It’s important that people who are investigating and making decisions about concerns have no biases or conflicts of interest. Wherever possible, they should have no involvement with the team, events or concerns under investigation.
For example, consider whether the lead person(s) investigating the concerns has previously worked with the professional, and the impact that might have on their objectivity, and on the staff member involved.
If prior involvement or possible conflicts can’t be avoided, it’s good practice to declare them in advance and make sure they’re stated in the investigation report.
Investigators will need to be experienced and skilled in classifying, evaluating and weighing evidence objectively. They should be able to take a range of factors into account, including equality, diversity and inclusion. Training will help to ensure that an investigator is competent and confident in their fact finding and analysis.
Good investigators ask appropriate non-leading questions. They know how to handle sensitive issues and topics, treating people with dignity and respect at all times.
You may want to consider how to balance the protected time for investigations against demands on services and the impact on other colleagues.
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