Budgeting

13 Budget Format

13.1 Overview

The budget format is determined by the level at which officers need to control and manage budgets.  It may also be influenced by external requirement such as accounting codes and government returns, and Consistent Financial Reporting for School’s (CFR).  The format and presentation of budget and related monitoring information should clearly show how resources have been used in line with corporate objectives and service improvement priorities.  Achievement of efficiencies also needs to be disclosed.

13.2 Responsibility/Accountability

13.2.1 Council (click here for all responsibilities for the Council)

Approving the format of the corporate budget.

13.2.2 Cabinet (click here for all responsibilities for the Cabinet)

Recommending the format of the corporate budget to the Council.

Determining their own requirements in regard to Cabinet Portfolios.

13.2.3 Scrutiny & Review Panels (click here for all responsibilities for Scrutiny & Review panels)

Determining their own requiremets and advising the Cabinet.

13.2.4 Directors and Business Unit Heads (click here for all Directors) (click here for all responsibilities for Business Unit Heads)

Determining their own requirements in consultation with Section 151 Officer.

13.2.5 Section 151 Officer (click here for all responsibilities for the Section 151 Officer)

Recommending the formats in consultation with users.

Ensuring consistency of approach.

Ensuring the inclusion of a statement dealing with the robustness of the budget estimates.

13.3 Policy (click here for the detailed procedures)

The budget format will comply with all legal requirements and relevant accounting codes of practice.  The format should also reflect the relevant level of accountability of service delivery and enable consistency of comparison between services and years.