PUBLICATION OF NEW STANDARD

Department of Health – Information Accreditation SchemeStandard (October 2007)

As part of the continuing development of the Department of Health – Information Accreditation Scheme (Version 5 October 2007), UKAS are now inviting applications from certification bodies wishing to offer certification for this activity. The standard can be accessed via the Department of Health website at:

www.dh.gov.uk/accreditation

In consultation with DoH, UKAS will be operating a pilot assessment programme for this new area of certification. Applicants will be considered for suitability for a pilot assessment programme.  Admission to the pilot programme will be limited to a maximum of five organisations, and these organisations will be assessed on their ability to demonstrate a readiness to progress with the assessment programme, and to meet the strict deadlines that will be in place to achieve accreditation grants by the end of pilot timeframe for end July 2009. A ‘first come, first served’ basis will be applied where more than five suitable applicants express aninterest.  

Applications must be completed on an AC1 form, available from the UKAS website and must be returned to the UKAS office to Ms Sue Mitchell (sue.mitchell@ukas.com), along with fees where necessary and copies of the pertinent quality documentation. The closing date for consideration to be a pilot participant certification body is 18 September 2008.

Further information is also available from the Department of Health website or by sending an email to: info@ukas.com (attention Pamela Beha)