Risk Assessment June 2016
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1. Definition of Risk Management
Risk is the chance or possibility of loss, damage, injury or failure to achieve objectives caused by an unwanted or uncertain action or event. Risk management is the planned and systematic approach to the identification, evaluation and economic control of those risks which can threaten the assets or financial and organisational well-being of an organisation.
2. Policy Statement
Penkridge Parish Council recognises that it has a responsibility to manage risks effectively in order to protect its employees, assets, liabilities and community against potential losses, to minimise uncertainty in achieving its goals and objectives and to maximise the opportunities to achieve its vision.
The Council is aware that some risks can never be eliminated fully and it has in place a strategy that provides a structured, systematic and focussed approach to managing risk.
Risk management is an integral part of the Council’s management processes.
3. Objectives
The objectives of the Council’s risk management strategy are to:-
Integrate risk management into the culture of the council
Manage risk in accordance with best practice
Anticipate and respond to changing social, environmental and legislative requirements
Prevent loss, disruption, damage and injury and reduce the cost of risk, thereby maximising resources
To inform policy and operational decisions by identifying risks and their likely impact
Raise awareness of the need for risk management.
These objectives will be achieved by:
Establishing clear roles, responsibilities and reporting lines within the council for risk management
Providing opportunities for shared learning on risk management across the council.
Providing risk management training and awareness sessions
Incorporating risk management considerations into the Council’s management processes eg project management
Effective communication with, and the active involvement of, employees
Monitoring arrangements on an on-going basis
Risk Assessment June 2016
Page 2 of 2
4. Responsibility for Risk Management
The Council recognises that it is the responsibility of all Councillors and employees to have regard for risk in carrying out their duties. If uncontrolled, risk can result in a drain on resources that could better be directed to front line service provision, and to the meeting of the Council’s objectives and community needs.
This policy has the full support of the Council which recognises that any reduction in injury, illness, loss or damage benefits the whole community. The co-operation and commitment of all employees is required to ensure that Council resources are not squandered as a result of uncontrolled risk.
