ABSTRACT
Policies should reflect the ethos, values and work practice culture of a service;
they are also a useful tool to guide the ethos, values and work practice culture of
each employee. Policies can be used to influence change in work practice by giving
structure and guidance to ensure consistency of work practice throughout a service.
Policies are often based on legislation and best practice recommendations and they
reflect the moral and ethical stance of how we should work with people with learning
disabilities. Procedures within policies are used to inform daily practice. They should
be written carefully, so that they do not restrict innovation, diversity and individual
