Why use a consultant review?
There are several reasons you might want to explore a consultant review: a gap has been spotted in an internal audit or review; an OIA complaint has gone further than expected and something needs to change; an OfS registration or review is on the horizon; or there is a growing sense that policy and practice have drifted apart and the institution wants an independent assessment to sense-check the current approach.
With 20+ years in HE, a decade in student casework, and five years conducting serious and sensitive investigations, I have a clear sense of what good practice looks like and where the gaps tend to appear. I was a member of the OIA steering group that developed the Good Practice Framework section on harassment and sexual misconduct, which means I understand not just what the frameworks say, but how they are applied in practice and what the OIA will look for when things go to review. I have contributed to policy reviews and rewrites including academic appeals, Freedom of Speech frameworks, and Dignity and Respect policies and procedures.
My knowledge and experience inform every review I carry out. The three tiers below are designed to suit different institutional needs and starting points.
Reviews cover:
- Investigation policies and procedures (harassment, hate, sexual misconduct)
- Student conduct and disciplinary frameworks
- Academic appeals and complaints procedures
- Casework handling practices
- Compliance with the OIA Good Practice Framework and OfS E6
Tier One: Policy
A focused desk-based review of one or more of your institution’s policies or procedures, assessed against the relevant regulatory frameworks (OIA Good Practice Framework, OfS conditions of registration, and any applicable freedom of speech guidance). You’ll receive a written report with a clear summary of findings and prioritised recommendations.
Best for: Institutions wanting a focused, cost-effective review of a specific policy area.
Tier Two: Policy and practice
Everything included in Tier One plus a series of conversations with relevant staff to understand how policy translates into practice. This deeper approach often surfaces gaps that a document review alone can’t identify and leads to more meaningful and actionable recommendations. You’ll receive a written report covering both policy and practice, with prioritised recommendations and suggested next steps.
Best for: Institutions wanting a fuller picture of how their processes are working in reality.
Tier Three: Comprehensive health check
A thorough review of your institution’s end-to-end approach to investigations, disciplinary processes, appeals, and complaints, assessed against all relevant frameworks. This is suitable for institutions wanting reassurance ahead of an OfS review, following an upheld OIA complaint, or as part of a broader programme of improvement. You’ll receive a comprehensive written report with a prioritised action plan, and I’m happy to discuss follow-up support as needed.
Best for: Institutions wanting a full and detailed picture across multiple policy and practice areas.
Why independent review matters
It can be difficult to critically evaluate your own processes from the inside, particularly when those involved in developing and delivering them are close to the work. An independent review brings a fresh perspective, grounded in practical experience of what works well and what creates risk.
Get in touch
Every institution is different, and I’m happy to talk through what kind of review might be most useful for you before any commitment is made. Please contact me with a brief outline of your needs and I’ll get back to you promptly to arrange a no-obligation conversation.