Financial Statements 2016 | Page 31

Registered providers shall: “Understand the costs and outcomes of delivering specific services and which underlying factors influence these costs and how they do so.” How Accord Group delivers against these requirements n Benchmarking information is used to report year on year trend analysis for a number of corporate and service level performance measures. The outputs are used for targeted future performance improvements n A zero-based budgeting approach is adopted to ensure that only necessary costs are included in the budget. The budget is informed by the Board-approved business plan objectives. n Monthly budgetary and financial reporting allows budget-holders and senior management to ensure financial performance is in line with agreed expectations. n The Group carry out close and continuous monitoring of the impact of the roll-out of Welfare Reforms and Universal Credit. Accord Group’s established services such as money advice and jobs and skills support helps to address the increasing financial difficulty experienced by customers to ensure rent is paid. n Board and senior management have well-established, effective and strong relationships with local authorities, commissioners and regulatory bodies. This helps the Group better understand the requirements of the market and shape services to meet emerging needs. n Performance and delivery in the context of the Group’s purpose and objectives is captured through its adherence with the ethos and principles of the Social Value Act. Financial Statements 2016 29