Compliance with the Scheme’s Site Code of Considerate Practice indicates that a site is achieving a standard beyond statutory requirements. In each of the eight sections of the Code, it is possible to score between 1 and 5 points, with 3 indicating compliance. Half points may also be awarded in any of the sections. Sites are not only assessed for compliance with the Scheme’s Code, but also to identify any measures being taken by a site which are above and beyond these requirements. Where relevant and practical, the report may indicate where improvements can be made.

How are the points assessed?

In any section, 1 is major non-compliance, 2 is minor non-compliance, 3 is satisfactory compliance, 4 rewards measures taken in excess of compliance, 5 rewards exceptional and unique measures taken.

Frequently asked questions:

What score can I reasonably expect?
A score of 3 in any section indicates compliance with the Scheme’s Code. The average total score of all sites registered with the Scheme is consistently around 31 points. Any site scoring above this should be congratulated.

What do I need to score to win an Annual National Award?
The top scoring 10% of sites are reviewed by an independent panel and, from these, around 7.5% are selected for a National Award. The score does not automatically determine the level of Award (Gold, Silver or Bronze); other factors such as accidents, complaints and client reaction are also taken into consideration.

How can I improve my score?
The Scheme publishes a document called ‘Examples of Good Practice.  This list comprises specific examples of initiatives that Monitors have seen on sites which, at the time, warranted a score higher than 3.

What do I have to do to score 5?

• 5 points are only given where a site is doing something exceptional and unique, as well as working to a very high standard.
• A site that is doing everything to a very high standard will only warrant 4.5.
• There is no measure which will automatically score a 5 in any one section.

The Scheme runs Seminars and Workshops offering an introduction to the Scheme and guidelines on how to perform beyond the basic requirements.

Click here for further information about these training events