Dr Eleanor Roy, CIPFA Health and Social Care Policy Manager, said:
"The decision to delay the deadline for audited accounts in response to the COVID-19 outbreak, together with the temporary finance regime announced last week is extremely welcome.
"The revised year-end arrangements and the decision to delay IFRS 16 implementation until 2021/22 will give NHS finance teams the flexibility they need to focus on supporting the frontline response to the current crisis.
"This will allow them to ensure that access to money is not obstructing or delaying the response to the outbreak, maintaining essential functions to support the front line, such as payroll and procurement.
"CIPFA extends its sincerest thanks to the thousands of staff behind the scenes in the health sector, supporting the frontline and keeping the wheels turning in this time of crisis."
ENDS
For further information please contact the CIPFA press office on T: 020 7543 5647 or E: allison.kroll@cipfa.org
Notes to Editor:
About CIPFA
CIPFA, the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy, is the professional body for people in public finance. CIPFA shows the way in public finance globally, standing up for sound public financial management and good governance around the world as the leading commentator on managing and accounting for public money.