From 2011-12, all NHs organisations are to include a section in their Annual Report covering their performance on sustainability during the year. This guidance is applicable to all organisations, including NHS organisations, that
produce Annual Reports and Accounts in accordance with the FReM. HM Treaury have produced a useful document that explains the requirements and provides template examples. See the document below or visit HM Treasury website. The SDU has also provided guidance and a template on their website.
This document from the SDU details how you and your finance teams can deliver better
value for money by making sustainability part and parcel of the
financial process. The paper is aimed at anyone with financial control in the NHS and is
designed to help NHS finance experts understand the health, cost,
governance and reputational benefits associated with reporting on
sustainability issues. Visit the SU website to download.
The NHS SDU has put together this briefing paper outlining some important information about EU funding types and processes. Accessing the many different types of EU funding is a complex process that requires a high level of expertise and commitment. This paper is designed to provide you with an overview of where to go for more information. It is important that you use the channels listed below as the EU funding picture is constantly evolving.
The Department of Health has recognised
that the NHS has an important role in both reducing its own carbon footprint
and setting this example. The clear message is that NHS organisations cannot
afford to delay and need to take action now. What is less clear is the role
that finance managers have within this overall strategy to reduce carbon. This
briefing sets out to investigate the specific drivers forcing finance to take a
direct interest in carbon reduction and play a leading role
in the overall achievement of the carbon reduction targets.
Key actions and additional information specific to the governance issues of carbon reduction. Produced by the NHS Sustainable Development Unit for use by Trust boards and across organisations.
Carbon accounting is the accounting undertaken to measure the amount of carbon dioxide equivalents that will not be released into the atmosphere as a result of Flexible Mechanisms projects under the Kyoto Treaty. As carbon reduction and the cost of carbon emissions becomes more integrated into all organisational systems, carbon accounting will play a vital role in purchasing, commissioning, service delivery and estates development.
For every 1% reduction in energy consumption, at 2008 prices, it is estimated the NHS could save about £4 million every year. This means that many investments in adequate energy management are likely to be cost effective. Therefore, NHS organisations should take advantage of schemes which support investment in energy efficiency initiatives. For example, NHS Foundation Trusts can double any financial commitment made to energy efficiency by setting up a fund under Salix Finance.
