

'Figure It Out' - Statistical Research Bulletin: Issue 10

The Chancellor has had a few other things on his plate since announcing the Comprehensive Spending Review but local authorities are still assessing the impact. The latest ‘Figure It Out’ bulletin discusses the predicted ‘tough times’ ahead with Finance Advisory Network Adviser Roman Haluszczak. The CSR also carried with it a fresh set of efficiency targets; Peter Eckersley of the Performance Improvement Network asks how authorities might deliver.

Other topics on the ‘Figure It Out’ agenda include shared services, measuring electoral registrations and focussing on value for money. This latest bulletin also includes the results of the 10th Local Government Monitor Survey.

Anti Money Laundering – 1 day workshops – 5th February Leeds, 12 February London

The Financial Services Authority maintains that the current total of laundered money in the UK is £25 billion. New Money Laundering Regulations 2007 are in force from 15th December 2007, revoking the 2003 regulations.

This event will help staff to know their roles, responsibilities, culpability and how to help prevent money laundering. To book, visit www.cipfanetworks.net/governance. Contact Greg Marks (07811 332257/greg.marks@ipf.co.uk) or Charlotte Mean (020 8667 8176/charlotte.mean@ipf.co.uk) with any queries.

Great Scotland Performance at Wembley

A good result at Wembley! The 2007 CIPFA Better Governance Forum conference was held 18th October in the Royal Suite. Over 150 delegates heard a tremendous speech from Baroness Scotland, the Attorney General about countering fraud and in particular the high profile, extraordinary level of commitment, funding and joint working. The invaluable and entertaining Chairman of the day was Derek Elliott, Head of the Audit Commission Good Conduct and Counter Fraud Network.

The Conference reflected the wide breadth of the Better Governance Forum, spanning overall governance issues including ethical standards, risk management, information governance, counter fraud and audit. It was a great conference with wonderful speakers, feedback has ranged from excellent to terrific! Photographs are at http://www.cipfanetworks.net/governance`

Local Area Agreements/Multiple Area Agreements and Comprehensive Area Assessment - What Impact Will This Have on Social Housing Services?

A unique series of certificated events for social housing managers and their staff which will demystify the new approach Government intends to take to funding local services, inspecting local services and setting new targets and priorities for those services. This series is relevant to housing professionals across both Landlord and Non-Landlord based services and is targeted for those working in Local Authorities, RSL's or ALMO's.

5 Feb, Manchester - 6 Feb, York -8 Feb, London - 14 Feb, Birmingham

For a full programme and a booking form visit www.cipfanetworks.net/housing/ or contact the Lead Housing Advisor, Dr Louise Dunne 0208 302 3462/Louise.Dunne@ipf.co.uk


CIPFA SHOP

NEW COURSES & CONFERENCES

 

 

International Financial Reporting Standards - Managing the Transition - next: 15 Jan 08, Manchester more

An Introduction to Treasury Management in Local Government - 24 January 2008, London more

Harry Hatry Masterclass - 31 January 2008, Belfast more


NEW PUBLICATIONS

Best Value Accounting Code of Practice 2007 (2007) (England & Wales loose-leaf update pack) more

Code of Practice on Local Authority Accounting in the United Kingdom: A Statement of Recommended Practice - Guidance Notes for Practitioners - 2007/2008 Accounts (2007) (Hard Copy) more

Code of Practice on Local Authority Accounting in the United Kingdom: A Statement of Recommended Practice - Guidance Notes for Practitioners - 2007/2008 Accounts (2007) (CD-ROM) more

Code of Practice on Local Authority Accounting in the United Kingdom: A Statement of Recommended Practice - Guidance Notes for Practitioners - 2007/2008 Accounts (2007) (Special Offer - Hard Copy and CD-ROM) more

Capital Success: Good Practice in the Implementation of the Prudential Code (2007) (CD-ROM) more

Capital Success: Good Practice in the Implementation of the Prudential Code (2007) (Book) more

An Introductory Guide to Education Finance in England (Fully Revised Third Edition 2008) (2008) (Book) (Available 10 January 2008) more

An Introductory Guide to Education Finance in England (Fully Revised Third Edition 2008) (2008) (CD-ROM) (Available 10 January 2008) more

Coming soon – the CIPFA 2008 Courses Calendar and the 2008 Publications Catalogue will be available early in the New Year at: www.cipfa.org.uk/shop


Training and Conference Rooms

The CIPFA group has a number of training and conference rooms which are available for hire:

CIPFA, Robert Street (London, WC2N) www.cipfa.org.uk/conference_ centre

CIPFA in Scotland (Edinburgh, EH5) cipfa.scotland@cipfa.org.

CIPFA Northern Ireland (Belfast, BT1) kathryn.sloan@cipfa.org

CETC, Borough High Street (London, SE1) marilyn.clarke@cetc.org.uk

CETC, 154 Great Charles Street, (Birmingham, B3) marilyn.clarke@cetc.org.uk

Queen Anne's Gate (London, SW1H) www.qagconferences.co.uk

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