What is the primary purpose of policies in an organization?

The primary purpose of policies in an organization is to provide guidance to staff and to protect those supported from harm. Policies establish a framework within which employees can operate, ensuring that everyone understands the organization's goals, procedures, and expectations. This consistent guidance helps create a safe and effective working environment.

By providing clear direction, policies empower staff to make informed decisions in line with the organization's objectives. Simultaneously, they are designed to protect individuals involved, whether they are employees, clients, or the community at large, from any potential risks or harm. This dual focus on guidance and protection is vital for maintaining organizational integrity and promoting a respectful and secure atmosphere.

While the intention behind policies may include preventing accidents, it is not feasible to guarantee that accidents will never occur. Thus, the focus on guidance and protection captures the essential role of policies in supporting both staff and those they serve.