Policy Template
This template should be used for all new MoJ Digital, Data and Science policies to ensure consistency and compliance with MoJ governance requirements.
[Policy Name]
Classification: OFFICIAL
Policy Details
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Policy Identifier | [Add policy identifier] |
| Policy Owner | [Add policy owner] |
| Policy Sponsor | [Add policy sponsor] |
| Date Created | [Add date] |
| Date Last Reviewed | [Add date] |
| Date of Next Review | [Add date] |
| Expiry | When rescinded or replaced |
| Version | [Add version number] |
Purpose
Brief explanation of why the policy exists, including the problem it seeks to address and the outcomes it aims to achieve. Explain how the policy supports organisational objectives, compliance requirements and the effective and responsible use of digital and data services.
Scope
Define what the policy applies to, including the business areas, teams, processes, technologies, information types and individuals within its remit. Also specify what is excluded from scope to avoid ambiguity or misinterpretation.
Policy Statements
Describe the mandatory principles, standards and rules that must be followed. These statements should provide clear direction on what individuals must do to comply with relevant legislation, regulatory obligations, professional standards and other internal Ministry of Justice (MoJ) policies and frameworks.
They should be precise, actionable and aligned with the MoJ’s governance and assurance structures.
Principles
MoJ policies and operating procedures must provide a clear risk-based approach, providing clear, purpose driven and proportionate direction setting out how the MoJ will operate.
[Add specific principles for this policy]
Roles and Responsibilities
Describe and list the responsibilities assigned to specific roles, teams or governance bodies to ensure the effective implementation, oversight and management of the policy.
| Role/Team | Responsibilities |
|---|---|
| [Role/Team Name] | [Add responsibilities] |
Policy Reviewers
[Define roles/teams] will be responsible for reviewing the content of this policy annually, and any ad hoc reviews, to ensure it remains accurate and fit for purpose.
Digital Standards Team
The Digital Standards Team is responsible for managing this template. Direct any requests for changes to the policy template to DigitalStandards@justice.gov.uk
Monitoring and Compliance
Explain how adherence to the policy will be monitored, measured and reported. Examples include:
- Periodic reviews
- Audits
- Performance indicators
- Self-assessments
- Automated checks
Specify who is responsible for monitoring compliance and how any findings will be acted upon or escalated.
Exceptions
Any deviations from this policy must be formally approved by the Senior Responsible Owner (SRO). Applications to deviate from the policy must be documented and subject to risk assessment.
Breach of Policy
Policy must be adhered to, and any breaches may result in steps being taken under the MoJ Performance Management Policy.
Related Policies and Guidance
The following policies, standards, frameworks, processes, procedures and guidance support this policy:
- [Add relevant supporting documentation with links]
- [Add external references if applicable]
Review and Update
Annual Policy Review
This policy must be reviewed on an annual basis. Reviews must be conducted by the policy reviewers defined in Roles and Responsibilities, and approved by the policy owner before publication.
Template Review
The policy template will be reviewed annually. The review will be conducted by the Digital Standards Team and approved by the Head of Digital Compliance.
Questions or Feedback?
If you have any questions about this policy or the template, please contact:
Email: DigitalStandards@justice.gov.uk
Slack: [standards-team channel]