Governance is the system by which an organisation directs and controls its functions and relates to its stakeholders, from the way an organisation manages its business, determining strategy and objectives and the processes to be taken to achieve its outlined objectives. Good governance is imperative to ensure the smooth running of an organisation, and ensures that the behaviour of the board follows the well-led agenda and is in compliance with sector regulations. By “well-led” agenda, we mean that the leadership, management and governance of the organisation ensure the delivery of sustainable high quality care, support learning and promote a fair culture.
The role of the board is to set strategy, lead the organisation and oversee operations, and to be accountable to stakeholders in an open and effective manner. As the factors underpinning effective governance can change, for example as people leave or the organisation restructures, regular reviews can ensure governance remains fit for purpose. In some instances, disagreements can arise due to personal differences, conflicts of interest, inappropriate conduct such as allegations of bullying or a misunderstanding of the parties’ rights and obligations.
Our team of specialist solicitors use their extensive sector knowledge and experience of working with charities and companies to advise and support health and social care providers on all aspects of governance and the well led agenda, including:
At Anthony Collins Solicitors, our experienced governance team can work with organisations to ensure that appropriate policies and procedures are in place to assist in dealing with governance disputes should they arise. Resolving governance disputes can be a complicated and delicate process dealing with sensitive situations. Failure to comply with the organisation’s policies when dealing with governance disputes could cause the dispute to escalate and poses a risk to the reputation of the organisation.
We have been working with care homes to update their contracts and advise on the risks of charging the resident a regular “top-up” or additional fee where a resident is funded through NHS CHC
On 15 July 2020, the Prime Minister committed to an Independent Inquiry into the handling of the coronavirus pandemic.
It was announced by the Government on 16 July 2020 that the implementation of Liberty Protection Safeguards (LPS) has been delayed until April 2022. No date has been set, with April 2022 being described as the “aim for full implementation”.
The Health and Safety Executive’s latest guidance reminds organisations that they must endeavour to maintain the safety of the lifting equipment under their control throughout the pandemic.
In December 2019, the Care Quality Commission brought its first prosecution against a local authority
The recent £1.5 million fine imposed on BUPA Care Homes, following the death of a resident from Legionaries disease, demonstrates the increased risk of substantial fines and emphasises the need for organisations within the sector to ensure compliance with their health and safety obligations.
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