What's the difference between the law versus policy?
It’s also important to understand the difference between law and policy: these things are not the same.
A law is a set of rules Parliament makes that must be followed. For example, the Children and Families Act 2014 is a law. Understanding the distinction between law and policy is important because they are not the same.
A policy may be backed by specific legislation but can never supersede the law. It can also be a set of rules adopted by an organisation. A local authority or an Integrated Care Board can establish a local policy outlining how it will fulfil its legal obligations (such as a local SEND policy). Still, it cannot create a policy that conflicts with or supersedes the law.
It is imperative that no public body is exempt from the law. Mistakes and poor decisions are a part of human nature. It is vital that every individual child, young person, and family has the means to challenge public authorities when they get things wrong.
SET-CAMHS Complaints – The Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) offers confidential advice, support and information on health-related matters. Email: [email protected]
