Policies

This Complaints Policy outlines how anyone using or trying to use our services can tell us if they are unhappy about the standard of our service or the fact that we have not provided a service. Anyone directly affected, or anyone acting directly on such a person’s behalf (such as a carer or relative) may make a complaint under this policy. 

This policy advises on what level of DBS check should be carried out for volunteers, employees and any applicants, dependent on their role at Healthwatch.

The policy covers the environmental aspects that we have legal and regulatory responsibilities for. We recognise that we have has a responsibility to the environment beyond legal and regulatory requirements. We are committed to reducing our environmental impact and continually improving our environmental performance as an integral part of our business strategy and operating methods.

Equality means everyone is treated the same exact way, regardless of need or any other individual difference. Equity means everyone is provided with what they need to succeed. Equity, diversity, and inclusion are at the heart of Healthwatch Brighton and Hove’s values. 

Healthwatch recognises the diversity of the population it serves and takes seriously the obligation to reach and include a diversity of people, and to ensure its credibility within a diversity of communities.  We are committed to policy, procedure and practice that recognises and respects the identity, rights, abilities and needs of everyone, and actively opposes all forms of unfair discrimination.

Our board of directors meet on a regular basis, and unless otherwise stated, members of the public and press are welcome to attend. Although we aim to make all board meetings open to the public, there may be times when there is need for privacy to discuss internal employees, finance, or HR matters. When this is necessary, the board meeting will be held in two parts - an 'open' and a 'closed' session.

This policy outlines good governance process of holding a board meeting where members of the public will be present. 

This policy covers all employees and volunteers whose work involves direct contact with adults and which all employees and volunteers are expected to follow. It differs from children’s safeguarding as the legislation is different. 

This policy covers all employees and volunteers whose work involves any contact with children or young people and which all employees and volunteers are expected to follow. It differs from adult safeguarding as the legislation is different.

We are committed to being open, honest, and accountable. We encourage a free and open culture within our organisation. This policy aims to help employees raise any serious concerns they may have about colleagues or their employer with confidence and without having to worry about being victimised, discriminated against, or disadvantaged in any way as a result. 

This policy is also intended to support employees of health and care providers who may want to contact an independent organisation to speak out about concerns they may have in the workplace affecting patients and people receiving care.