ensuring a college that is fit for purpose


organisational robustness


Controlling income and expenditure The College has robust financial management systems and an effective system of internal control over the use of its financial resources. The College’s Audit Committee, which ensures that adequate financial controls are in place and that the College operates within a sound financial framework, is chaired by a Lay Trustee who is a senior finance professional. Management accounts were presented quarterly to the Board, which reviewed the College investment policy in October. A successful audit was completed in December and the projected outturn for the year exceeded projections. The Finance team continued to support managers of the European Academy and World Council of Optometry and managers of restricted fund operations (Research, DOCET, the


Benevolent Fund and the Department of Health Fund for the Scheme for Registration). An annual risk statement was reviewed and approved by the Board.


The College office and IT network Servers and hardware were maintained and upgraded. The renewal of desktop PCs on a four-year cycle was completed. A new website was launched and maintained. CPD Online was launched. New software for the Library was implemented, including an online catalogue. The web-based assessment management tool was upgraded and a new programme introduced to analyse OSCE data developed. Skype was introduced, new AV equipment was installed and a new tele-conferencing facility introduced.


Supporting governance Lawyers obtained an Order from the Privy Council to remove two Bye-laws which restricted the age of Council members and Trustees. Appraisals of Officers and Committee Chairmen were carried out by the Chairman of the Board. Council elections resulted in regional ballots with 16 out of 18 vacancies filled. The Lay Advisory Panel appointed three new members with impressive CVs from the world of academia and business.


Human Resources Staff data protection training was completed and ongoing data agreements with third parties developed as required. A review of the staff pension scheme was completed. New posts were created for CPD and Policy and Strategy and the administrative support structure was strengthened.


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