Policy Review and Gap Analysis

Already have an existing policy? Do you know how old it is? If not, then maybe its time to get it reviewed and updated to fill any gaps that may be missing.

We base our reviews, gleaned from 25 years of research and writing on the topic of abuse prevention and vulnerable sector protection, our experience consulting with 12,500 organizations in Canada, the expertise of team and our Advisory Council that represent subject matter experts in the legal, insurance, and child protection arenas.

When we review policies, we are looking for the following components:

1. 1) The strength and clarity of your written policies, commitment to protection of children, and those that work them, including safeguards and established parameters;
2. 2) The definition of abuse, the organization’s values, and commitment to protection (physical, sexual, emotional, neglect, appropriate touch, discrimination, harassment and bullying);
3. 3) A comprehensive recruitment and screening process for volunteers and staff;
4. 4) The stated requirement of training for volunteers and staff prior to placing individuals in a position of trust, and on an on-going basis;
5. 5) Identification of risk of programs, facilities and activities; and how risk is mitigated, managed and shared (with parents and insurance companies);
6. 6) The extent of the organization procedures including retention of documentation of information; and
7. 7) How reports of allegations and suspicions of abuse are handled and responded to.

"I am very excited for Clarke Schools for Hearing and Speech to have this policy that will be in place moving forward. For a school that has not had something so detailed and informative for staff and families, I am looking forward to having something so important finally documented and having a plan specific for our campuses which will be keeping staff and students safe."

   ~ K. Flaherty, Clarke Schools for Hearing and Speech

As we begin the process, we start with an initial meeting with you to gain a greater understanding of your governance structure, any insurance requirements, the vulnerable sector that you serve, and your programs and initiatives. We do this so that as we review your policies and procedures, we are taking into consideration your unique context, requirements, legislation, and standard and duty of care.

Once reviewed we would deliver a report on the strengths, opportunities, weaknesses, and threats of the policies. Per your request, we would also provide recommendations to strength the policies and suggested wording.

Upon submission of the report, we would have a final meeting with you to discuss our findings and determine next steps if any.

Request a Quote