The QAF Refresh
Scoring FAQs
Is there an electronic version of the QAF Available
Staffordshire Joint Commissioning unit has developed an electronic QAF, which is currently being used in the West Midlands. Staffordshire have kindly stated that it free to used and shared. Please find the link to it below.
Staffordshire Joint Commissioning Unit Electronic QAF
Is the scoring cumulative, e.g. do you have to score level C and B before you score level A
In order to score an A grade, you need to demonstrate that you have met the minimum standards at level C, and can demonstrate that your service takes in level B requirements and level A.
How useful is an overall score?
The scoring allows services and contracts teams to assess areas for improvement and to give an idea of where the service is. Using the scoring system is non mandatory.
How will you ensure that there is consistency in scoring levels A, B and C?
The implementation of the QAF is non mandatory; authorities may choose to use it differently. However, page 5 of the guidance (link) provides a list of bullet points which demonstrate level A, B and C level services. These should be used by contracts teams and providers to establish the level of the service.
Some authorities will only review one objective at a time, will they provide an overall service score?
The scoring sheet allows an overall score for each objective which culminates in an overall service score if all objectives are scored.
How will the evidence examples at levels A and B be used?
The examples on the QAF Core Objectives (link) form provide some examples. However they are only designed to be examples: If a provider carried out the examples they can be used, however the examples are not designed to be a checklist, therefore, other examples can also be used.
Is there any guidance for cross-authority working?
There is no guidance available.
However, there are examples of areas that are looking to have a cross-authority recognition of QAF levels. Check with your local authorities to see whether they are doing this.
How should evidence be submitted?
The Word form can be used to enter narrative concerning the standard. To demonstrate meeting standard A or B refer to the bullet points on page 5 of the guidance and assess whether the service meets these requirements.
The Excel form should be used to submit scores.
Is there any guidance on what questions to ask clients and staff to validate against the QAF Refresh
Where the QAF states: Staff confirm or Clients confirm? - Administering Authorities, should develop questions in relation to the desk top evidence submitted. More detailed suggestions are provided in the following document.
Will there be client / service specific guidance?
Sitra are building up guidance surrounding good practice for submitting evidence.
How will Sitra consult regarding updates?
Sitra will approach members in regards to updates and welcomes any comments from providers or commissioners.
