OUC have been engaged in providing expert reviewer services of ‘Value for Money’ Reports for the National Audit Office (NAO) for over 5 years.  The NAO scrutinises public spending on behalf of Parliament and saves the taxpayer millions of pounds, estimated at £9 for every £1 spent running the Office.

OUC works with an editorial board to identify Oxford researchers across the University’s Divisions with the expertise to comment on a wide variety of subjects.  Oxford academics have reviewed over 200 ‘Value for Money’ (VfM) reports since the contract began.

Susan Clark, OUC Project Manager says “Oxford academics really enjoy this type of discrete consultancy and find it very interesting.  The NAO, through OUC, has access to a wide range of objective and independent expertise drawn from academics across the University”.  OUC adds real value through project managing the review process, liaising with reviewers, the editorial board and the NAO, and by providing administrative support.

The NAO have commented, “…OUC has impressed us with its efficiency and high professional standards. We value the access to a wide range of expertise.”