Insights

Fraud is a hot topic right now for higher education institutions. Not only do students often find themselves as soft targets for fraud (ie 'money mules' or in relation to Authorised Push Payment/ APP fraud), but the institution itself now has its own responsibilities to reduce the likelihood of a fraud event taking place. 

If you are an HE organisation considering your status under the PA 2023 or wanting to understand the implications, here are some issues to consider.

The OfS regulatory case report and record fine issued to the University of Sussex for breaches of management and governance conditions of registration E1 and E2 has brought University decision-making and compliance with governing documents into the spotlight - in the wider context of freedom of speech and academic freedom obligations.

The UK Higher Education sector is facing a financial crisis. Real-term declines in tuition income, volatile international student enrolment and increasing operational costs are placing HE providers under acute pressure. In response, collaboration between HE providers is being explored as a means to maintain viability.

Media headlines have dramatised the recent statutory government guidance, which allows local authorities flexibility to use capital receipts from qualifying asset sales to fund revenue costs. It has been confirmed that this could include funds generated by local authorities in disposing of school playing fields. 

Holidays are supposed to be all about fun and relaxation. Sadly, sometimes things go wrong, and accidents or illnesses can turn your dream getaway into a nightmare.