{{org_field_logo}}

{{org_field_name}}

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

---

Good Governance Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to establish robust governance structures and accountability mechanisms that ensure transparent, ethical, and high-quality service delivery at {{org_field_name}}. Good governance is essential for maintaining compliance with Care Inspectorate Scotland regulations, Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) Codes of Practice, and Health and Social Care Standards (Scotland). This policy ensures that our decision-making, risk management, financial oversight, and service provision are conducted with integrity and efficiency.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all employees, board members, management, and key stakeholders within {{org_field_name}}. It covers:

• Leadership and decision-making responsibilities.
• Regulatory compliance and accountability.
• Risk management and safeguarding.
• Financial oversight and transparency.
• Quality assurance and continuous improvement.
• Stakeholder engagement and feedback mechanisms.

3. Related Policies

• Risk Assessment and Management Policy
• Safeguarding Adults and Children Policy
• Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Policy
• Complaints and Feedback Policy
• Financial Management Policy
• Data Protection and Confidentiality Policy

4. Legal and Regulatory Compliance

{{org_field_name}} ensures compliance with the following legal and regulatory frameworks:

• Care Inspectorate Scotland Regulations – Ensuring high standards in care provision.
• Health and Social Care Standards (Scotland) 2018 – Promoting dignity, respect, and wellbeing.
• Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) Codes of Practice – Establishing professional conduct expectations.
• General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) – Ensuring compliance with data protection laws.

5. Leadership and Decision-Making

5.1. Role of the Leadership Team

The senior leadership team at {{org_field_name}} is responsible for:

• Establishing clear strategic objectives aligned with our mission and values.
• Ensuring ethical decision-making and professional integrity in all areas.
• Setting and monitoring performance targets for staff and services.
• Maintaining compliance with regulatory bodies and governance standards.
• Overseeing staff training, supervision, and development.

5.2. Governance Structures

Structure:

• Director(s)
• Registered Manager
• Care Coordinator/Deputy Manager/Admin Staff
• Care Staff
• Agency Staff (if applicable)

• A board of directors or trustees provides independent oversight of leadership decisions.
• Regular management meetings ensure clear communication and accountability.
• All governance decisions are documented and reviewed periodically.

6. Regulatory Compliance and Accountability

6.1. Compliance with Care Inspectorate Scotland

• Regular self-assessments and audits are conducted to ensure compliance.
• Annual Care Inspectorate inspections are fully prepared for and addressed.
• All regulatory requirements are communicated to staff and embedded in training.

6.2. Staff Responsibilities and Accountability

• All employees must adhere to governance policies and report non-compliance.
• Managers are responsible for policy enforcement and staff training.
• A clear escalation process exists for concerns regarding governance failures.

7. Risk Management and Safeguarding

7.1. Identifying and Mitigating Risks

{{org_field_name}} takes a proactive approach to risk management by:

• Conducting regular risk assessments across all operational areas.
• Maintaining a risk register with documented mitigation strategies.
• Ensuring staff are trained in risk awareness and incident reporting.

7.2. Safeguarding and Whistleblowing

• A Safeguarding Lead is appointed to oversee risk prevention and reporting.
• A Whistleblowing Policy protects employees who report concerns.
• Safeguarding procedures are regularly updated in line with legislation.

8. Financial Oversight and Transparency

8.1. Financial Management Practices

• All financial transactions are monitored, recorded, and audited.
• Annual budgets are reviewed and approved by the leadership team.
• Financial reports are made available to regulatory bodies and stakeholders.

8.2. Preventing Fraud and Financial Mismanagement

• Internal financial controls and audits ensure responsible financial management.
• Any suspected fraud or mismanagement is investigated immediately.
• Clear accountability measures are in place for all financial decisions.

9. Quality Assurance and Continuous Improvement

9.1. Service Evaluation and Improvement

{{org_field_name}} maintains high-quality services through:

• Regular performance reviews of staff and service delivery.
• Feedback mechanisms from people we support, families, and stakeholders.
• Action plans for continuous improvement based on audit findings.

9.2. Staff Training and Development

• Mandatory induction and refresher training for all employees.
• Ongoing professional development opportunities.
• Regular appraisals and performance feedback.

10. Stakeholder Engagement and Communication

10.1. Engaging with People We Support and Families

• People we support and their families are actively involved in care planning.
• Open communication channels exist for feedback, concerns, and suggestions.
• Regular surveys and forums allow for continuous dialogue and service improvements.

10.2. Engaging with External Partners and Regulators

• Partnerships with healthcare providers and community organisations ensure holistic care.
• Regular engagement with Care Inspectorate Scotland and SSSC to maintain compliance.
• Participation in sector-wide learning initiatives to improve governance practices.

11. Complaints and Reporting Mechanisms

• A clear and accessible Complaints Policy ensures all concerns are addressed promptly.
• Employees, people we support, and stakeholders can report issues via:
  • Directly to management.
  • Confidential whistleblowing channels.
  • Care Inspectorate Scotland complaints procedures.
• All complaints and reports are investigated in a fair and timely manner.

12. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or earlier in response to legislative changes, operational needs, or feedback from stakeholders. Any amendments will be communicated to all employees and key stakeholders.

---

Responsible Person: {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}
Reviewed on: {{last_update_date}}
Next Review Date: {{next_review_date}}
Copyright © {{current_year}} – {{org_field_name}}. All rights reserved.