Policy development process

How to use the WHESP to inform successful development and change

Step 1: Define the problem and its root causes

Clarify and frame the problem or issue in terms of the effect it has on population health.
Collect, summarise and interpret information relevant to the problem.
Define the characteristics of the problem.
Identify gaps in the data.
Frame the problem in a way that lends itself to potential solutions.
Make connections and integrate with other, non-health impacts.
Engage with those with a vested interest in the problem.

Step 2: Develop a long-term vision for the future

Develop (or refer to) a long term vision, in which the problem in question and its root causes are solved.
Consider what the long-term trends are that can be impacted by or impact your vision.
Think about the outcomes you want to achieve and what success looks like/how you can measure it.
Consider whether there are other visions of the future that can support or clash with yours.
Refer to the vision for Wales in the shape of the 7 well-being goals.
Undertake the appropriate impact assessments/HIA.
Build relationships, repeat your message and ask questions.

Step 3: Identify and develop options

Identifying potential policy options that could address your problem and help achieve your vision and that of Wales.
Comparing those options to chose the most effective, efficient and feasible one which helps unlock cross-cutting benefits.
Setting objectives, identifying the cost and estimating the effect of solutions, choosing from different policy options.
Consultations are a key tool for informing policy development.
Developing relationships with policy-makers and other stakeholders.
Mobilising partners and building a movement around the issue so the message is heard loud and clear.
Examples of areas where similar policies have been delivered – lessons learned either way

Step 4: ‘Political’ decision making (political enactment, getting legislation passed)

Educate parliamentarians and the public and accumulate support.
Anticipate roadblocks.
If needed, continue to collect data and research.
Collaborate with partners, who can ‘lobby’ and build a movement around the issue (e.g. voluntary sector and commissioners).
Storytelling.

Step 5: Implement the policy (concept to reality)

Activities to increase the likelihood that the policy will achieve its intended outcomes.
Educating on changes, facilitating adoption of new practices.
Ensuring monitoring and enforcement

Step 6: Evaluate success and terminate, redefine or deploy appropriately

Process evaluation.

Was the policy implemented as planned?
Were there barriers or supportive factors to its implementation?
How well did you engage stakeholders, and did they feel included in the process?

Impact evaluation