Roles and Responsibilities

Clear roles and responsibilities are essential for effective governance. They ensure that everyone understands their part in decision‑making, compliance, and organisational accountability. When responsibilities are defined and communicated, work becomes more consistent, transparent, and aligned with organisational priorities.

Governance is not the job of one team — it is a shared responsibility across the whole organisation.

Organisational Responsibilities

At the highest level, the organisation is responsible for:

• Setting strategic direction

• Establishing policies, standards, and frameworks

• Ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements

• Providing clear governance structures and decision‑making routes

• Monitoring performance and risk

• Ensuring transparency and accountability

These responsibilities create the foundation for safe, ethical, and effective practice.

Leadership Responsibilities

Leaders at all levels play a critical role in governance. They are responsible for:

• Making informed and transparent decisions

• Ensuring their teams understand relevant policies and standards

• Managing risk within their area of responsibility

• Escalating issues appropriately

• Supporting staff to follow governance processes

• Ensuring documentation is accurate and up to date

Leaders model the behaviours that support strong governance.

Manager Responsibilities

Managers ensure that governance is applied consistently in day‑to‑day operations. They are responsible for:

• Communicating policies and procedures to their teams

• Ensuring staff understand their responsibilities

• Monitoring compliance and addressing gaps

• Supporting staff with decision‑making

• Maintaining accurate records and documentation

• Escalating risks or concerns through the correct routes

Managers are the link between organisational governance and frontline practice.

Staff Responsibilities

Every member of staff contributes to good governance. Staff are responsible for:

• Following policies, procedures, and standards

• Making decisions within their delegated authority

• Seeking guidance when unsure

• Reporting risks, issues, or concerns

• Maintaining accurate records

• Acting with integrity and professionalism

Governance works when everyone understands their role and plays their part.

Governance Support Roles

Some teams have specialist responsibilities, including:

• Governance teams – maintaining frameworks, supporting decision‑making, ensuring compliance

• Risk and assurance teams – monitoring risk, conducting audits, providing assurance

• Policy teams – drafting, reviewing, and updating policies and standards

• Legal and compliance teams – ensuring alignment with legislation and regulatory requirements

These roles provide expertise and support across the organisation.