At BrisDoc, we recognise that welcoming and supporting new co-owners effectively is essential to delivering safe, high-quality patient care and maintaining a respectful, inclusive working environment.
Starting a new role can involve learning, adjustment and challenge. Most issues that arise during probation are likely to relate to unfamiliarity with systems, expectations, standards, ways of working or role requirements, rather than any lack of commitment or intent. BrisDoc’s approach to probation is therefore supportive, developmental and fair.
Probation provides a structured period in which BrisDoc and the co-owner can assess whether the role is the right fit, whether the required standards are being met, and whether any additional support, training or adjustment is needed. It also enables BrisDoc to ensure that co-owners are able to work safely, reliably and effectively in line with the needs of patients, colleagues, services and the organisation.
This policy sets out a clear and consistent framework for managing probation periods in a fair, transparent and lawful way. Wherever possible, issues should be addressed early through guidance, feedback, coaching, training and appropriate support. Decisions relating to confirmation, extension or unsuccessful completion of probation should be based on evidence gathered throughout the probation period and should not come as a surprise to the co-owner.
This policy should be read alongside BrisDoc’s Disciplinary Policy, Sickness and Wellbeing Policy, Capability Policy or guidance where applicable, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion commitments, Reasonable Adjustments guidance and relevant contractual terms.