18 External Funding

18.1 Overview

Attracting external resources is a valuable and important method of providing services.  Working in co-operation with the private sector in partnership to optimise funding is one way of maximising the Council’s resource base and would include Business Improvement Districts (BIDS).  Care must also be exercised and a robust risk analysis and exit strategy identified before committing the Council. 

18.2 Responsibility/Accountability

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

Approving through the Revenue and Capital budget processes, the making of bids for external funding.

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

Sign all bids, subject to receipt of robust business case

18.2.3 Business Unit Heads (click here for all responsibilities for Business Unit Heads)

Prepare comprehensive business cases for external funding bids.  In the case of school’s the Governing Body is responsible for this not a Business Unit Head.

Ensure the Section 151 Officer signs all bids.

Ensuring comprehensive business cases are produced, risks and exit strategies are identified, and any internal budget provisions are available including match funding, for external funding bids.

18.3 Policy (click here for detailed procedures)

The Council will actively pursue external funding subject to a robust business case including a risk analysis, exit strategy and financial assessment.  See also Grants and Bids.  The minimum contents of a business case are in Part IV.