What is the purpose of policy in community services in other words, why do we need policy?

Question

What is the purpose of policy in community services in other words, why do we need policy?

Answer 1

Policies are like the rules of a game. Everyone plays by the same rules, and it's fair to everyone. Some policies are drawn up by lawyers, to avoid litigation. For instance, it is the policy of McDonald's to warn you that your cup of coffee is hot. If you are not warned, you might sue them when it burns you.

In community services, a policy could be for accountability. For instance, we will help you with your electric bill for two months of the year only, while you are going through this crisis. If you come back on month 3, we'll tell you no, sorry. This prevents people from imagining all sorts of stories just to get free electric. The community service agency would be paying some people's electric every month, which is unfair to many. It is designed to be temporary help, but to encourage people to change their situation, not just beg.