Workshop: Reviewing and Implementing Policies

1. Workshop: Reviewing and Implementing Policies Cat Forsyth, Team leader Learning Disability Team, Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust

2. Critiquing Policies Checklist • What are your general impressions of the policy? • Is it well presented, easily read and understood, jargon-free? • Are there any guidance notes to accompany the policy? • Is it non-discriminatory? Has it been equality proofed? • Does the new policy replace an existing policy? • Does it ‘reinvent the wheel’? • What was lacking in the last policy? (if appropriate) • Who has written / designed the policy? • What is the evidence given for the policy and is it valid in your opinion? • Is the policy based upon current legislation and/or good practice? • How the policy affect pupils / children /service users?

3. How the policy affect staff / services • How many will be affected? • Will it mean changes in work practices? • Will the effect be a measurable improvement? • Is recording and accountability clear in the policy? • Is the policy realistic and able to be delivered? • How does the policy compare with any model policy or advice or information in publications? • Does the policy need to be read in conjunction with other policies? • Record or highlight parts of the policy that you can accept • Record parts of the policy that you might accept after some alteration or re-wording •  What further assurances do you need before acceptance (e.g. safeguards for staff)

4. Note any parts of the policy which would require explanation e.g. to governors. • Decide on your LIM (Like Intend, and Must) and what are you prepared to concede? • Create a summary plan with your objectives(LIM) • Aim for the policy to be jointly agreed, monitored and evaluated and signed off with a review date. • The policy should be clearly dated and state any necessary operative dates, timing of review etc. • Consider how you will consult with / inform your staff about the proposed changes