The programme works in partnership with projects over 12 months offering:

1. In-project, on-site support and assessment in four stages:

   A one day initial site visit to introduce the programme and develop a tailored programme plan for each service. This visit is primarily to get to know each other better so that we can start talking about the issues you face within your service and in your local area. This first visit will also help CAADA to identify what is working well already so that we can focus our support on any areas the manager has highlighted as needing improvement to receive a Leading Light award.

   A second visit to discuss progress and offer coaching in those aspects the service needs additional support on.  From our discussions with many services we realised everyone had aspects of their service they wanted to improve. This on-site visit is a chance to dig deeper into any problem areas.

   A third on-site visit to finalise the evidence necessary to go forward to the assessment panel. By this point you will hopefully be well on track to meeting the Leading Lights criteria, however, collating all the necessary evidence is vital for receiving the full award. We will work with you to help make sure that this part of the process is as straightforward as possible.

   A fourth visit of two days carried out by two assessors who will conduct a formal assessment of the project and either recommend the project for accreditation to the formal assessment panel or identify additional areas that need attention before the project goes forward for accreditation.

2. Dedicated training for managers in two stages:

   Initial training on how to manage change in your service and on developing a useful and practical change plan. This will be supported by training on the governance and finance frameworks within which successful change can take place. We believe that training sessions with other managers are valuable in providing time for reflection as well as the chance to work through fundamental issues with other professionals.

   A second block of training later in the year covering good practice in human resources and multi-agency working. As success in these areas requires good negotiation skills and often requires a wealth of experience, we expect these training days to be enriched by the opportunity to both learn from and share experiences with colleagues from different projects.

3. Telephone and email support throughout the period your programme is in operation. CAADA will work alongside your service through the preparation period to make sure you feel supported in reaching Leading Light status.  You will be appointed a named support person whom you can call or email at any time, either for help or simply to discuss your ideas.
   
   
4. A final formal panel day at the end of which your project, if successful, will be awarded  ‘CAADA Leading Light’ status. The panel will be made up of sector professionals and over time will be comprised from a rotating list of managers of projects with current Leading Light status.  We hope that the independent panel will reinforce the authenticity of your achievement.
   
   
5. Materials to help you reach Leading Light status:  in particular, a sample policies manual and a guidebook to take you through the process.