Policy development process

• 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.

Read materials relating to define the problem at its root causes.

• 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.

Read materials relating to develop a long-term vision for the future.

• 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

Read materials relating to identify and develop options.

• 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.

• 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

Read materials relating to implementing the policy.

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

• Did the intended outcomes and impacts occur?
• Are there any outcomes and impacts that can be attributed to the policy?
• Were there any unintended consequences?

Read materials relating to evaluate success.