Guideline 22. Communication

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 07/10/2018 - 09:46

A system of effective communication among all stakeholders and partners facilitates the seamless, timely return to work. There is an effective strategy for exchanging facts, thoughts and ideas in an open and respectful manner. The flow of oral and written information complies with relevant legislation such as privacy law.

Guideline code

RTW_03100

Mechanism

The return-to-work and/or communications professional should work with internal and external stakeholders to assess the communication needs of the return-to-work programme, the person concerned and other stakeholders.
The return-to-work and/or communications professional should ensure that communication materials and information are in plain language and accessible formats.
The return-to-work and/or communications professional should implement the communications policy by developing communication materials and specific campaigns to meet the information needs of the major stakeholders, using tools such as printed resources, the internet, email and events such as seminars and training sessions, and appointing a spokesperson.
The return-to-work and/or communications professional should ensure that forms of communication maintain consistency in aesthetic appearance, language style and tone, and message.
The return-to-work and/or communications professional should ensure that all communication with and among stakeholders is undertaken in an open and respectful manner.
The return-to-work and/or communications professional should provide opportunities for all stakeholders, including the employer and the person concerned, to provide input to and feedback on the return-to-work programme.
The return-to-work and/or communications professional should ensure that communications service agreements adhere to the communication policy, reflect the needs of the person concerned, are documented, and are understood and signed by all parties.

Parent

B. Specific Return-to-work Principles and Guidelines

Structure

The management should collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to develop a policy on effective communication with all stakeholders which includes specific objectives.
The management should ensure that appropriate communication tools are selected, in accordance with the strategic goals of the return-to-work programme, the objectives of the communications programme, the profile of the target audience and the communication budget.
The management should consider establishing communication systems which are compatible with those of major stakeholders, partners and service providers.
The management should delegate implementation of the communications policy to qualified professionals such as the return-to-work and/or communications professional and provide appropriate support and resources for implementation, including funding if necessary.

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