Policy guidelines

The word "policy" can cause anxiety and promote questions such as 'Why do we need a policy?" and  'Where do I start?" There is no right way to present a policy document and each organisation will have its own procedures. Rather than re-invent the wheel, listed below are organisations, policies and templates that can assist you on your journey. We know that many creative spaces have their own policies and guidelines,  so email Kate Hiatt, kate.hiatt@artsaccess.org.nz with suggestions, or templates you would like to include. 

Organisations and policies

Disability Toolkit for Policy

All policy is disability policy. Every policy and service decision should be considered an opportunity to create a place where disabled people have an equal opportunity to achieve their goals and aspirations. The Office for Disability Issues has developed a tool to help policy-makers consider the implications of their policies for disabled people and help decision-makers consider issues through a disability lens. Visit the Office for Disability Issues website

Atamira Platform

Atamira Platform works with non-governmental organisations (NGO) and community services that support people and their whānau directly impacted by mental health and addiction. To support NGOs it has a policy library with a range of templates that can be downloaded and adapted to suit an organisation's needs. Visit the policy library page.

CommunityNet Aotearoa

Policies are the guiding principles by which an organisation is run. They set out a group's kaupapa and tikanga (the core values and principles), and the processes by which the group operates. CommunityNet Aotearoa's website has information about developing policy using a tikanga framework. There are also checklists and essential policies, including some templates. 

Not-for-Profit Resource NZ

Why would you bother reviewing your policies?” Nonprofit organisations (NFPs) in New Zealand should have their policies reviewed for several reasons, including:

• Compliance: NFPs must comply with various laws and regulations, such as the Charities Act 2005 and the Privacy Act 1993. Having policies reviewed ensures that they are in compliance with these laws and regulations.
• Governance: Reviewing policies helps NFPs ensure that they have effective governance systems in place. This includes ensuring that the organisation is run in a transparent and accountable manner, and that its operations align with its mission and values.
• Efficiency: Reviewing policies can help NFPs identify areas where they can improve their efficiency and effectiveness. This can include streamlining processes, reducing costs, and increasing transparency.
• Risk management: Reviewing policies can help NFPs identify and mitigate potential risks to their operations. This can include risks related to financial management, data protection, and legal compliance.
• Adaptation to change: Reviewing policies can help NFPs adapt to changes in their environment and stay relevant in their field.
  

NFP Resource is an independent resource dedicated to the NZ non-profit sector. 

Policy templates

Below are some policy templates that can be modified to suit your organisation's needs. We'd love to include more, particularly those relevant to creative spaces, contact Kate with any suggestions.

Basic policy template.docx (Word, 14KB)

Diversity and inclusion at work template (Word, 337 KB )

Staff Recruitment template (Word, 103 KB)

Koha-Donations template.docx (Word, 102 KB)

Volunteer policy and procedures.docx (Word, 17KB)